As always on the pages of our website, we fight only. Today's review is no exception. Your attention will be presented to a comparison of Ford Focus and Opel Astra.

Ford Focus and Opel Astra- cars that often took leading positions in sales

Let's figure out who is better

The bi-xenon headlights of both rivals are not satisfactory. However, like the forms of light optics, ideally fit into the “faces” of cars, as if giving them some kind of meaningful expression. Reviving them.

Well, the first round of the fight against the Opel Astra ends in a draw. Let's see what the rivals will oppose to each other next.

Inner world, interior and volumes

Shortened rear overhang Ford undoubtedly made him more beautiful. But beauty, as we know, requires sacrifice. In this case, volume was brought to the altar of beauty luggage compartment. Small trunk Focus at 370 liters brings a scoring point to the opponent, with its 460 liters of volume.

The Astra's interior is cozy and outperforms the Focus in terms of space - another point to its advantage. But that's where the advantage ends. The quality of Opel plastic is much lower than Ford's.

Focus wins the second point for ergonomics. Everything is at hand here. Most control buttons are easy to use. The instruments are conveniently located in front of the driver and are quite readable. The same cannot be said about Opel instruments; their scale is too small and makes it strain your eyesight. And you have to reach far to the mirror control unit.

Both sedans are equipped with high-quality capacitive displays with good resolution. , and there are also heated and adjustable seats. Again, Ford seats are more comfortable, the load on the lower back is less, and the support from the sides is more noticeable.

Focus and Astra already have airbags. Opel has 4 airbags, ABS and ESP. Ford has only 2 front airbags in the Mini and anti-lock braking system. For two more side airbags and a stabilization system, you can pay about $600 extra.

Again the round ends with a draw. Opel gets two points for the trunk and interior space. Ford gets one point each for quality of materials and ergonomics, respectively.

But the fight is not over; the rivals are eager to prove their superiority on the track.

When the cars start synchronously, Opel quickly begins to lead. This continues for several seconds, after which the cars level out. The reason here is the Powerlift robot installed on the Focus. During the first seconds of the start, the variator operates in an unjustifiably gentle mode. The second drawback of the robot is excessively slow downshifts.

The Astra's six-speed automatic transmission behaves differently - on low speeds Switching works smoothly. And when you climb above 130 km/h, it happens with noticeable thoughtfulness. When the Sport mode is turned on, this effect is not as noticeable, but it is still there.

Specifications

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company	Adam Opel GmbH
Country city	Russia/Vsevolozhsk	Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Model	Ford Focus 2.0	Opel Astra 1.4 Turbo
Year of production, start/end	2011/in production	2009/in production
Body
Body type	sedan	sedan
Number of doors\seats	04/5	04/5
Length, mm	4534	4658
Width, mm	1823	1814
Height, mm	1484	1500
Wheelbase, mm	2648	2685
Front/rear track, mm	1544/1534	1541/1551
Ground clearance, mm	150	165
Engine
Type	petrol with direct injection fuel	petrol turbocharged
Location	front, transverse	front, transverse
Number and arrangement of cylinders	4, in a row	4, in a row
Number of valves	16	16
Working volume, cm 3	1999	1364
Max. power, hp/rpm	150/6500	140/4900–6000
Max. torque, N m/rpm	202/4450	200/1850–4900
Transmission
Transmission	robotic six-speed	automatic six-speed
Drive unit	front	front
Chassis
Front suspension		independent, spring, McPherson
Rear suspension	independent, spring, multi-link	semi-independent, spring, with Watt mechanism
Front brakes	ventilated disc	ventilated disc
Rear brakes	disk	disk
Tires	215/50 R17	225/50 R17
Fuel consumption, l/100 km
- urban cycle	9,2	8,7
- suburban cycle	4,9	5,1
- mixed cycle	6,4	6,5
Operating data
Maximum speed, km/h	202	205
Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, s	9,4	10,3
Curb weight, kg	1348	1393
Total weight, kg	1900	1935
Trunk volume, l	372	460
Toxicity standard	Euro 5	Euro 5
Fuel tank capacity, l	55	56
Fuel	AI-95	AI-95

Job power units leaves both cars only positive impressions. With turbocharged Astra engine or Focus with its naturally aspirated engine have good torque at medium and low speeds. Acceleration in these zones occurs smoothly, without effort. For power, as well as dynamics, both competitors receive a score. Here they are at the same height.

