I purchased a 1999 v reg. Focus TDi estate for work purposes after being very impressed by my other Focus (1.8 3dr Zetec). Although the vehicle had covered 113000+ miles I was pleasantly surprised at how well it performed, rattle free, taut suspension etc. I tried a similar spec Astra TD estate before the Focus (was talked into it by salesman) a best forgotten experience! I’m getting a good 50mpg around town, considerably more on country roads and motorway. The only problems I have so far suffered are niggly detail items such as lights in the switches intermittently working. It really is a pleasure to drive, and a world away from my previous naturally aspirated diesel Escort (1995). My car is an ex company car with air con and a sunroof, which I queried; apparently large fleets can specify both these options, (try it privately at the dealership and youll have no chance). The car had an electrical problem before I picked it up, a broken alternator, which was replaced, but unfortunately this failed to extinguish the battery light. I was advised to get it reset at a main dealer and upon visiting, I was informed that the fee to plug the car into their computer was ?£65 + vat. Apparently the computer tells the ECU that a part has been changed, which, extinguishes the warning light! Overall I’m very impressed with the car. I don’t know of another vehicle that can touch it, handles beautifully (I often forget its an estate car) and will even keep up with those mega quick VW’s I have read the other comments posted on the site and with regards to having to slam the doors. You will find that if you lower a window slightly the door closes easily. The cabin is pressurised to an extent as its typical with a Focus (both my cars have this trait) and is an indication that you have a good seal in the cabin. I would be wary of a Focus if you didn’t have to slam the door with the windows closed, very impressed will definitely replace the car with another! |
