[PeCo]

Checked out a silver LZ Focus Sport at City Ford Rockdale yesterday.

Positives compared to my LW Mk1 Focus Titanium with Sports Exec Pack include the new engine and transmission (I didn't test drive it but I'm assuming it is a step up), the new front end which looks good, and the new Sync 2 8" touch screen inside.

However, the interior has taken a step backwards in terms of quality and presentation. Whereas my Focus has glossy black and metallic grey finishes on the dash and doors, the LZ has mainly matt finishes which look and feel cheap. Ford has even removed the chrome surrounds on some controls making the cabinet feel more down market and plastic looking.

And Ford has also removed features from the Titanium such as the sunroof, HID headlights, static cornering lamps, heated seats and adaptive cruise control.

Seems the Focus will have trouble competing on features against others in the class, which is a shame because I think it's a great driver's car.

And BTW, the Sports does have red ambient lighting in the interior.