Which is better Focus 2 or Astra H. Comparison of Ford Focus and Opel Astra - we place our bets, gentlemen. Technical characteristics of Opel Astra J

In the first version of this article, I indicated as one of the shortcomings Opel Astra— lack of official dealership in the Russian Federation. But in a few days everything changed: Ford Motor Co is officially leaving Russia, which puts the three-door Astra and Focus on par. Does it make sense to buy cars from brands that have left our market? And which model is better? Let's find out in the article.

In appearance, the “German” immediately goes on the offensive. Its sharp edges and thousands of lines are an order of magnitude more interesting than the exterior of the calm Focus. Add to that the sloping roofline and neat rear end, and you'll understand why the H GTC is still eye-catching and doesn't look old-fashioned even today.

Ford Focus 3dr, promoted as a youth hatchback, looks much more conservative. It is distinguished from its five-door brother by its flatter rear window and longer doors. True, due to the shape of the roof, it gives the Astra a painful blow to the gut. If the Gran Turismo Compact can only accommodate two people in the back (preferably not very tall), then the Focus is quite a five-seater car.

Engine range and gearbox

If the fight had taken place in Europe, where the Opel Astra H GTC was offered with more than 10 engines, the outcome of the round would have been a foregone conclusion. But in Russia, the “German” is available with 1.6 and 1.8 liter engines of 115 and 140 hp. With. and a pair of turbocharged exclusives with 200 and 240 horsepower. Gearboxes include five- and six-speed manual transmissions, a four-speed automatic transmission and a five-speed EasyTronic automatic transmission.

“Ford” is offered with four naturally aspirated petrol engines of 1.4 volume; 1.6; 1.8 and 2.0 liters (80-145 hp), as well as with a 1.8 turbodiesel with fuel consumption of about seven liters in the city. A real combo - the ST and RS versions, which developed the 225 and 305 horsepower respectively.

So, Opel Astra, which actively started the battle, blocked the opponent in terms of engine range.

Of the gearboxes, the Focus has 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions comparable to the Opel, a 4-speed automatic transmission and a PowerShift robot with two clutches. It's funny, but neither one nor the other manufacturer managed to bring the manual transmission to perfection - both boxes kick, kick and do not like dynamic acceleration.

Equipment and options

The third round of the confrontation, “Astra”, which missed a lot of sensitive blows due to its meager engine and transmission range, begins with a carefully calibrated series. The first basic Essentia trim is available with air conditioning, fog lights, heating, stereo system, alarm and a full range of security systems.

The second Enjoy package includes climate and cruise control, four airbags, a multifunction steering wheel and full power accessories. The third series of Cosmo strikes: alloy wheels R16 (on request - R17 and R18), headlights with spherical lenses, piano lacquer trim, a combined leather + fabric interior and a couple of final striking options - adaptive xenon light AFL, panoramic roof and navigation system .

Focus is having a hard time this round. He responds to his opponent’s bold blows with blocks. The Ambient package has only ABS, an airbag and audio preparation, while the Comfort package has air conditioning, an on-board computer, aluminum inserts in the interior and a stereo system. The strongest blocking moves are called Ghia and Titanium with power packs, alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control.

Maintainability

Once upon a time, Adam Opel AG launched a recycling program and an accompanying advertising campaign. The viewer was shown old and damaged cars, then a brand new Kadett and the confident voice of the announcer said: “Your car can become an Opel!” True, in Russia the slogan was translated with an error (“Any car becomes an Opel!”) and was morally equated German car to junk.

In this round, the Astra immediately receives a strong blow from the Focus for its 1.6 and 1.8 liter Ecotec engines. Due to wear of the plastic elements, the motor begins to operate unstably. The “sore” is eliminated by installing a cheap plastic clamp.

Often, Astra's throttle valve heating tubes burst (warranty case), heat exchangers actively "run", camshaft gears break down to the wedge, the EGR valve becomes clogged, the membrane cracks crankcase gases(eliminates by replacing the valve cover). The power steering also malfunctions, the seat heating is moping, the alarm system often fails and the antifreeze reservoir bursts.