When cornering, the Astra rolls more than the Focus. And during a long bend, the Ford’s front end doesn’t skid as much. At high speeds, the Opel is more sensitive to small imperfections in the road or small stones getting under the wheels, and more often requires a return to the straight line.

The Focus gets a well-deserved score for driving at high speeds. But driving along the city highway allows Astra to recoup. Where slow driving or stopping is required, the Opel unit is more friendly. The automatic transmission is not annoying, like the Ford CVT, which is more inclined to higher gears.

The Focus steering is more precisely tuned and more informative compared to Opel's. Therefore it brings an extra point to Ford. We will note Opel for lower fuel consumption when driving around the city.

This last round also ended with a draw, with three points each for the fighters. But, Ford Focus or Opel Astra? Let's count the number of points scored.

Competition results

So, we consider why we noted Opel:

• appearance;
• luggage compartment volume;
• interior space;
• , engine dynamics;
• operation of the “automatic machine” in urban conditions;
• economy when driving around the city.

Test Drive Opel car Astra:

Now the results for Ford:

• exterior;
• quality of finishing materials;
• ergonomics;
• driving at high speeds;
• steering.

Test Drive Ford car Focus:

We see the same number of points scored, our match ended with a draw result of 6 vs 6. None of the opponents was able to win. But this only confirms the statistics of their equal popularity.

What can I say here, consumer requirements for a car are different. Some are more satisfied with one car, and some with another. Therefore, when choosing which car to buy - or a Ford Focus, we need to start from what we want to get.

If spacious salon and more spacious trunk, as well as efficiency when driving around the city - this is embodied in the Astra.

If you cannot overcome the craving for high-speed driving, and ergonomics and the quality of interior trim are priorities, your path lies to dealership Ford.

Additions to the article in the comments are welcome. Write about your priorities. Have a smooth ride everyone.

No matter what many car enthusiasts say, the compact car class will live forever. Where such confidence? - you ask yourself a question. We answer: there are advantages similar cars much more than shortcomings: minimal consumption, ease of parking, maneuverability, comfort and the list can be endless.

Among the clear leaders in this class are the Opel Astra and Ford Focus. But we will now try to figure out which of the presented cars is better to buy. Let’s make a reservation right away: we will not arrange a test drive for representatives last generations, let's talk about those whose time has proven that they deserve to be called the best, in particular we will talk about the Opel Astra H and Ford Focus III.

First of all, let’s say that they are related by the country of origin. Despite the fact that Opel is home to Germany and Ford is the USA, these models are currently being produced from assembly lines Russian factories, thus making their purchase more affordable. This is where the similarities end, so it's time to talk about their individual advantages.

Appearance

Opel Astra is a car with an appearance that will appeal to both women and men of all ages and orientations. A streamlined roof, a wide base, small overhangs, stylish optics and embossed contours of the arches, you must agree, it’s a handsome man.

The exterior of the Ford Focus is also quite attractive - classic lines in symbiosis with modern design elements will not leave anyone indifferent to this model.

It is quite difficult to say which car is more beautiful at first glance, and we will not pursue this goal, because in any case the result will not be devoid of subjectivity, so decide for yourself which car is more representative.

Speaking about appearance, it would not be amiss to add that both the first and second participants in today’s comparative test are produced in several body styles, namely: sedan and hatchback. Depending on your wishes, you can choose the option that best suits your needs.

Salon

IN Ford interior Focus used exclusively high-quality materials, the build quality is also high, and depending on the configuration, the manufacturer also offers an impressive range of options, which makes staying in the car comfortable and functional.

The interior of the Opel Astra will satisfy the requirements of even the most demanding buyer. The materials used in the decoration will delight you with their softness and aesthetics, and the door panels decorated with faux leather will add sophistication to the atmosphere. All this is harmoniously complemented by comfortable seats and a rich range of options.

