Ford Focus vs Vauxhall Astra: Used Car Comparison

The Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra are two of the most popular cars in the UK, which means there's plenty to choose from. Both cars are great and close to each other in every way, so how do you know which one is better? Here's our guide to the Focus and Astra, which will take a look at how each car's latest version compares in key areas.

Interior and technology

Both the Focus and Astra look good on the outside, but what do they look like on the inside and how easy are they to use? The good news is that you will feel right at home and comfortable in any vehicle, and they are equipped to keep you entertained on long journeys. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on both, so you can control smartphone apps through the in-car screen. The Focus screen looks more impressive, although this is not surprising since it was launched in 2018, while the Astra has been around since 2015. However, the Astra's screen is more responsive when you're using it, especially if the Vauxhall you're looking at is the most recent version (launched November 2019) as it has received a newer infotainment system as well as updated looks and engines. 

Overall, the Astra feels a bit better on the inside. The Focus is good, but the Astra has an extra sense of quality, with materials that look and feel a little more premium.

Luggage compartment and practicality

A few millimeters here and there is all that separates the Focus and Astra in most external dimensions, and their interiors are equally similar in size. 

There is not much to choose from in the front seats. You can easily seat two adults in the back of any car, although three will be a bit cramped on long trips. Taller adults will find a bit more room in the back of the Focus, but both are roomy for a car of this size.

Overall, both cars are practical enough for families, but once the rear seats are in place, the Astra has an advantage in the trunk. If you fold down the rear seats for larger items, you get a little more room in the Focus, so it's a little better for loading bikes or a giant tip ride. Both cars have plenty of storage and door pockets, as well as a pair of sliding-lid cup holders between the front seats.

What is the best way to ride?

The Focus and Astra are some of the most enjoyable cars of their kind to drive, so what's best for you depends on your priorities. 

Both are convenient and easy to park, and they drive just as well in the city as they do long distances on the motorways. But if you love to drive and prefer to drive home on a country road rather than a dual carriageway, you'll find the Focus feels a bit more fun, with agility, a balanced feel, and steering that gives you real confidence. Behind the wheel. 

If that kind of thing doesn't bother you, then there's little choice between the two cars. If comfort is a priority, avoid any sportier trims (like the ST-Line models in the Focus) because the ride might not be as comfortable. The Focus's ride comfort is generally slightly better, but both cars ride smoothly and are great for motorway driving because you don't hear a lot of road or wind noise inside at higher speeds.

What is cheaper to own?

Both cars are great value for money, but you'll usually find that buying an Astra costs a little less than a Focus. 

When it comes to running costs, a lot will depend on which engine you choose. Gasoline cars are more affordable and fuel will cost less at the gas station, but diesels provide better fuel economy, with maximum official averages of 62.8mpg in the Focus and 65.7mpg in the Astra. Note, however, that the Astra engine range has changed for 2019, with older models becoming less efficient.

You may see several new Focus models advertised with "mild hybrid" technology. It's an optional electrical system attached to the gasoline engine that helps reduce fuel consumption a bit, but it's not a full hybrid and you won't be able to drive on electric power alone.

Safety and reliability

Both Ford and Vauxhall have good reputations for reliability, although the JD Power 2019 UK Vehicle Dependability Study, an independent survey of customer satisfaction, ranks Vauxhall several places higher than Ford. However, both manufacturers are well above the industry average, which is good news for potential customers.

If something goes wrong, both Ford and Vauxhall offer a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty. This is par for the course for this type of vehicle, although some competitors have much longer warranties, with Kia Ceed's seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty standing out in particular.

Both machines are equipped with many safety features. In 2018, safety organization Euro NCAP awarded the Focus a maximum five-star rating with high scores across all dimensions. The Vauxhall Astra scored five stars back in 2015 and had nearly identical ratings. Both cars come standard with six airbags. Automatic emergency braking is standard on the latest Focus, but while many used Astras have this key safety feature, others (especially older examples) may be missing as it was an option on some models.

dimensions

Ford Focus 

Length: 4378mm

Width: 1979 mm (including mirrors)

Height: 1471mm

Luggage compartment: 341 liters

Vauxhall Astra 

Length: 4370mm

Width: 2042 mm (including mirrors)

Height: 1485mm

Luggage compartment: 370 liters

Verdict

There's a reason the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra have been hugely popular for years. They are both great family cars, and which one is right for you depends a lot on your priorities. If you want the best value for money, the prettiest interior and the biggest boot, the Astra is the way to go. The Focus is more fun to drive, has more modern technology and several more efficient engine options. For these reasons, this is our winner by a narrow margin. 

You will find a huge selection of high quality Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra vehicles for sale on Cazoo. Find the one that's right for you, then buy it online and either have it delivered to your door or pick it up at one of our customer service centers.