Ford Focus loses points in comparison to Skoda Octavia due to lack of hybrid options and reduction in engine choices. The Ford Focus is still available with a 1.0 EcoBoost engine, but the mild-hybrid system does not offer full electric driving capabilities. Instead, it assists the engine with a 48V starter-generator, helping with starting and acceleration. The hybrid system also recovers energy and stores it in a lithium-ion battery. However, this system does not take up space in the trunk, unlike traditional hybrids or plug-in hybrids.
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine itself is praised for its performance and efficiency, but some drivers may find the driving experience to be uneven. The mild-hybrid system can be felt during acceleration and braking, which may not be appreciated by all drivers. The engine also produces a sound that resembles a diesel engine, which some may find appealing for its sporty character. However, the overall driving experience may be smoother and more comfortable with the automatic transmission option.
In terms of fuel economy, the Ford Focus can achieve a consumption rate between 5.5 and 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers with some effort. The handling of the Focus is praised, with the ST-Line X version offering a tuned suspension that performs well on uneven surfaces. The car maintains its stability and grip during cornering, providing a confident driving experience.
Inside, the Ford Focus offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. The trunk space in the hatchback version is slightly smaller than its competitor, the Skoda Octavia Combi, but still provides ample room for everyday needs. The Focus also offers a good driving position and responsive steering, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a compact car with enjoyable driving dynamics.
Overall, the Ford Focus continues to be a strong contender in the compact car segment, but it falls behind the Skoda Octavia in terms of hybrid options and engine choices. However, it still offers a capable and efficient engine, as well as a comfortable and spacious interior.Ford Focus Faces Challenges in the European Market
The need to adapt to Brussels emission regulations and focus more on electric vehicles is proving to be a challenge for Ford. After discontinuing the Mondeo and Fiesta models in Europe, Ford is now pushing for assisted suicide. The suspicious move also includes reducing the engine options for the Focus, removing the popular 1.5-liter petrol engine from the lineup, while still offering it in the Puma and Kuga models.
This decision puts the Ford Focus at a disadvantage compared to the Skoda Octavia. If you want to buy a Focus with a petrol engine, you have to choose from all the available engines, as long as it is a one-liter engine. There are two versions available, one with 92 kW (125 hp) and another with 114 kW (155 hp). You can still order a diesel engine with 85 kW (115 hp), but Ford does not offer any discounts on it, making it a whopping 177,000 CZK more expensive. The Focus is still produced in the sporty ST version with a 2.3 EcoBoost engine, but that comes at a price of over one million CZK.
The “Hybrid” badge on the rear of the Focus can be misleading. Instead of a full hybrid system that allows for fully electric driving on short distances, this model is only a mild-hybrid. In an effort to reduce emissions, a starter-generator with a 48V battery assists the engine during start-up and acceleration. The recovered energy is stored in a lithium-ion auxiliary battery, which is placed under the passenger seat, unlike traditional hybrids or plug-in hybrids that take up space in the trunk.
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine itself is very successful and has won the “Engine of the Year” award multiple times among one-liter engines. The starter-generator eliminates turbo lag, allowing Ford to equip the engine with a larger turbocharger. The performance is decent, but there is not much power reserve. The overboost function provides a short-term increase in torque from 195 to 220 Nm, and an additional 20 Nm in sport mode.
The mild-hybrid system aims to maximize energy recovery and save fuel, which can be observed in the instrument cluster. Its effect is noticeable not only during downhill driving but also during slight deceleration and braking, where the engine acts as a generator and the recovery is unnecessarily strong. This feature tarnishes the reputation of this new helper.
Unfortunately, this affects the overall driving experience, which may feel sporty to some, but the rest of the passengers may not appreciate it. In the tested model with a six-speed manual transmission, this anomaly is quite noticeable. However, the current stronger version of the one-liter engine does not include this feature, and with the seven-speed automatic transmission, the driving experience will undoubtedly be much smoother and more comfortable.
After starting the engine, you can hear its rough operation, which may remind some of the sound of a diesel engine. However, this is compensated by the fuel economy. With a little effort, it is easy to achieve a consumption of between 5.5 and 6.5 l/100 km. But if you rev the engine, it produces a nice sporty sound. By the way, in the tested model, the speaker in the passenger door was buzzing like an old worn-out Skoda.
Traction on wet surfaces is not the best with the one-liter engine. It is well-known that the engine is very light. If you are not careful with the throttle, the car tends to lose traction and skid.
However, the driving characteristics of the Focus are otherwise its traditional strong suit. It eagerly dives into corners and holds its line without hesitation. The ST-Line X version is particularly impressive due to its tuned suspension, which performs exceptionally well on large, short bumps. For those who prefer better comfort, the elevated Active X version is available at the same price. Its higher ground clearance will be appreciated by outdoor sports enthusiasts, as well as
What features contribute to the Ford Focus’ commendable handling and driving experience
Mproved fuel economy of the Ford Focus. It achieves a consumption rate between 5.5 and 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers, which is commendable for a compact car. The handling of the Focus is also highly praised, especially in the ST-Line X version with its tuned suspension that performs well on uneven surfaces. The car maintains stability and grip during cornering, providing a confident and enjoyable driving experience.
Inside the Focus, passengers will find a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for both front and rear occupants. While the trunk space in the hatchback version is slightly smaller than that of the Skoda Octavia Combi, it still offers ample room for everyday needs. The Focus also provides a good driving position and responsive steering, enhancing the overall driving dynamics.
Despite its challenges in terms of hybrid options and engine choices, the Ford Focus remains a strong contender in the compact car segment. It may not offer a full hybrid system or a wide range of engine options like the Skoda Octavia, but it still provides a capable and efficient engine, as well as a comfortable and spacious interior. With its solid performance, fuel economy, and enjoyable driving experience, the Ford Focus continues to be a viable choice for those seeking a compact car.
I test drove the Ford Focus Mild-Hybrid last week and was thoroughly impressed. The performance was smooth and fuel efficiency was excellent. It definitely gives tough competition to its rivals in terms of features and overall value for money.
I recently compared the Ford Focus Mild-Hybrid with its competitors, and I must say it definitely stood out. The performance was impressive, the features were top-notch, and it gave great value for money. Highly recommended!