Engine and transmission

The third generation Ford Focus is presented in the dealer network with motor ruler, consisting of four gasoline and one diesel engines with the following characteristics: 1.6 (85 hp), 1.6 (125 hp), 1.6 (105 hp), 2.0 (150 hp) and 2.0 (250 l .With.). The model is equipped with either a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Opel Astra does not have a wide choice of engines; only a couple stand out: a 1.6-liter 115-horsepower and a 1.8-liter 140-horsepower. Transmission options include both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.

Price

And finally, we should touch upon such an important factor when buying a car as its cost.

Price list for Ford sedan Focus III flaunts with the amount of 542,000 rubles, on the hatchback – 532,000 rubles.

The price for an Opel Astra sedan starts at 613,900 rubles, the hatchback is slightly cheaper – from 603,000 rubles.

When it comes to buying a new car, you want to not only learn more about it, but also compare it with other models of the same class and price category. Such comparisons make it difficult to identify the advantages and disadvantages of the selected models, but also to better learn about the intricacies and details of the car. The closer the cars being compared, the more interesting it is to compare them, because against the background common features exactly those nuances emerge that can become key when making the final decision.

The heroes of the current comparison are the undisputed leaders in sales in Russian automotive market. Ford Focus 3, which took first place in 2012 with 92 thousand units, against the car that took third place with 52 thousand units, Opel Astra.

Price and range

The main advantage of Ford Focus is Russian market stands him low price, which greatly increases its rating in terms of price-quality ratio.

In addition, Ford Focus 3 is presented in wide range: station wagon, sedan, 3 and 5 door hatchback. The cars are produced in four trim levels with a range of engines and three types of gearboxes. The third Ford Focus is available in 10 body colors, for some (white, all metallics and Red Candy) there is an additional charge.

Official Opel price Astra is almost 100 thousand rubles higher. According to the official website, it is 691 thousand rubles. The car is also available in sedan, station wagon and hatchback body styles. The range also includes a range of motors different power and type as well various boxes transmission Opel Astra has color scheme of 7 colors. just like the Ford Focus, some colors (metallics) require additional payment.

Interior

Unlike its predecessor, the interior of the Ford Focus 3 has changed significantly and has become much more expressive and bright. A combination of smooth lines and sharp transitions, concave steering wheel, the protruding center console, displays and instrument panel of the third generation model look original and futuristic. All instruments and controls are organically integrated into the design, being its integral parts. The interface of the control panel, audio system, and climate panel is intuitive. Software Russified and understanding the functions is not difficult.
Thoughtful, harmonious design combines with a comfortable fit. The steering wheel and seat adjustment system allows both a miniature girl and a tall man to sit comfortably. As a small drawback, Ford Focus 3 owners note some impracticality of the fabric seat upholstery, on which dust and dirt are very noticeable.

The interior of the Opel Astra is distinguished by great grace and elegance. Round details and smooth lines successfully combine classic and modern. Separately, I would like to note the seats with extendable cushions, as well as rubber-coated handles for controlling the climate control and audio system. Not big drawback The abundance of buttons (about 40!) on the center console stands out. At first glance, this is not a problem, but a convenience, but that is until the moment you start trying to find something on it.

A much bigger drawback is visibility in the Opel Astra. The wide pillars seriously get in the way, and you can't really see anything through the small triangular windows between the pillar and the windshield pillar.

Space

Although wheelbase third generation Ford Focus has increased inner space became smaller than its predecessor. In addition, the massive armrests on rear doors take up a lot of space in the back seat. Two fairly tall passengers feel comfortable on the sofa. But a trip with three of us will no longer be so comfortable.

The Opel Astra has a sofa that is only 1 cm larger. So, in terms of passenger comfort, the cars are almost equal.

The rivals also do not differ in trunk capacity. Moreover, if we take the numbers as a basis, then the Opel Astra significantly outperforms the Ford Focus. However, when actually using the luggage compartment liters, it becomes clear that each of them can only hold a little. This applies to both sedans and hatchbacks. Actual capacity: 1 large suitcase.