Focus is head and shoulders above Astra in terms of reliability. Yes, its engines have IMRC valve failure and the filter gets clogged fine cleaning fuel and the fuel pump often burns out, but this is almost nothing compared to the problems of the Astra gearbox. Here synchronizers break, input shaft oil seals leak, and within 40-60 thousand km the EasyTronic “robot” clutch burns out.

Timid and completely painless blows of the “German” on the competitor’s body - on the Ford IB5 series gearbox, the pin of the satellites breaks until the box is destroyed, and the steering rack completely malfunctions.

All Ford problems Focus 3dr is well known and is “treated” in most services. There are very few competent Opel craftsmen. And those that exist say: “We learn something new every day, because even things that we didn’t suspect break down.”

Cost and problems on the secondary market

On secondary market for Astra H GTC they ask from 170 to 500 thousand rubles. The most available cars They have already exchanged the third hundred thousand kilometers and two or three owners (and others - even PTS). A car in normal technical condition will cost 280-350 thousand rubles.

For 330 thousand rubles we found a 2008 model, with a 1.6 115 liter engine. s., automatic transmission and mileage 171 thousand km:

We check the history through the service and see that in almost 11 years the car has had six owners and once the Opel was involved in an accident. Now it is sold with a duplicate title. Perhaps because there was no space left in the original document to make entries.

The three-door Ford Focus II is cheaper than its competitor. The minimum cost for a car is 120 thousand rubles, the maximum is almost 600. Hatchback 2007. with a 1.8 and 125 liter engine. With. and with a mileage of 150 thousand km is sold for 210 thousand rubles:

The ad states that the Ford was owned by one owner. The Autocode report showed that the car was owned by six people, with the last one using it for only four months:

The car was involved in an accident, has a duplicate title and traffic police restrictions. It will not be possible to re-register such an Opel until the restrictions are lifted from it.

So, in this round, Opel beat Focus with a slight advantage.

Which car to choose

The advantage of Astra is that it’s stylish appearance(almost a coupe, after all), available spare parts and rich equipment, the downsides are quality, quality and quality again.

The key advantages of Ford are its “nationality”, maintainability (hello, taxi drivers!) and variety of trim levels. There's only one drawback: it's a car like everyone else's: it looks normal, drives usually, and usually sells.

We presented all the pros and cons of the models and their final assessment in a comparative table:

Which of these two hatchbacks do you like? Share your opinion in the comments below the article.

Regarding " 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, most importantly, a 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 of 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. Having become 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 the engineers from stuffing the car with all sorts of innovative systems, such as navigation and active parking assistant. 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. 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 basic configuration 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 central console hanging over the climate control panel, the concave steering wheel, the sharp edges of the dashboard, the broken lines of the door handles are 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 function as automatic parking is extremely easy to use, especially since Focus writes all the prompts in the great mighty one. You can’t fault the ease of seating 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 in 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 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 gasoline engine was extremely popular among Focus II buyers. 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 meets Euro-5 environmental requirements, and if you try to save fuel by moving at a constant speed or changing to the next gear as early as possible, it will reward you with a green flower that grows 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 more attractive offer than Ford's. The 140-horsepower engine equipped with a turbocharger, although not explosive, is very lucky. 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. Because of this, it seems that the Ford is somehow not happy to go through a bunch of turns at the limit of traction. But 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 considerable 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 its 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. In terms of sound insulation of the underbody and wheel arches, the Astra is also slightly inferior to its rival, and besides, it behaves a little more nervously on potholes and joints. 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 with the maximum number of airbags, Ford and Opel turned out to be very skillful bodyguards in both frontal and 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 complete 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 a 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 costs for its 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 the basic options with air conditioning, the difference increases to 75,900 rubles. “Astra” is more profitable only when dynamics come to the fore when buying a car. Today, only the diesel version can compete with the Opel, equipped with a 1.4 “Turbo” engine, in the Ford team, but it is 85,500 rubles more expensive.

Which is better Ford Focus or Opel?

