The triangular vents and oversized grille of the old front bumper are gone

Ford Focus

The popular Ford Focus has just received a thorough overhaul. The triangular vents and oversized grille of the old front bumper are gone, as are the rounded headlights, replaced by a much sleeker nose design. At the rear, again the lights are slimmer, while a new bumper makes the car appear wider. There
are a couple of new colours to choose from, as well as some upmarket new alloy wheel designs

Inside, the number of buttons on the dashboard has been drastically reduced, to make things much less complicated. Cabin quality has also improved
thanks to the use of better materials, while new on-board technology includes Ford’s latest SYNC 2 connected infotainment system.

New engine choices include a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol and an efficient 1.5-litre turbodiesel, while the suspension and steering systems have been retuned to help ensure the Focus remains the class benchmark when it comes to ride quality and driver enjoyment.

In late 2014, the revised Focus will be joined by a Focus ST hot hatch. Diesel power will be offered for the first time in this car, with the ST-TD getting a 182bhp 2.0 TDCi, for 0-62mph in eight seconds or so. That’s 1bhp more than a VW Golf GTD, but half-a-second slower. Ford has also confirmed 114g/km emissions – 5g/km more than the VW. The new petrol ST promises better economy, while both cars get sharper responses and beefed-up looks.

Price: £14,500
On sale: TBC