When the all-new fourth generation Focus went on sale last September, Ford knew they had to up their game against stiff competition and the growing popularity of SUV's to reclaim the top spot.
The blue oval marque has since expanded its line-up, with the launch of the latest version of popular Estate and top of the range Vignale hatchback.
Having put the models through their paces, driving hundreds of miles through towns and motorway, both offered engaging drives, excellent fuel economy, comfortable ride, plenty of gadgets and safety features.
First up, if you're looking for a practical, economical family Estate, then the new streamlined Focus has plenty to offer.
For a start, there's now 610-litres of luggage space as opposed to 475 of old, thanks in part to its new aerodynamic design and better use of space.
The new sloping roof might give the impression that rear space is tight - but you'd be mistaken. Where six-foot passengers used to struggle for legroom in the rear, they can now fit comfortably and with slightly more head room.
Space up front is aplenty, with both driver and passenger able to relax in comfort.
The driving position is good, with an array of adjustments available on the drivers seat. Pedals are well positioned and the steering is responsive and sharp as you'd except.
Visibility is good all round, and more surprisingly out the rear window, which is large.
Parking sensors are standard towards the top end, but optional on other models, as is a rear-view camera.
The new Estate handles well on the road, grips the corners and produces a good ride quality with very little body roll.
Sportier trims offer stiffer suspension, so bumps and potholes are more noticeable and wind noise can be slightly loud on motorways.
Two turbocharged, three-cylinder petrol EcoBoost powertrains are available. The 1.0-litre comes in three outputs - 85PS, 100PS and 125PS, emits 107g/km to 131g/km returning 49-60mpg.
The 1.5-litre 150PS and 182PS, emits 121g/km to 138g/km and returns 46-53mpg. The 182PS delivered the best drive and acceleration.
As for the EcoBlue diesels; they include a 95PS and 120PS 1.5-litre and a 2.0-litre 150PS emitting 91-121g/km respectively, returning 64-80mpg. Both have good acceleration and pull whilst in high gears.
All Estates come with a smooth six-speed manual gearbox or optional eight-speed automatic. The engines are pretty smooth as is the gearing.
The entry-level models come with 16inch alloys, electric power assisted steering, A/C, stability control, hill start assist, heated windscreen and cruise control.
Sportier ST-Line adds sport seats and 17-inch alloys, with the X model coming with 18-inch alloys and sports suspension.
The Titanium trim adds parking sensors, heated front seats and dual-zone climate, with the range topping Vignale adding full leather, heads up display, active park assist and a 675 Watt Bang & Olufsen sound system.
All models come stocked with tech and have a clutter-free layout. Entry models come with DAB radio, Bluetooth, two USB ports and 4.2-inch screen.
Further up the models Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, moving onto an 8-inch screen using Ford's SYNC3 infotainment system with built in Sat Nav.
Automatic emergency braking, which recognises pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles and adaptive cruise control, which helps keep the car at a safe distance from traffic in front, work well.
It's well built, with clever use of durable plastic in lower positions that might be more likely to face knocks.
The new Estate has a five-star NCAP safety rating and a standard three year or 60,000 mile warranty.
With prices starting from £19,405, whether it's for fleet or personal use, the new Focus Estate definitely ticks all the boxes for a practical, economical fun family drive, complemented by a fine ride and value for money.
The range-topping Vignale hatchback, is the latest addition to the five-door line up. It's sporty 18-inch alloys set off its sleek design, including its unique front grille and bodystyling.
With full leather trim, on the road, it's a fast, very quiet, comfortable ride. With the same engines on offer as the Estate, though it returns slightly better fuel economy.
With no inside noise, you're encapsulated behind a plethora of gadgets and gizmos - as aforementioned for the Vignale Estate.
The electrically adjustable drivers seat and in-cabin multi-coloured ambient lighting add a nice touch and the heated steering wheel comes in handy on these cooler mornings.
The choice of wood or carbonfibre trim help compliment the Vignale's leather bound dashboard.
Safety devices are a plenty in this family friendly hatchback.
Prices start from £25,805.
The Vignale hatchback takes on a competitive market sector as does the Estate, and with Ford being a dab hand, their new models are sure to be the focus of attention.
The Focus Estate and Vignale feature as seen in the national press.
