Recently, the Ford Focus II lineup has been joined by another version — now the two-liter engine can be paired with an automatic transmission. Those who complained that the Focus with a 1.6-liter engine and automatic transmission was not particularly lively can rejoice — the new variant promises to be noticeably more spirited. There is no doubt about the demand for such a modification: the car has become more dynamic and, perhaps, a bit more prestigious. But after a month of driving such a car, we discovered several nuances that future owners should know about.
Let's start with fuel consumption. No miracles here: two liters is not a "one-and-a-half," and a four-speed automatic is not a five-speed manual. So visits to the gas station will become noticeably more frequent.
The second point is pulling away from a standstill. Oddly enough, a smooth start is only possible in one case: if you don't touch the accelerator pedal and let the car begin moving at idle speed. Only then can you gradually press the accelerator. If you press the gas immediately after releasing the brake, the car will inevitably jerk.
You will also inevitably have to accept that the automatic hesitates before downshifting. If there's no time for such deliberation — for example, during an overtake in a tense situation — it's better to switch the gearbox to sport or manual mode in advance and take care of the lower gear yourself.
And one more note, which, however, applies to the entire Focus family. Those who value cabin quietness should immediately consider replacing the standard tires with quieter ones or adding extra sound insulation to the wheel arches. Then driving will be a pleasure. Otherwise, there's practically nothing to fault in the "automatic" Focus.
Driving
The car is dynamic, easy to handle, responds lively to the gas, and handles corners excellently. The brakes also don't let you down.
Interior
Spacious and comfortable, well-equipped, though not without minor flaws.
Price
Fully matches what the car offers.
Pros and cons
+ Modern looks, rich equipment, decent dynamics, adequate price.
- Hesitant automatic when downshifting. Poor sound insulation of the wheel arches.
Specifications
- Make and model — Ford Focus II 2.0 AT
- Dimensions — 4337x1839x1500 mm
- Engine — 1999 cc, 145 hp/6000 rpm
- Transmission — automatic, 4-speed
- Performance — 189 km/h; 11.2 s to 100 km/h
- Competitors — VW Jetta, Nissan Tiida