Much is expected from this fourth generation Ford Focus. Designed from a clean sheet of paper, it looks set to give its rivals plenty to think about and you can see all this for yourself when you visit the Vertu Motors showroom in Gateshead.

The fourth generation Ford Focus puts its maker right back into contention in the family hatchback segment, with smarter looks, much improved interior quality and extra technology. There's also what Ford claims to be class-leading levels of safety. And greater efficiency beneath the bonnet from a completely rejuvenated range of engines, including the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol unit we look at here, which gains efficient cylinder deactivation technology.

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The best part though, is that this car still remains as rewarding to drive as it's always been. The Focus might have grown up but it certainly hasn't lost its spark.

Here's a car that's grown up - matured - in almost every way. You might, like us, wish that Ford had been a touch more adventurous about this fourth generation Focus model's design, but you can see at a glance that it better meets the key criteria for the kind of car a family hatchback should be. Up-front inside, the dashboard has been pulled forward and there's a slimmer, lower centre console, plus that new body shell has freed up more room for shoulders and knees.

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Engine-wise, most of those looking at the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol unit we tested tend to go for it in its 100 or 125PS forms, though there's also an 85PS base variant available. You can also have this unit with mHEV mild hybrid tech. All variants get a driving modes system which offers three settings - 'Eco', 'Normal' and 'Sport'. The quickest 125PS 1.0-litre powerplant can be ordered with the option of Ford's latest 8-speed auto gearbox, which adapts to your driving style. The 100 and 125PS petrol derivatives respectively manage 60.1 and 58.9mpg on the combined cycle and around 108g/km of CO2. The base 85PS version of this engine manages 58.9mpg and 110g/km.

Even in its most basic form, this Focus remains an entertainer at heart, a car you'll feel at one with thanks to its progressive body control and steering precision. As a result, it's still a default pick amongst family hatchbacks if you like your driving.

For more information, go to: www.ford.co.uk