THE FordFocus has been the best-selling family hatch in the UK for years and that is because it is very good.

The current generation arrived on the scene last November and there is something for everyone in the new line up with a wide range of models and engines to choose from.

Buyers can select from basic models all the way up to the stunning, high performance ST model and from a variety of turbo petrol and diesel engines.

The latest third-generation Focus sets the standard in the family hatchback market, providing a smart blend of quality, comfort and handling.

The latest improvements provided the Focus with amore upmarket-looking chrome grille, narrower headlights and a much improved interior.

A new range of engines and techno treats were also introduced to help keep it ahead of its rivals.

The hatch offers bags of space but if you need more you can opt for the fine estate model which drives and handles just as well as its sibling.

Now available in five main specifications - entry-level Studio, Style, the mid-range Zetec and top-of-the-range Titanium and Titanium X buyers who are after more performance can also choose between the sporty Zetec S or the excellent Focus ST.

The engine line-up features economical diesel and smooth petrol engines and this car was the 1.0-litreT Style five-door with Stop/Start, priced at £17,945.

The Style is only one grade above the entry level model but it is not short of standard equipment. You get a DAB radio with a CD player, steering wheel audio controls, Ford SYNC (including Bluetooth and Voice Control) with emergency assistance, air conditioning, electric front windows, a trip/fuel computer, cruise control with active speed limiter, hill start assist, an Eco Mode driver information system, remote locking, electric door mirrors and a Thatcham alarm.

Safety equipment includes numerous airbags, an electronic stability programme (ESP), emergency brake assist (EBA), Ford's intelligent protection system, vectoring control and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The frugal 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine may not suit all tastes but it is very capable. It emits just 99g/km of CO2 and since the current car is lighter than the old model it does not struggle.

It is smooth and has a top speed of 115mph and takes 11.9 seconds to reach 62mph. The five-speed gearbox has a slick action and you need to use it well to make good progress.

The Focus provides an entertaining drive thanks to sharp steering and a responsive chassis. It has the edge on most of its rivals when it comes to handling and the suspension has been improved to make things even better.

Inside the latest Focus is a big improvement over the old model. Anall-new dash brings thingsup to date and the quality of the materials used is much better than before with soft-touch plastics replacing scratchy surfaces. The blue lighting makes the instruments look classy and the displays are all much easier to read.

Ford claims the car is capable of 65.7mpg on the combined cycle but I couldn't match that. I still averaged over 50mpg - not bad for a car of this size.