Bought New Focus Zetec! :-)

[Forest Bear]

I was in the market for something fresh and new to replace my 2001 Holden Astra. The Astra is a fine car but my experience with Holden during my ownership is so and so. They're not bad but neither are they good. Hopefully a different ownership experience with Ford.

I was set on a Mazda3 because imho nothing else on the market comes close to it. Its a top car. Its styling is okay with me but doesn't have me going goo goo.

I was going to wait for the 3door Astra GTC coupe but after reading the specs for the Australian model decided no. I was also eagerly awaiting this new Focus because its a stunning looking car especially the Zetec hatch. The sedan's rear half still looks awkward like the previous model.

Anyway I went to Binks Ford in Footscray for a test drive and was happy with what I saw. First time I saw it in the flesh. I'm not a red light hoon or speedster but I do enjoy attacking corners at speed and nice winding drives. Its got enough punch for me. The tiptronic auto is fun but I'm a lazy auto cruiser. Plenty of grip from its fat tyres.

The base Focus CL has an aweful interior thats comparable to cheapo Koreans. The horrible plastic is simply terrible but the materials inside the Zetec is much improved.

Stereo is pretty good and there's also 3mm audio jack in the glovebox to hook up an ipod. Turning indicator clicking sound is electronic and is not loud enough. The boot in the hatch is enourmous.

I bought the Focus because its based on Mazda3, same engine as Mazda3 and there is a cam timing chain instead of belt and it looks fantastic. I wanted silver but considered red only it just wasn't red enough.

Today I signed the papers and now sit back and wait for my new pure silver Zetec auto hatch to be delivered. Will post Pics for ya if you want.

[zetec]

Absolutely sensational, fantastic to see such an inundation of new Focus owners!!! Congratualtions on your purchase, it's always exciting buying a new car, ESPECIALLY one that really hits the mark. I'm glad to hear you're so impressed by it! We wouldn't expect any less! The race is on to see who'll be our first club member for the Eurofordclub with a MkII Focus, even though I have managed to bring along a few vehicles to some cruises from work, nobody is an owner yet. Can't wait for the pics and I recommend you check out our fantastic European Ford Owners Club at www.eurofordclub.com !!!

[Teki04]

Damn! So many new Focus owners! CONGRATS TO YoU ALL! Seems the new focus has hit the mark!

[Timmeh]

Originally Posted by Forest Bear

Turning indicator clicking sound is electronic and is not loud enough.

I had to smile when I read this part. The opposite was true in the LR Focus, still electronic, but with alot of people complaining it was too loud.

Well done on the new purchase, I look forward to seeing pictures!

Tim

[Forest Bear]

Got a call from "After sales" department. After forking a total of 32 thousand they want to sell me paint protection. I told them I can do this myself with a $13 bottle of glide on glaze.

Anyway I want an alarm installed. She quoted a basic alarm which she says usually goes for $850 but they're having a "special" $100 off promo. "Options" include a shock sensor, tilt sensor. I also want one with a microphone that listens to glass breaking. Clearly a ripp-off.

I'll put locknuts for the alloys. I just want a basic alarm with shock sensor and glass break sensor.

Should I go after market alarm instead?

[galaxy xr8]

Sound's good,I can not wait to see the pic's, you would probably be better of checking out aftermarket alarm's.

[murcod]

Go aftermarket for the alarm. For around $300 installed you'll an alarm immobiliser with glass breakage, battery back up, all black wiring, remote with central locking etc. Check out www.dynamco.com.au -a lot of places sell their alarms and they're excellent value.