A special feature of the Ford Focus is the presence of a convenient and quite spacious organizer under the trunk floor. Which, by the way, can be reduced if desired by adding additional space to the main luggage compartment. And in addition, in the luggage compartment of the Ford Focus 3 there is a full-fledged spare wheel, and not a spare wheel, as in the OpelAstra.

Engine

The Ford Focus 3 and Opel Astra engines are tuned to comply with the Euro 5 standard.
The most common engine is the Ford Focus 3 with a volume of 1.6 liters and a power of 125 hp. pp., according to experts, is inferior in its dynamic characteristics 1.8 liter predecessor. To feel the engine activity and some dynamics, you need to hold high revs, starting from 4000 rpm. The advantage of the engine is real fuel economy with smooth driving at a constant speed and early transitions to next transmission.

The Ford Focus 3 also has an option for really dynamic driving - a 2-liter 140-horsepower diesel engine. However, it only installs with automatic transmission gear shift, and its price is significantly higher than other representatives of the model.

OpelAstra engines also cannot boast of high dynamic performance. The base 100-horsepower and more powerful (by 115 hp) show rather dull acceleration, offering the driver to move smoothly in city traffic. An alternative is a 140-horsepower turbocharged engine, which makes the dynamics feel much better. But its price is also slightly higher.

Controllability

In terms of handling, the rivals act as two opposites. Against the confidence of the Ford Focus 3, the Opel Astra developers offer sharpness.

Ford Focus 3 corners confidently, does not roll and practically ignores small bumps road surface. But at the same time there is a feeling to speed up the car’s reaction to the driver’s movements. The gambling nature of the Opel Astra is manifested in greater agility, but in turns it can easily leave the trajectory, since it does not differ in the accuracy of its competitor.

Comfort

The third Ford Focus has certainly moved significantly ahead of its predecessors in terms of ride comfort. On the road it handles solidly, without unnecessary twitching or fuss, without keeping the driver in constant tension. The model moves smoothly even on Russian roads.

The suspension is resilient and at the same time elastic, preventing breakdown of the shock absorbers even on serious bumps. An important achievement in the field of comfort should also be considered an increase in the level of sound insulation. Now the tire whine that people complained about Ford owners Focus 2, in the past, there is also no impression that the engine is running directly in the cabin.

Any Opel Astra engine is perfectly audible after 4000 rpm. But the sound insulation of the underbody and wheel arches is quite decent. As with handling, the Astra is sharper on potholes and junctions. Not enough, of course, to talk about this as a drawback, but enough to lag behind the Ford Focus 3 in this category.

Safety

Both cars are equipped with all necessary means safety and received high marks for preserving the lives of passengers on European crash tests both in frontal and side impacts. The difference is that Opel Astra on the Russian market is already basic configuration equipped with all necessary safety equipment. As for the Ford Focus 3, then for full set airbags will have to be paid for.

Summary

In terms of aesthetic and functional characteristics, both cars are significantly better than its predecessors. The significantly increased level of comfort of the Ford Focus compensates for the somewhat unconvincing dynamics of the car. The pleasant impression of the Opel Astra's agility when driving is somewhat reduced due to the lack of stable stability. Of course, it is up to the potential owner to choose. And for this it is worth taking a closer look at the details.

In the segment of sedans, which are the most common among ordinary consumers in the CIS, the leaders are Ford Focus and Opel Astra. Both cars captivated consumers with their technical characteristics, external data and comfortable interior. But what about those who have not yet purchased a car and are now faced with a difficult task: what to choose, Ford or Opel?

Both cars have the same body type – sedan. Both Ford and Opel have smooth external contours, a similar shape and location windshield. Both models look stylish with elongated bi-xenon multi-section optics and trapezoidal fog lights. Due to the radiator grille in the style of Aston Martin, the Focus takes on a slightly aggressive look, in contrast to the classic and business Astra. For fans of expressive forms, Ford is suitable, and for lovers of calm lines, Opel is suitable.

