Thanks to AutoConnexion, the official dealer of Ford in Malaysia,I had a chance to take the Ford Focus 2.0 Sports for the weekends not long ago.
Ford Focus was the car that replaced the venerable Ford Escort (or Ford Laser in this region) about 10 years ago. The car I got was the newly face lifted 2nd generation Focus, the 2.0 Sports hatch.
At first glance, I was quite impressed with the built of the car. The doors felt solid, workmanship on the exterior pretty much flawless, and the interior too was rather refined.
After adjusting the seats (manually) and steering wheel to make myself comfortable, I noticed that the visibility of the car was very good. Very big windshield and the small A pillars gives you a very clear picture of what’s happening in front, while the bigger than usual side mirrors offer a clear rear view. The smallish center rear view mirror though, is no different from most other cars.
Meter cluster is mounted right in front of the wheel with the tachometer (red line at 6500 rpm) and speedometer sandwiching a central display and two smaller meters on top (temperature and fuel indicator).
The display is bright and pretty easy to read in both day and nighttime driving conditions, with the central display showing current fuel consumption, number of kilometers left for available fuel, outside temperature, current gear (with sequential shift), trip meter, and a few other information with the manipulation of a little control stick.
The car also comes with a 6 speed CD changer (with mp3 function) and 6 speakers that performs pretty decent for an OEM unit. There is also a steering column mounted audio control for changing radio channels, volume, track, etc.
Air conditioning performance is one of those things that is of supreme importance in this country. While this fully imported model still comes with heater, the air conditioning did not disappoint. Driver and passenger gets to control their own temperature zone, and there are also two air vents for the rear passengers.
The ride of this car was actually pretty smooth and comfortable with a very good level of noise insulation. However, the car really shines when you attack the corners with heavier foot. While the 143hp engine with it’s 4 speed auto transmission isn’t exactly in the sports car’s league, it is pretty sufficient for city driving and those occasional spirited moments.
The price? RM 116k or so for both the sedan (with leather seats) and sports hatch model.
thanks for the information. It would be great if you can post about the car spec.
As a Newbie, I am always searching online for articles that can help me on this subject. Thank you!
I just bought the Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI that runs on diesel! 1000km to 55 liters! Talk about economy. Blistering performance when the gem of an engine churns out 320Nm of mind numbing torque. This is in the league of BMW 320d that costs twice as much!! The 6 speed Powershift dual clutch is baby smooth when going through the cogs, gear shifts are seamless. This car is a keeper. I love the european design although some think that it’s a little dated. The car’s classic elegant lines speaks of quiet authority!! I had better stop here…….. LOLZ!!