Focus just got sportier

Back in 2001 I had a full head of hair andwas being taught how to drive by a Scotsman named Grieg in a gleaming FordFocus.

I have fond memories of both my instructorand the car, so when I heard I was to test drive the new 2012 model, I wasthrilled.

The exterior of the Focus has beencompletely redesigned and looks sportier than ever before, an added bonus sincethe car’s main selling point is its fuel economy, which adds an extra few milesper gallon than the 2010 model.

I was determined to relive my youth on theopen road. In all fairness it handled pretty well and the ride was comfortable,albeit this particular model was a ‘no frills’ affair. There aren’t manyentertainment options onboard as standard but there is a radio and CD playerwhich is really all you need and options are available to add on the latestgadgets.

During my test drive, I took theopportunity to practice a few of the manoeuvres from my driving test just forfun. I have no doubt that Grieg would be totally ashamed of how bad my parkinghas become since moving to the kingdom.

My three point turn, however, was masterfuland made easier by the power steering.

In terms of safety, the model boasts ABSwith hill assist, air bags for front passenger and driver and a passiveanti-theft system.

Under the bonnet, the 2012 Focus has arespectable 1.6-litre duratec 4-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatictransmission. It certainly won’t set any lap times at the BIC but theacceleration time was on par for a model of its class.

The main difference between the version Ilearned to drive in and this one is the air conditioning.

Back in Blighty we don’t have much use forit and mainly use the heater instead. However, the AC in the 2012 sedan kept mefabulously frosty cool during a scorching 34 degrees day. Owners during theheat of summer will be thankful indeed.