YOU can’t go wrong with a Focus. It’s been the default choice for anyone wanting a family hatchback since the brilliant MK1 was launched in the late 90s.
The second generation car was even better and helped the family Ford to see off challenges from cars such as the VW Golf, Vauxhall Astra and Renault Megane.
Now the third generation car is here and, as usual, its unbeatable combination of ride, handling and accommodation has sent it straight to the top of the class.
Value is no longer part of the equation though. The new car is frighteningly expensive. Just a bog-standard 1.6 diesel Zetec will cost you £18,500. That’s right – the best part of a typical year’s salary for a basic diesel Focus.
But its competitors have had new cars out for over a year. So given the state of the economy, what kind of savings can canny buyers make on its competitor's current models if they go “used approved”?
Vauxhall Astra (2010)
The Vauxhall Astra covers all bases. It’s excellent to drive and very, very well built – more than a match for the Golf in this respect. It has great accommodation for the family and all their gubbins and Vauxhall provide a huge range of engines and trims to appeal to just about anybody. Best of all though, it’s cheap – especially with a petrol engine.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk price guide: A lightly used and well cared for one-year old 1.4 turbo petrol Astra, with less than 10,000 miles on the clock can be yours for around £10,500.
VW Golf (2009-)
The Golf is as sensible a choice as you can make. Solid, dependable and stylish, it’s got much more badge kudos than the Focus and will hold onto its value like nothing else in the class. Diesel prices are very firm but you can get a 1.6 petrol for a lot less money.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk price guide: Pay no more than £13,500 for a well looked after two-year old VW Golf 1.6 petrol with around 10,000 miles on the clock.
Renault Megane(2009-)
The current Megane was launched only last year. It’s our favourite car in the class, offering unmatched ease of use combined with really exceptional comfort and a brilliant, well built cabin. A great family hatch at very low prices. Go for one of the petrols for even greater savings.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk price guide: A lightly used nearly new 1.4 turbo petrol can be yours for around £14,500.