The Best Cars of 2011 So Far

The Best Cars of 2011 So Far

 

Ford Focus

The third generation of Ford's epochal family hatchback moves the sector on once more, leaving the compeition feeling very dated.

THE FACTS

Tested: Five-door hatchback with four-cylinder, 1,596cc turbo petrol engine. Six-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive

Price/on sale: Range starts at £15,995 (as tested £21,245)/March

Power/torque: 148bhp/177lb ft (with 199lb ft overboost)

Top speed: 130mph

Acceleration: 0-62mph in 8.6sec

Fuel economy: 36.7mpg (Urban)

CO2 emissions: 139g/km

VED band: E (£110)

On the stereo: The Boss by James Brown

Verdict: Terrific. Why can't all family hatchbacks be as good to drive as this?