So I bought a Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost with 100 horsepower, I chose it because I think it’s better!
The choice turned out as follows:

• Choosing between a large number of C-class representatives, I wanted something special, but at the same time not shouting about itself, like the Honda Civic;
• reliable and conservative, but not Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra;
• something bright, but not a Peugeot Citroen, somehow they look and drive like a woman, there is no drive at all.

Ford Focus is a time-tested car, popular in Europe, America and here, most importantly. Fresh, stylish, the golden mean between style and conservatism.

Interior view of Ford Focus

In the cabin, I was immediately struck by the excellent ergonomics, everything is at hand, concise and informative. A feeling of security and composure, I sat down and drove off without hesitation.
It is clear that the interior was designed by people who know their business. The quality of plastic for this money is 5-. I like everything in the cabin, but there could be more space in the back.

Driving impressions

Focus drives as if glued to the road, cornering is excellent, steering- clear, the steering wheel becomes heavy as you gain speed, safety comes first.
The suspension, as befits a driver's car, is a bit harsh. And to hell with it. DRIVES GREAT!

Ford's Heart

The engine with a volume of only 1 LITER, but with a turbine, produces exactly 100 hp, the dynamics of 12.5 seconds is certainly not encouraging, but the fuel consumption of 6 liters in the city compensates for this disadvantage.
On the highway we managed to achieve 4 liters per 100 km, although only 2 times, when I was driving 90 km/h the whole way, otherwise 4.5-5 liters.
Ford Focus problems that I encountered
The steering rack was changed once under warranty, and the stabilizers were changed. The rest is fine. No knocks or creaks anywhere. Mileage 39,000 km. I'm happy with the car.

“I want to buy a 5-door hatchback from $6,000 to $7,000. I’m considering Opel Astra, Fiat Punto, Fiat Bravo, Ford Focus. Conditions: manual, engine size - 1.6-1.8 liters.”

Let's cross out both Fiat models first! Nothing personal, it’s just that both Bravo and Punto of the generations in question are equipped with gasoline engines with a capacity of up to 1.4 liters, which does not fit into the requirements of the author of the question (rare powerful versions of Bravo do not count, especially since they are not visible on our aftermarket) . In addition, the Punto belongs to the European segment B and is noticeably inferior in size (and therefore in interior space), as well as in the level of comfort, to the other three models representing the golf class.

So we suggest focusing your search on two models - Opel Astra H and Ford Focus II. Note that both cars have repeatedly become the heroes of our publications, in which we examined them in detail technical features and disadvantages. So now let’s go over the main points and compare the models.

Body

Focus loses its presentation over time: the paint becomes cloudy, and in some places even peels off. In addition, there may be problems with rust, but in most cases this is the fault previous owners who did not take care of the body and did not promptly eliminate small pockets of corrosion in places where paintwork and zinc were damaged.

The Astra paint coating is also not particularly resistant to mechanical stress, so over time, pinpoint corrosion may also appear in places most vulnerable to sandblasting and other damage. But openly rotting Astra Hs are an extremely rare occurrence.

Engines

In the case of the Focus, we wouldn't recommend chasing the 1.8-liter engine, even despite the greater power and timing chain drive. Firstly, there are enough problems with stability of operation, which is to blame either the ignition system or throttle valve, then the control unit. Secondly, often after 200 thousand km an opening is required due to obstructed oil scraper rings.

So it’s better to pay attention to the 1.6-liter version. Yes, 115 hp version of Ti-VCT until 2007. had questions with the reliability of the clutches of the variable valve timing system, and in general the “phases” are a no-no, and they remind of themselves, although perhaps it’s also a matter of quality maintenance and the oil used. But the old 100-horsepower engine is hardly worth considering for purchase, since it is rather weak with almost the same level of reliability.

At one time, the 1.6-liter Ecotec X16XEL (101 hp), the same one that was installed on the Astra G, considerably spoiled the reputation increased consumption motor oil due to premature wear of valve bushings. But the 115-horsepower Z16XER engine is free from this drawback, so there is no need to be afraid of this option; the choice between it and the 140-horsepower 1.8 Z18XER engine (both engines in these modifications appeared on the Astra H in 2006) from a reliability point of view is not fundamental .

