Faults:

Oil + belt changes, the car is looked after well.

Needed new suspension struts, brake discs, and so on.

Rear windows a bit slow moving, but they rarely get used.

Air con barely works.

Bonnet has slight rust right at the lip.

Rear wiper won't work.

General Comments:

This 2011 Focus is the first of the newer shape cars for 2011, I think it is a really good looking car.

Inside the dash is also stylish and still modern. Titanium model is very well equipped, electric everything. Seats are very nice to sit in.

Pretty economical, tax, insurance and repairs have been OK. The 1.6 is hardly a great performer, but it is good enough for every day driving, and probably the best engine to have. I have also averaged around 40 mpg, not bad. The car is smooth and quiet even on motorways.

I would honestly say it is one of the best all round family hatchback cars you can get, and I have had a lot of cars. Despite its age, I can see myself hanging onto this car for a lot longer as well; look after these cars and they are as reliable as anything.

Faults:

A/C is dead. I did the timing belt and water pump. I keep it serviced on time. Had a lot of brake and suspension work at my last MOT, but expected for the age and mileage.

General Comments:

2011 Focus, first of the newer shape cars for that year. Quite good looking, but don't let this car's good looks fool you - it's pretty dull.

Nothing special to drive, especially coming from driving a Kia Sedona it is obviously better, but not as good as people say. Yes the handling is sharp but that is all. The 1.6 petrol engine is lethargic and struggles for any decent economy, managing only 40 mpg on summer long drives.

Zetec spec is middle of the range, plenty of electrics. Seats are comfortable.

All in all not a bad car, just a typical common hatchback that you see on the roads everyday.

Faults:

Oil and belt changes (basic servicing).

Exhaust fell off (back box); replaced for a fair price.

Major work to brakes and suspension at last MOT test.

Cosmetically has seen better days, but it is 10 years old now. Air con is useless, may just need a re-gas, but I'm not going to bother as it is winter now.

General Comments:

A decent car that I did not have great expectations for, but turned out to be OK. Very similar and fun to drive handling wise, much like my old 2005 Volvo S40, which these cars are apparently based on the same platform. The Volvo felt more refined and expensive than the Ford however, but both are similar to drive.

I like this Focus in blue with the alloy wheels; the Edge model has enough electric equipment for me. Interior is cleverly designed if a bit cramped, and visibility is good.

The 1.6 diesel engine is fast enough, but not as good on fuel as I had expected - the manufacturer claims over 60 MPG, but I get 50 on average, even on a good day, unloaded and serviced on time. I suspect they all exaggerate MPG claims, though interestingly most cars I have had before I got the combined average as claimed, but not out of this car unfortunately. Still, over 50 MPG for a 10 year diesel is good going and still economical to run today in 2021. Tax, repairs and insurance have also been very cheap.

In general it has been an easy car to own and run. If you are looking for a used modern hatchback yourself for little cash, these Ford Focus's make a good choice for basic transport, if you find a looked after one. Shop around for a friendly local mechanic to keep costs down as well and you are onto a winner; had mine 6 years with no major complaints.