The reliability of the Astra's body is higher, although they nod to its faded quality paint coating. But underneath there is strong metal that does not begin to play a year after use. Opel's anti-corrosion factory treatment wins in terms of quality.

Inside, both cars have high-quality performance displays, adjustable heated seats and airbags. Sound insulation is also quite decent. Both Astra and Focus transform back row seats, due to which the trunk acquires additional space. The creators of Opel allocated 460 liters for luggage, which exceeds 370 Ford liters. It has just one liter less volume fuel tank with Focus, here 55 versus 56 give an insignificant difference, which still exists.

Focus interior

The Astra's interior is more spacious than the Focus, but loses in quality of finishing, since it has a lot plastic parts. Another disadvantage is causing criticism Opel's visibility is limited by the front pillars.

Ford's instrument panel is distinctive and modernized in the new New Edge style. All instruments are at the driver’s fingertips and are easy to read. The seats provide good lateral support and minimize stress on the lumbar region.

Astra interior

Compared to Opel's dashboard, then Astra has to strain its eyesight, and you have to reach out with your hand to control some options. But this did not stop the developers from focusing on security. Astra has 4 airbags, ESP systems and ABS versus anti-lock braking and 2 airbags in the Focus. To compare with Ford in this regard, you will have to pay extra, since 2 more airbags and a stabilization system are available as an additional package.

As for the sizes, the difference here is minimal. The length, width and height of the Focus are 4534X1823X1484, and for Astra the following numerical values ​​are 4658X1814X1500. The dimensions of Opel are slightly larger than Ford, and ground clearance with a larger wheelbase.

Differences in technical stuffing

Ford Focus developers have used a wide range of motor range. But 3 gasoline and one diesel were available for the domestic market:

• 1.6-liter PNDA engine with 125 horses;
• IQDB unit with a volume of 1.6 l and 105 hp;
• 2-liter engine with 150 horsepower;
• 2 liter turbodiesel with 140 hp power.

Range of Ford Focus power units

Everyone interacted gasoline units with 5-speed manual transmission, diesel internal combustion engine- only with a machine gun. Fuel consumption in mixed mode is 6.4 liters per 100 km for the Focus and 6.5 liters for the same mileage for the Astra.

The Opel Astra's engine range is a little more modest. Our consumers are offered several units that consume gasoline:

• turbocharged engine A 14 NET with 1.4 l and 140 hp;
• 1.6-liter A 16 XER engine with 115 horses;
• 1.6 liter A 16 LET turbo engine producing 180 hp

Range of Opel Astra power units

Technical characteristics and engine compartment filling of Ford slightly benefit due to wide choice power units, transmissions and more economical fuel consumption. It is possible that some will disagree, focusing on Opel's 180-horsepower turbo engine. But Focus engines have lower fuel consumption with high performance.

Both sedans have exactly the same independent McPherson spring front suspension. But the rear ones are significantly different. Ford's independent spring multi-link keeps the car on the road better than the spring semi-independent one with the Watt mechanism on Opel.

Speed ​​test

When choosing between the Opel Astra and Ford Focus, any motorist will want to test them on the track. During the test drive it was noted:

• The Astra has a slight roll when cornering and is sensitive to small gravel on the road when driving at high speed; the front end of the Focus is not so obvious;
• on city roads Ford is already losing, since the variety of transmissions here has played a disservice, because on busy streets and in congestion, Astra is not so gluttonous and its gearbox is more flexible;
• Opel has greater ground clearance, which allows it to overcome off-road conditions and poor surfaces with minimal problems;
• the maximum speed is almost the same - Ford has 202 km/h, Opel has 205 km/h;
• as numerous tests have shown, the Astra is a little heavy and stiff at the start, which is why it accelerates to the first hundred in 10.3 s versus 9.4 s for the Focus.

It is difficult to determine which is better in dynamic indicators, since at different road conditions cars behave differently. One thing is clear that the Opel is more suitable for driving around the city, and you should go on the highway with the Focus.

We offer a draw!

