SUCH was the success of the original ground-breaking Focus that those charged with creating a new version must have wondered: What do we do now?
Well they've had a go - the most telling changes coming via extra length - but, thankfully, nothing compromises the excellent handling characteristics of the Focus, which put it way ahead of any competitor in the small family car market.
Once again, the car sticks to the road like glue, takes on weaving roads with aplomb and provides the driver with delightful feel through the hands.
In fact, the car has been marginally improved in these areas through a 10 per cent stiffening of the build and a wider track, but it's the multi-link rear suspension that remains at the root of the Focus flair.
In style and comfort terms, the extra length of the vehicle comes into play. The new Focus is more coupe-like in stance, steeply raked front and rear and with a sporty sloping roofline.
Importantly, this doesn't create the usual coupe problem of tight headroom for those at the back, and they also benefit from the extra legroom generated by the new dimensions. Access and exit at the back are even easier.
The Zetec-spec test car didn't give a typical example of Focus comfort, featuring, as it did, lowered sports suspension. A very solid ride was accentuated by the optional leather sports seats - heated and electrically adjusting - which, while gripping, were a little over-firm.
Although I was never truly comfortable, I hasten to emphasise that this was down to the special features. I have no doubt that the standard Focus is a good place to be.
The cabin certainly looks good, with an especially-pleasing dash. The aluminium highlights are eye-catching, but the essential factor is how simply and clearly the controls and information readings are set out. An object lesson in design.
Cabin tranquility is good. There's some road noise, but, again, this might have been down to an option - the bigger 17in wheels.
Standard features in the Zetec trim include front, side and curtain airbags, electric front windows and heated door mirrors, reach and rake steering wheel adjustment, radio/CD player, remote central locking with deadlocks, perimeter alarm and front foglights.
Be aware that if you want air conditioning you have to go for the Zetec Climate package.
An armrest contains a couple of trays but in-car storage is generally moderate. Boot capacity, however, is improved and quite good.
This particular Focus was powered by the brand-new 1.6-litre 16-valve Duratec engine with twin independent variable camshaft timing, a purring unit that allies spirit with good economy - more than 55mpg on the open road.
The electronic throttle provides quick responses and power is delivered through an easy five-speed manual gearbox.
It all adds up to a quite sporty character, which is the Zetec's role in the Focus line-up. Good fun, super handling and practical with it.
FAST FACTS
Ford Focus 1.6 (115) Zetec 5dr
Price: £14,245
Mechanical: 115bhp, 1,596cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 10.8 secs
Combined mpg: 44.1
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 155g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12 years anti-rust