Also, both engines with distributed fuel injection can be considered quite attractive from the point of view of maintainability and the cost of repair costs. A weak points What they have in common is the ignition module, faulty sensors, and not the most reliable wiring. In addition, engines are sensitive to the quality of engine oil and the timing of its replacement. In general, the selection criterion can be either technical condition a specific instance, or differences in characteristics: the 1.8-liter engine is more powerful, but also a little more voracious.

Transmissions

The IB5 manual transmission on the Focus was not very reliable. And this is another argument in favor of the 1.6-liter version, although repairs may also be required over time, although most likely the matter will be limited to replacing synchronizers.

The F17 manual gearbox, used on the Astra with the engines in question, is also far from ideal: cases of its premature failure are not that uncommon with mileages of up to 200 thousand km and on cars less than 10 years old. Therefore, before purchasing, be sure to check whether the operation of the transmission is accompanied by increased noise or extraneous sounds. Moreover, on a more powerful 1.8-liter engine, it is much easier to provoke the “death” of the differential and shaft bearings - in this sense, the 1.6-liter version is also a little “safer”.

Suspension

In the Focus chassis, the front ones are relatively short-lived wheel bearings, and with mileages over 100 thousand km, a rear multi-link may need to be rebuilt, and this operation may seem unexpectedly expensive due to the abundance of parts.

Unlike the Focus, the Astra uses a simpler semi-independent beam at the rear. The front is also a McPherson, if not eternal, then simply inexpensive to repair. So keeping the suspension in working order is not at all burdensome. But here, too, the exception is the insufficiently durable and rather expensive wheel bearings, which are replaced along with the hub. But in any case, Opel should have fewer questions regarding the suspension.

Price Pulse

As the analysis shows, with a budget of $6000-7000 one can consider buying Opel Astra H and Ford Focus II 2008-2009, although there are also more recent examples. At the same time, the price level for Focus is slightly lower, which allows you to either save money or choose a later year of manufacture, all other things being equal.

Our verdict

Both models are close not only in their technical characteristics, but also in the level of reliability, as well as the cost of maintenance. In both cases, we recommend that you consider purchasing 1.6-liter versions - they initially have fewer questions regarding both the engines themselves and the gearboxes. Otherwise, everything depends on the technical condition of the specimens in question.

Ivan KRISHKEVICH
website

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Hello friends!

Today we will continue the series of comparisons of classmates. Next in line are products from the European automobile industry: Opel Astra J series and third generation Ford Focus.

So which is better, Ford Focus and Opel Astra? Let's figure it out together!

Exterior of Ford Focus and Opel Astra

The third generation Ford Focus is the embodiment of the manufacturer’s ideas aimed at improving aerodynamic performance, which was reflected in the appearance of the car. Soft, streamlined shapes improve the aesthetics of the model. A slight hint of aggressiveness gives the car solidity. The headlights have acquired a “predatory look”, and in combination with trapezoidal fog lights and an updated radiator grille a la Aston Martin, it can rightfully be called a “predator” of the roads. The model is offered to Russian buyers in three body types: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback and station wagon:

Ford Focus 3 sedan

Ford Focus 3 station wagon and hatchback

Does the Opel Astra J have more classic lines, signs of German stability and reliability? A new design radiator grille, elongated headlights and modern stylish foglights – all this together gives the car a dynamic image, elegance and recognition on the road. Before leaving the market, the model was offered to Russian buyers in four body types: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback and station wagon, 3-door coupe hatchback:

Interior: "Opel Astra" or "Ford Focus 3"

The interior of the Opel Astra J is made in classic dark colors. The seat material is wear-resistant, leatherette is available upon request. Color, as standard, is gray.

The front console is made of plastics of different textures; in terms of the quality of materials and ergonomics in general, it is objectively inferior to the Focus. The dashboard with chrome digital instrument surrounds looks stylish and rich. Thanks to the soft backlight, all indicators are perfectly visible.

The on-board computer screen is located between the tachometer and speedometer. And in top versions, at the top of the center console there is a large multimedia system and navigation display.

