Country & Base – USA – Dearborn
Key Models:
- Ka [city car]
- Fiesta [supermini]
- Focus [family hatch, estate and convertible]
- C-MAX [compact MPV]
- Kuga [compact 4x4]
- S-MAX [large MPV]
- Galaxy [large MPV]
- Mondeo [family hatchback and estate]
RAC Cars Need To Know:
Given Ford's huge sales, it's perhaps surprising that they service this market with just eight basic models, from which it can then spin off a large selection of derivatives. No real surprises when it comes to the models that earn a solid used recommendation. Since the day it was first launched in 1998, the used Ford Focus has been the family hatch benchmark and the second generation model, launched in 2005 is still a class act. Although it's now been replaced by a third generation car, a diesel second generation Ford Focus represents a lot of car for the money. Petrol residuals are a little weaker and prices for the thirsty 2.5-litre ST sports version are plummeting.
The first generation used Ford Ka looks good value, as does any Mk3 Mondeo (2000-2007). In fact, some feel that the third generation Mondeo represents the sweet spot in this car's development as far as driving dynamics go. Get a well-looked after car with the right toys and it still feels surprisingly fresh. The late shape Ford Galaxy and S-MAX models earn a strong recommendation but be careful of kerbed wheels and damaged interiors. School runs are a tough environment for any car.
Finally, we make no apologies for forwarding a recommendation to a personal favourite of ours. The Ford Fiesta ST is powered by a rather lazy 150bhp 1.6-litre engine, but it's light, it handles superbly and is criminally undervalued at the moment. Why pay £14,000 for a Suzuki Swift Sport when a 2008 second hand Ford Fiesta ST can be yours for half that price? Opening book price for clean, early cars is £3,500.