Ford Focus is a car that has already become a classic. After all, wherever you look, there are continuous Focuses, whether on the roads, in showrooms, or in specialized services. We must pay tribute to the heirs of the great Henry Ford, who take care of the offspring of their concern. There should be no problems with the repair of this model, since there are many dealer and specialized services. The supply of spare parts has also been established, although original parts will be quite expensive.

The Opel Astra shares the leading position with the Focus in popularity and in unspoken competition. But there are not many specialized workshops for cars. True, Astra can be repaired at almost any service station, since partner stations that have entered into agreements with Kaliningrad plant"Avtotor", that's enough. There are no problems with finding components.

Let's summarize. In comparing the two cars it is obvious that:

• Ford wins interior decoration due to the quality of finishing materials and ergonomics, as well as the versatility and comfort of the seats;
  Opel is superior in luggage compartment volume and small fuel tank;
• The Focus performs well on the highway and when driving at high speeds;
  Astra is ideal for use on city roads;
  The offered engine range is wider in Ford, and the performance is also higher;
• Opel wins in fuel consumption, especially in urban areas;
  The Focus has higher dynamics, it starts easier and accelerates faster;
• Astra is superior in terms of ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers;
• Focusing on pricing policy Ford has surpassed Opel, since the cost of the basic configuration of the second is almost 100 thousand rubles higher.

The opinions of motorists also differed widely. Based on reviews from owners, we can conclude that in most cases the choice depends on the personal preferences of each car enthusiast. Some people fell in love with the aggressive look of the Focus, while others prefer the classic features of the Astra. There are also those who do not take into account the dynamic advantages of Ford, since they pay more attention to Opel's economical fuel consumption.

Determine what more reliable than Ford Focus or Opel Astra is quite difficult. Both sedans have good technical indicators and filling, not to mention attractiveness appearance. Which car to choose in the end will have to be decided individually by everyone, because for many people it is also important financial aspect, only for some it prevails when purchasing, and for others during operational maintenance of the machine.

Video about cars

Review of Ford Focus from "Bigger Test Drive"

Vorotnikov about Focus

Victor Stelkakh will talk about Astra

Info car about Astra

Comparison of competitors in English from the British

In a relationship " Focus III", Russian sales of which started just the other day, Ford adheres to the same strategy that ensured the success of its predecessors. They still do not raise prices, offer buyers decent European quality and, importantly, huge selection. Yes, there will no longer be a three-door, but today a 5-door hatchback and a sedan are rolling off the assembly line of the plant in Vsevolozhsk, and at the beginning next year They will also be joined by a station wagon. The list of options is completed by four trim levels, a quartet of engines and three types of gearboxes. Becoming noticeably brighter and more aggressive in appearance technically The car has not changed fundamentally. It is based on the C1 platform, on which the first Focus was built. That didn’t stop engineers from stuffing the car with all sorts of innovative systems, such as navigation and active assistant when parking. The latter, of course, cost a decent amount of money, but at the same time no one deprives zealous buyers of the opportunity to build a well-equipped copy for themselves for no more than 600 thousand.

The newest Astra, which debuted at the end of 2009, does not have a sedan body, but otherwise its representation in our market is just as numerous. And the Opel also has a Russian passport. The large-scale assembly of the Sports Tourer station wagon is established in Kaliningrad, and the more popular hatchback is completely produced - including welding and painting - at a plant in Shushary, not far from the birthplace of Ford.

True, even the Russified Astra in its basic configuration is noticeably more expensive than the Focus. But the quality of a car is not measured by price alone.

From simple to complex (interior)

The interior of the second generation Focus seemed gray and artless to many. The interior of the heir is much more expressive. The polyhedrons of the speedometer and tachometer displays, the block of the center console hanging over the climate control panel, the concave steering wheel, the sharp edges of the dashboard, broken lines door handles by no means trivial. It’s amazing that Ford’s designers managed to harmoniously fit all earthly controls into this cosmic architecture. Understanding the buttons for the audio system and climate control is not difficult. Even such an advanced feature as automatic parking, and it is extremely easy to use, especially since “Focus” writes all the prompts in the great mighty one. You can’t fault the ease of landing either. The range of adjustments for the seats and steering wheel is enough for a short driver and a big man with a height of 190 cm. The only small omission of the Ford finishers is the very impractical fabric upholstery of the seats, which attracts dust and dirt like a magnet.

