On paper, the Ford Focus C-Max is more expensive than the Golf Estate. However, apply the thumbscrews and the salesman should drop the price by more than £2400, which brings the Titanium version to just over £16,000. Choose the Style model and the cost should be less than £14,500.
The C-Max splices the Focus hatch with an MPV to make a car that’s entertaining to drive and practical with it. The boot held every item of luggage, and with a van in tow, the C-Max sauntered through the lane-change test.
If we do have a doubt, it’s with the performance from the 1.6-litre diesel engine. The 30-60mph time of 25 seconds shows this isn’t a car for press-on drivers. On the other hand, it’s very quiet and refined.