Zoom and Room for the Whole Family
Pros:
Visibility, Peppy Engine, Tight Responsive Driving, Manual Transmission, Comfortable Drive, Driving Position
Cons:
Tricky Trunk Latch, Noisy & Inefficient Fan
The Bottom Line:
I would have never thought of owning a Ford, but this Focus is Fun and Practical. There's a model to suit everyone's needs.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
First Impressions
The first time I drove the Ford Focus Wagon was in 2003 as a rental. I was really amazed how fun it was to drive and so eventually we needed to buy a second car and it had to be capable of long trips that allowed our new dog to come along for the drive.
Second Impressions
Our new 2006 Ford Focus Wagon ZXW SES is even better now that when I first drove the Focus. Not only is it extremely fun to drive, but it's fully loaded with options that some car makers don't even offer. The engine is peppy yet fuel efficient, the drive feels sporty and the visibility is perfect. Plus we can drive in comfort with leather heated seats and our dog has his own room with a view.
We've been on many road trips and even on an 8 hr trip to visit the in-laws down south and we've had the car full (including a 40 lb Border Collie in the back) and there's enough room for everyone. We've even had picnic parties out of the wagon. Our in-laws wanted to know if there was any difference between the Canada and US model because they couldn't believe what kind of zip and response the car had on the road.
Consumer Reports recommended this make and rated this model (the ZXW SES) as the best. While I think base models would suffice, we did like the extras you get with choosing things like Traction Control, ABS, Heated Leather Seats, Power Moon Roof etc. I would recommend getting the Manual Transmission (which is difficult to find in the top of the line model wagon) since you really get more out of the car in driving performance. And make no doubt about it, this is a FUN CAR to DRIVE!
Favorite Features
Exterior & Interior Finish, Leather Heated Seats, Moon Roof, Visibility, Peppy Engine, Manual Transmission, Heated Mirrors, Stereo controls on Steering wheel, ABS Traction Control, Comfortable Drive, High Driving Position, Tons of Room for Pet in the Wagon.
Suggested Improvements
The trunk on the wagon is a bit tricky to operate. While it is quite light, it doesn't close fully without giving it an incredible slam. Otherwise it latches but doesn't close completely and you have to use the key fob to release it and try again, which is a bit startling for our dog in the back.
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