Ford Focus Est 1.6 tdci (90ps)

[RobE1]

Hi, has anyone out there any experience of towing with the above car? As a company car I did not get the choice of how many horses there were under the bonnet! I would be looking to tow something like a Ranger 460/4 which is ok weight-wise but I wonder if the Focus has enough grunt to keep me moving comfortably. Any views would be most welcome. Thanks.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Robe...

Why do doubt what the car manufacturer says? The manufacture has to carry out tests to comply with the type approval regulations, and as a result of evidence based tests, they have established what the car will tow.

Clearly in Fords opinion it has enough power to cope with the stated towed mass. Obviously a more powerful engine will get the outfit up to speed quicker, but whether it is "enough Grunt" for you , only you can say.

The more important thing is how quickly can you stop, and is it controllable thankfully that is not dependant on engine power.

 

[RobE1]

Hi John

Thanks for taking the trouble to reply to my query.

I am aware of all the points you make but was really looking for someone with first hand experience of using this Focus model as a tow car.

Having previously towed a Lunar Venus with a Rover 600 diesel and then a Honda CRV petrol I am concerned about the Focus's ability to cope with the outfit safely despite Ford's opinion.

The 'grunt' factor is not just about getting up to speed but maintaining momentum in various traffic conditions, inclines, etc without totally stressing the engine.

Thanks again.