New Car: Ford Focus Active 2019 review

New Car: Ford Focus Active 2019 review

The new Active trim adds an SUV spin to Ford’s popular family car, with the visual transformation based on what is essentially a mid-range Zetec model. A choice of two petrol and two diesel engines are presented, while the Active setup is also available on the Focus Estate.

Standard equipment highlights taken from the Zetec include cruise control with a speed limiter function, lane keep assist, automatic headlights, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. As well as a mock-off-road makeover, the Active builds on mid-spec Zetec trim by adding navigation, voice control, a 4.2-inch driver information display embedded in the instrument panel, and keyless start. An Active X model loaded with almost every optional extra is also offered.

The entry-level 123bhp EcoBoost 1.0-litre petrol engine provides an adequate level of performance, but many Focus Active buyers, and particularly those going for the larger Estate, will find the extra power of the 1.5-litre petrol, or the additional grunt offered by the diesels, easier to live with. The 200Nm of torque offered on overboost by the 123bhp EcoBoost doesn’t feel like it goes that far and, when loaded up with kit and family members, it could easily become sluggish.

To give it its dues, though, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost is a supremely refined three-cylinder unit, being very quiet not only at a cruise, but also through the gears during hard acceleration.

The Focus Active drives almost exactly the same as the regular Focus, save for an extra bit of body roll and fidget thanks to the taller, unique suspension tune. The fundamental sweetness of the Focus’ chassis setup is still there to be exploited, and the additional bits of spring and tyre mean the Active boasts a slightly more supple ride than the rest of the Focus field. Not only is this a decent car to hustle cross-country, it’s also a superbly comfortable one for long-distance motorway slogs. The steering and the manual gearbox, meanwhile, are pleasant and effortless to use.