Ford Focus review: after 25 years it still impresses

As it approaches its 25th birthday, the Ford Focus has been treated to a mid-life update involving subtle changes to the styling, a huge boost to the in-car tech and a new power train line-up, said Auto Express. It remains fun and engaging to drive, with sharp steering, keen handling and plenty of grip. It’s a little firmer over bumps than some of its rivals, and it can be a bit noisy at higher speeds, but overall it still impresses.

There are a bewildering 33 models in the Focus range, said The Daily Telegraph, including an economical 1.5-litre diesel, three petrol options all with 1.0-litre engines, a 123bhp non-hybrid and a 153bhp model both available in manual and automatic iterations. Most versions now have the cheaper twist-beam rear suspension that feels less mobile, but the Focus remains just as exciting as other cars in its class, if not more so.

All but the base-spec Trend trim get a giant 13.2in infotainment system for navigation, media and phone connectivity, said Top Gear. It is responsive and has good graphics, though some might miss having proper buttons for climate controls; these are now on the bottom of the screen. The front seats aren’t the most comfortable, but the rear is impressively roomy, and with the seats up the boot is a useful 375 litres. UK price from £23,500.