The shapes and colors of the Astra interior have much more warmth and elegance. The smoothly curved dashboard seems to want to embrace you. The instrument panel with classic round dials is pleasing to the eye. Seats with extendable cushions, rubberized radio and climate control knobs with clearly fixed positions deserve exceptional praise. But why was it necessary to populate the center console with a huge number of buttons? We counted exactly forty pieces! A good part of them can easily be sent to the tunnel. But what upset us most about the Astra was the visibility. You can really see little through the small triangular windows between the wide windshield pillar and its support.

Amazing transformation

The Focus' wheelbase has increased by 8 mm. However, having measured the distance for the legs of the sofa passengers, we not only did not find any increase, but even missed one centimeter. Moreover, the massive armrests located in the doors narrowed the width of the rear seat. Fortunately, there was something to cut. Yes, of course, after a little downsizing, the Focus sofa is quite comfortable for two people up to 186 cm tall. But traveling with three of us, you will have to squeeze a little more than before.

The “Asters” sofa is 1 cm wider. But this is not his main gain. The Opel has noticeably more headroom, which allows tall passengers to sit upright rather than hunch over or slide forward, resting their knees on the backs of the front seats. And it’s more convenient to get into a car with a higher roof.

With and without suitcases

The Focus's trunk has remained virtually unchanged in size. The distances to the back of the sofa and the front seats remain the same. We measured the same 40 cm from floor to shelf. In general, it’s not an example of spaciousness - there’s enough space for one large travel suitcase, but if you need to transport anything else bulky or long, you’ll have to fold out the backs of the sofa.

All our attempts to fit two large suitcases into the trunk of the Opel were also unsuccessful. But if we use generally accepted measurement methods, then its hold is noticeably more spacious. Thanks to the small-size spare wheel, it is 13 cm deeper. In addition, the distance to the back of the rear seat is 7.5 cm greater. As for the loading height and the possibilities of transforming the sofa, the Astra is not inferior to its rival in these disciplines.

Green Party

The 1.8-liter, 125-horsepower engine was extremely popular among Focus II buyers. Gas engine. Unpretentious, high-torque from low speeds, it moved the pistons very cheerfully, giving the car decent dynamics. Alas, its 1.6-liter replacement is not a fighter. Despite the same power and the presence of a variable valve timing system up to 2000 rpm, the engine simply sleeps. To just drive normally, it is advisable not to lower the tachometer needle below 4000 at all. But even then, you can’t expect a quick response to the gas, which completely excludes active actions in the city and requires greater caution when overtaking on the highway.

But this unit satisfies environmental requirements Euro 5, and if you try to save fuel by driving at a constant speed or changing to the next gear as early as possible, it will reward you with a green flower growing on the display on-board computer. It seems to us that even with the new 150-horsepower engine, the Focus will perform little better. When accelerating from 50 to 100 km/h, the more powerful unit is faster by just one tenth of a second. Thus, lovers of dynamic driving have only one choice - a 2-liter 140-horsepower diesel engine. However, you can only buy it with an automatic transmission, and such a car costs more than all the others.

Astra engines are also calibrated for Euro-5. Both the base 100-horsepower model and its more powerful relative, developing 115 hp, can boast minimal carbon dioxide emissions. The car accelerates with them very sadly, forcing the driver to either slowly swim in the flow or literally stomp on the gas pedal. Still, for active drivers, Opel has a more attractive offer than Ford. The 140-horsepower turbocharged engine may not be explosive, but it carries a lot of heart. It is ready to support active urban movements and is able to quickly accelerate from a speed of 150 km/h. And it costs only 44,100 rubles more than the 115-horsepower one.

Who likes what?

And the controllability of the Focus has diminished in sparkle and enthusiasm. Yes, the car is more than confident on the high-speed straight line, not nervous about joints and small holes, and rolls minimally in corners. However, its steering is a little lacking in clarity and responsiveness. This gives the impression that it is somehow not a joy for Ford to go through a series of turns at the limit of traction. And in general, I don’t want to force him to do anything.

