If you like the looks of an SUV, but prefer the way a hatchback drives, Ford might just have the answer.

The Focus Active sits 30mm further from the ground than the hatch on which it’s based, and its beefed-up styling suggests outdoor adventure rather than the daily grind. The Active is available with a number of petrol and diesel engines, and there’s also an estate model. We’re testing the Active X 2.0 EcoBlue Start/Stop Auto.

What are we looking for?

As well as assessing the car’s towing ability, we want to find out if there’s a real benefit to choosing the Active, or it it’s all about the way the car looks.