New Ford Focus 2022 Review

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This mid-life update to the Focus is nothing short of impressive, but the subtle styling changes on the outside are complemented by a big push towards in-car technology. It’s still as responsive to drive as ever and has plenty of space inside. However, with many rivals offering some form of substantial electrification – be it a full EV or a plug-in hybrid – Ford’s mild-hybrid setups run the risk of leaving the Focus behind. player.

The Ford Focus Its 25th anniversary is coming up, and since the first Focus hit the road, few other models have consistently offered such a powerful all-round package in family car part.

With SUVs Stealing sales from traditional compact hatchbacks, the fourth-generation model hasn’t quite enjoyed the popularity of its predecessors, but it’s still a staple in the mix. Fordof scope. Now, the current Focus has been billed as a mid-life update that includes changes to the styling, interior and powertrain.

From the outside, it’s the user interface that has received the most important updates. The Ford logo has evolved and moved from the nose tip to the center of the redesigned grille. The two sides are new lights, thinner than before. These not only feature new LED daytime running graphics, but also fog lights, which free up space underneath for a cleaner bumper design.

Changes elsewhere are a bit more subtle, but the rear end with refreshed taillights and new alloy wheel designs. Each trim level has its own unique look, with distinct grille shapes and finishes.

The model line itself has also been revised. The former range-topping Vignale is now a more luxurious addition to the core trim: Titanium, sporty ST-Line and off-road-inspired Active, plus Trend specs entry level.

The exterior changes are mostly aesthetic, but the Focus’s cabin benefits from a comprehensive tech upgrade. At the center is a large infotainment screen running the new Sync 4 software; Ford says that the 13.2-inch screen is the largest in its class. Load times have been greatly improved, and the large icons and clear graphics make it unwieldy.

Even the on-screen heating and ventilation controls – which we often criticize in other cars for their poor usability – are among the best around. Wireless functionality is not only included Apple CarPlay and Android Autobut also allows updating over the network. All in all, the new setup transforms Focus’s in-car technology from a well-established technology into a leading company.

The impression from the back seat hasn’t really changed. Focus remains on the broad end of the segment – not on par with caves Skoda Octaviabut better than main competition like Volkswagen Golf Course and new Vauxhall Astra.

Ford’s 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine family has been further electrified in this refreshed Focus, with a new seven-speed automatic transmission now paired with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.

Here it is in its most powerful form, making 153bhp. That sounds like a lot on paper, but in practice it feels a bit underpowered when compared to similarly powered engines found in the VW Golf and Citroen C4. That’s because it reduces torque; At 190Nm, the Focus has 50Nm less than the C4 PureTech 155, and 60Nm later VW.

A diesel option remains – the 1.5-litre EcoBlue unit makes 118bhp and returns 56.5mpg claimed – but what the Focus lacks is any substantial electric assistance across the range. Mild hybrid technology means that the desired stop-start system is activated at low speeds, but when competition includes models such as full-hybrid Toyota Corollaplug-in hybrids from VW Group and Stellantis, and even all-electric options like VW ID.3 and Citroen e-C4The Focus really needs a tax-resistant powertrain to keep it competitive.

While the engine line is in need of a bigger boost, there’s nothing to do with the car’s chassis. The Focus remains one of the few everyday family cars that are fun and engaging to drive, with a responsive yet well-weighted steering wheel, and a very responsive and responsive front-end. Lots of driving feel.

You might expect an upcoming ‘but’, with this responsive handling providing ride comfort, but that’s not the case. Yes, it’s a bit stiffer on impact than some rivals, but it never feels harsh and bumps and bumps are well isolated from the cabin. It’s not quite as delicate as a Peugeot 308 in this area – and there’s a bit more wind and road noise at higher speeds – but overall, the Ford chassis still impresses.

In-vehicle safety technology is also available in 2022. Not only have the headlights been redesigned, but the optional matrix LED lighting system that has been fitted to our vehicles has Ford features. called “Dynamic Pixel” technology. This offers adaptive high beam to reduce glare for oncoming drivers, dynamic bending to direct light into corners and bad weather technology, which changes beam pattern in rainy weather to reduce glare. glare. That’s a £950 option.

Elsewhere, the Focus has optional blind-spot assist, which not only scans for vehicles but can actively steer to avoid them if necessary. This £400 surcharge can also be adjusted to account for the tow truck being towed.

Prices for the latest Focus start from £22,965 for the Trend with the 123hp 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and manual transmission. The 153bhp ST-Line Vignale version costs £28,625, but with options including LED matrix lights, paint with the modest title of ‘Fantastic Red’ (£825) and a head-up display ( £400) among others, the car here comes in at £32,225.