“Astra” has a completely different character. It is not as well-trained and accurate - in the same turns and on the same tires, it begins to slide outward a little earlier than the Focus and can jump off the line, hitting bumps. But these generally insignificant gaps in upbringing are more than compensated for by excitement. It is not necessary to go to the limit. You already get a lot of pleasure from how willingly and easily the Opel dives into turns, how frank it is with you. In addition, sophisticated drivers can order the Flex-Ride suspension - its shock absorbers with electronically controlled V sport mode make the Astra's handling even more fun.

New level

What the Focus has unconditionally improved is comfort. The ability to drive solidly, without fuss, without straining your owner in any way, is perhaps the main achievement of the new Ford. It may be without enthusiasm, but the car rolls very smoothly along our patched and patched roads. At the same time, the suspension has enough elasticity to prevent breakdown of the shock absorbers even on fairly large bumps. The engineers also did a great job on sound insulation. The whine of tires, which was quite annoying on previous Focuses, is now practically inaudible. The engine also received a good dose of sedative: silently, as the speed increases, it no longer raises its voice.

The same cannot be said about Opel engines. From 4000 rpm, the growl of any of them is clearly heard in the cabin. For sound insulation of the bottom and wheel arches“Astra” is also a little inferior to its opponent, and also behaves a little more nervously on pits and junctions. By and large, all this does not go beyond the bounds of decency and is not very annoying, but in general, traveling in an Astra is definitely less comfortable than in a Focus.

Everything, but not right away

Both cars have already performed well in European crash tests. Equipped maximum number airbags, Ford and Opel turned out to be very skillful bodyguards both during frontal collision and during side impacts. The dynamic stabilization system installed in the cars also contributed to the achievement of a five-star rating. However, in Russia, the Astra is closer to ideal, since the base is already equipped with ABS, ESP and a quartet of airbags. Safety “inflatable curtains” for any of its modifications cost 9,500 rubles.

The most affordable Focus has only two airbags and an anti-lock braking system. Side airbags and ESP are standard on the more expensive Trend-Sport and Titanium. However, a full set of pillows, including window ones, and a stabilization system can be obtained in the database - for 19,500 rubles.

In almost all respects

The price list of the new Ford leaves virtually no doubt about the success of the car. In any of the popular options - be it a 5-door hatchback with optimal equipment, the same sedan or a version with automatic transmission, Focus is cheaper than any of its competitors. For example, a five-door with a 105-horsepower engine, ABS, two airbags, air conditioning and an MP3 radio can be bought for 538,000 rubles, and a sedan with more powerful engine and a new 6-speed automatic transmission “Power Shift” costs 674,000 rubles. And as before, Focus is inexpensive to maintain. Planned expenses for it Maintenance, including replacement brake fluid, over 60,000 km is 32,000 rubles.

For Astra, a similar service is 12 thousand more expensive. And the prices for the car itself are higher - by 15,900 rubles when purchasing the version with automatic transmission. If we compare basic options with air conditioning, the difference increases to RUB 75,900. “Astra” is more profitable only when dynamics come to the fore when buying a car. Today, Opel, equipped with a 1.4 Turbo engine, can only compete with the Ford team diesel version, but it is 85,500 rubles more expensive.

WE DECIDED:

In form and content, both cars became richer than their ancestors. It’s a bit of a shame that it has acquired many benefits, such as a parking assistant and a multi-colored decorative lighting, “Focus” in its new incarnation is no longer so easy to climb. Although the excellent driving comfort more than compensates for the unconvincing dynamics of some versions of the Ford. And it wasn’t just the smooth running of the Focus that earned it its high final rating. It has a comfortable interior, exemplary handling, high level safety and, of course, a very attractive price.

But even despite such pressure from the opponent, Astra did not yield. She has exactly the same grade in her record book. Yes, the Opel is more expensive, makes a little more noise and is rougher on the move, but its interior is more spacious and its trunk is more spacious. Finally, Astra will require less money for the dynamics. So it's a draw.