Ever since it first appeared in 1998, the Ford Focus has been a staple of the UK’s roads. But the latest version has been a prime example of moving with the times: not only was diesel power ditched midway through the model’s life, owing to plummeting demand, but in fact the entire range will be phased out at the end of 2025, following on from Ford’s decision to concentrate on electric vehicles and SUVs.
This is good news if you’re in the market for a used Focus, because there are loads of them out there, and as we’ll see, even without diesel power, it makes a pretty decent used tow car.
What’s a used Ford Focus Estate like inside?
The cabin is a bit of a mixed bag. First, the good bits – it’s roomy and comfortable. Then the bad – some of the materials used feel decidedly low-rent, which is a shame.
Still, getting comfortable in the driver’s seat is easy, which is always likely to be a priority, whether buying a used or new car. In the Estate, this is because there’s a fair amount of space around you and the front-seat passenger, and you have plenty of adjustability in the seat and the steering wheel.
Those behind shouldn’t feel too short-changed, either, as there’s a perfectly good amount of headroom and legroom for two people to sit comfortably, although three of you might find things a touch too cosy.
Bear in mind, too, that if the first owner has specified the optional panoramic sunroof, headroom will be slightly compromised, which could be a consideration if you’re choosing a used tow car and will be travelling with lanky teenagers.
That said, the sunroof does brighten a cabin that might be considered a bit dark otherwise.
As you would expect, there’s plenty of boot space in the estate tow car, with 575 litres when the rear seat backrests are in position, and 1653 litres when they’re folded flat.
And you certainly can’t fault Ford’s generosity in the amount of standard equipment you get. Even entry-level Zetec models are fitted with alloy wheels, parking sensors at both ends, LED headlights and infotainment that’s compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Moving up the range brings you niceties such as automatic lights, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats and premium audio.
On the whole, we’d look for a Titanium-spec car, because it offers the best blend of useful kit and reasonably low price.
Don’t forget to add useful towing aids such as the best sat nav for a caravan, either, which can help you experience a stress-free time on the road.
How does a used Ford Focus Estate drive?
You might well think that a petrol-powered Focus Estate would struggle as a tow car, but this is not the case.
The 153bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost mild-hybrid option makes a fine choice. It produces 140lb ft of torque, and is more than up to the task of pulling a smaller caravan, such as the Bailey Discovery D4-4. Just don’t expect to be setting any speed records, however.
The 180bhp 1.5-litre EcoBoost generates 177lb ft of torque, so is usefully stronger.
The 1.0 has an official average economy figure of 50.4mpg, while the 1.5 does 41.5mpg. Yes, there’s also a 2.3-litre turbo, but that will guzzle fuel.
Hill starts are reasonably easy, although you may need to moderate wheelspin, and the Focus is unbothered by crosswinds.
You can find out more about how we found driving and towing with a 1.0 by taking a look at our review of the 2023 Ford Focus Estate 1.0 EcoBoost 155PS mHEV Active X Powershift.
Trouble spots
Around 5300 early cars were recalled because a brake pedal hinge bolt did not meet specification. Then 66,497 cars were recalled because the clutch pressure plate could break. An engine wiring loom that could chafe on the transmission housing caused a recall of 2664 cars. And 1729 cars went back to dealers because the rear doors could open when the windows were lowered.
A full list of recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
Verdict
The Ford Focus Estate is a good choice if you aren’t swept along by the SUV tide. It’s roomy and comfortable, with plenty of standard equipment. It has good powertrain choices, too. Just be aware that the cabin ambience could be better.
Before taking to the road, one thing you will wnat to ensure is that you have the correct mirrors – if you’re not sure whether you need one or two extension mirrors, we’re on hand to help, as David Motton answers “how many towing mirrors do you actually need?”.
What to pay for a 2nd hand Ford Focus Estate
- High: price: £21,495; model: 1.0T EcoBoost ST-Line; year: 2023; miles: 6000
- Sweet spot: price: £12,690; Model: 1.0T EcoBoost ST-Line; year: 2020; miles: 39,000
- Low: price: £7490; model: 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec; year: 2018; miles: 77,800
What will a used Ford Focus Estate (2018-present) tow?
- 1.0T EcoBoost
- Kerbweight: 1451kg
- Towing limit: 1500kg
- Noseweight limit: 90kg
- 85% match: 1233kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 16
- Annual VED: £195
- Average economy: 50.4mpg
- Full service: £137
Servicing price supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262,
Alternatives to consider
Škoda Octavia Estate (2013-2020)
The Škoda Octavia Estate is one of the best all-rounders you can buy. It has huge interior space, so can easily accommodate five adults, and the boot is more than big enough for all of their stuff. There’s plenty of standard equipment, too. A vast range of petrol or diesel powerplants means there should be one to suit you, and the Octavia usually stacks up pretty well in reliability studies.
If you’re interested in a more recent one too, take a look at our review of the 2023 Škoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI 150PS SE L DSG.
Used Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer (2016-2020)
Ford versus Vauxhall. It’s been going on since the early 1970s, and it continues here. The Astra Sports Tourer is a worthy rival, as it has plenty of space in the front and rear, and it has a usefully sized boot. It’s also full of standard equipment and, crucially, its interior quality feels a step up from that of the Focus Estate. It’s a strong towing option, too.
Used Mercedes C-Class Estate
The Mercedes C-Class Estate is a superbly finished towing option, providing competent towing and everyday driving. Spacious and quiet to drive, it’s only downside is it’s not for you if you’re seeking some fun when you drive.
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