Zetec S 1.6T 182 EcoBoost 5dr Hatchback

A very good family hatch back

This car was bought to replace my wife's 2006 Fiesta ST (see previous review) as a more practical proposition.

We bought the car at 4 months old with 1700 miles on the clock. The previous owner changes his car regularly and he added nearly £2,000 of extras to the car including larger wheels (really finish off the styling/bodykit), part leather seats, cruise control etc.

To drive, the car is not as sporty as the Fiesta it replaced, or my Focus ST, but it has very sharp steering, a snappy 6 speed gearbox and a good handling/ride balance.

The engine is flexible and responsive with plenty of mid-range punch for overtaking. Though not as smooth as a multi-cylinder it is smooth and quiet for an in-line 4. In my view (I own a 1.0T 100 Ecoboost Fiesta) this engine, in 150 or 182 guises is more suited to a car the size and weight of the Focus than the 1.0T Ecoboost engine is. Normal driving, including around town use and some long journeys results in a combined average MPG of circa 38 - 39. The best we have ever managed was on a trip to Sweden (longer journeys/less traffic/much better roads) where we averaged 46 MPG over circa 2,500 miles.

The car is generally very quiet, however tyre noise is noticeable and the 18 inch wheels with low profile tyres probably do not help this.

The cabin is reasonably roomy, though rear seat leg room is slightly less than my previous shape Focus. Equipment levels are good and the voice operated Ford Sync system with hands free phone system works very well. The power folding mirrors are useful, as is the heated front screen and the approach lights when the car is locked/unlocked.

The car has now done circa 21,000 miles and the only fault has been the driver's door switch pack refusing the operate the mirror adjustment; all fixed under warranty.

Overall I think this is a very good car to own and drive. It is well designed and gives a good balance of performance, economy, space and comfort. Yes, it is not a ST, but it is a very good 'cooking' version of the Focus which provides a bit more comfort (ride quality) and plenty of performance for every day driving.

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