Expensive versions have a climate control console on the steering wheel, phone calls, audio system. The rear seats of the Astra are more spacious than those of the Focus.

In the Ford Focus 3, attention is drawn to the quality and at the same time practicality of materials. The seats are covered with water-repellent fabric, and in the top versions it is possible to order combined upholstery with inserts made of high-quality leatherette. The buyer can choose the color of the interior trim at his discretion: from cream to dark gray.

Modern and stylish dashboard convenient for monitoring instrument readings without being distracted from driving.

The steering wheel in expensive versions is equipped with a control panel for on-board systems, starting with control of the multimedia system and ending with the settings of the on-board computer, which are responsible for the comfortable use of the car. It is possible to voice control a number of multimedia system functions. The Focus has more comfortable front seats than the Astra.

Volume Ford trunk Focus is: for a sedan - 372 liters (one of the smallest trunks in the class), for a hatchback - from 277 liters (with non-folded rear seats) up to 1062 liters in transformed form (with the rear seats folded), for a station wagon - from 476 to 1502 liters.

The trunk volume of the Opel Astra is larger in all cases: for a sedan - quite a decent 460 liters, for a 5-door hatchback - from 370 liters (with the rear seats folded down) to 1235 liters in a transformed form (with the rear seats folded), for a station wagon - from 500 up to 1550 l.

Technical characteristics of Ford Focus

The engine type on most Ford Focus models is naturally aspirated, with a volume of 1.6 liters, which by the way are now produced in Russia, at the new Ford Sollers engine plant in Yelabuga, with a large share of parts and raw materials of Russian origin. we wrote about this. Depending on the boost level, it develops 85 hp. (this engine is installed only on the hatchback in the basic version, exclusively with a 5-speed manual, from 834 thousand rubles), as well as 105 and 125 hp, these two power units can be combined with both a 5-speed manual transmission (from 971 and 1 million 006 thousand rubles, respectively) and with a 6-speed “robotic” gearbox (from 1 million 011 thousand rubles and 1 million 046 thousand rubles, respectively) . And at the top of the range is the 150-horsepower EcoBoost turbo engine, which is combined exclusively with a 6-speed classic automatic transmission (from 1 million 196 thousand rubles).

The turbo engine of the EcoBoost family appeared on Russian Ford Focus quite recently; it pleases with excellent traction coupled with low fuel consumption

Technical characteristics of Opel Astra J

Opel Astra generation J was also mainly equipped gasoline engine with a volume of 1.6 liters, but with only one boost level (power 115 hp). And in recent years, before leaving the brand Russian market(perhaps in solidarity with Western sanctions?), turbo versions with a volume of 1.4 liters (140 hp) or 1.6 liters (170 hp for the station wagon and 3-door hatchback, or 180 hp) were actively supplied. for a sedan and a 5-door hatchback), a 2-liter turbodiesel with a power of 130 hp was occasionally found. "Asters" were equipped with a choice of mechanical five-speed gearbox transmission or six-speed automatic.

All engines on the Opel Astra belonged to the EcoTec family

Test drive Ford Focus and Opel Astra

During a joint test drive, it turned out that both models feel confident on the road. The difference is only in nuances and not too big. In general, the Ford Focus is a little better in terms of handling, it rolls less on turns and during acceleration, and delivers more “driving pleasure” (we are leaving the 3-door Astra out of the picture). Ordinary Opel Astras behave a little more comfortably on our roads, compared to the Focus, and react less to various road trifles.

To sum it up: Ford Focus or Opel Astra

And by technical parameters, and in terms of behavior on the road both models are quite close. When choosing, the main issue may be personal preferences, some of the nuances of differences - which were described above. And most importantly, Ford Focus continues to be on the Russian market, which also means better availability service and the availability of spare parts, a larger selection of models on the secondary market. At the same time, the Opel Astra has a considerable number of fans who appreciated the interesting design of the car, and a fairly successful overall balance of the car’s qualities. It’s up to you to decide what is better to choose; perhaps some of my comments will be useful to you.