Our comparative test of the Toyota Corolla 180i GSX and Ford Focus 2.0i. There are, several good reasons why they were bound to meet head-to-head on these pages. Firstly, they are remarkably similar when it comes to price and specifications. Secondly, the Corolla marks a significant change in image for Toyota, as did the Focus for Ford when it was launched internationally in the late ’90s. These two competitors also vividly illustrate just how valuable good brand image is. And finally, both are top sellers in different parts of the world.
Design
Corolla
Focus
When Ford originally launched the Focus it was lauded for its mould-breaking ‘New Edge’ styling, inside and out. And while we still think the design works well in front, the addition of a boot to the rear end has resulted in a much less distinctive overall look than the hatch.
As ever, styling is very much a matter of personal taste, but CAR’s panel of testers was in general agreement that the Corolla has the more balanced and harmonious look. The Toyota’s lack of the odd creases and bulges so evident on the Ford also means it’s less likely to date than the Focus.
Much has been said about the Corolla’s long 2 600 mm wheelbase, but the Ford’s is, at 2 615, even longer. However, the Corolla makes more of what it’s got and has the bigger cabin.
In GSX spec, the Corolla benefits from cream leather and wood inserts to complement the soft-touch black facia top, giving it some real upmarket style. By comparison, the Focus facia’s slashes, curves and straight lines look a tad dated. It is finished in sombre black, except for the silver trim on the hangdown section.
The Corolla’s storage spaces include a sizeable cubby, a large box between the seats, a lidded compartment on the hangdown section and another to the right of the steering wheel. There are also a ‘reconfigurable’ drinks holder compartment between the seats, and rather narrow door pockets. The Ford makes do with a cubby, more usable door pockets, a narrow shelf under the steering column and two drink holders under the hangdown section.
Powertrain
Corolla
Focus
Powered by a VVTi (variable valve timing – intelligent) 1,8-litre engine, the Toyota has a slight advantage in the power battle. It develops 100 kW at a heady 6 000 r/min and 171 N.m torque at 4 200. The Ford’s Zetec two-litre powerplant manages 96 kW at 5 500 r/min and slightly more torque – 178 N.m – at a higher 4 500 revs.
When pushed hard the Toyota emits a ‘buzzy’ engine note that can become irritating, especially when compared with the Ford’s more subdued tone.
The test team was split on the subject of transmissions. Some liked the Toyota’s mechanical shift feel, describing it as more accurate than the Ford’s. But others felt the Focus required less effort.
Comfort and features
Corolla
Focus
Thanks to its impressively spacious cabin, the Corolla has a head start in the comfort stakes. There is marginally more room all round, especially in the back. The Focus is by no means cramped but cannot match the Corolla’s overall feeling of spaciousness.
The Ford’s front seats were rated as more supportive – especially when cornering – than the Corolla’s. Seat comfort was rated as equally good, although this would depend on personal preference. Some testers felt the Ford’s front seat cushions were not that comfortable, and our tallest tester said the Corolla’s driver’s seat didn’t move back far enough. A comfortable driving position shouldn’t be difficult to find in either car – both have height-adjustable driver’s seats.
In addition, the Corolla’s steering wheel is adjustable for rake, while the Focus’s can be adjusted for both reach and rake. Specification levels are similar; the more expensive Toyota featuring leather upholstery and electric rear windows, which the Ford doesn’t have. But the Focus has traction control.
Performance and braking
Corolla
Focus
As our test figures show, the Toyota is the faster car on the test strip. Its 9,44 seconds 0-100 km/h time is among the fastest in its class, as is the 203 km/h top speed. The Ford tops out at 200 km/h, and takes 9,91 seconds to reach 100 km/h from rest.
The Corolla is much livelier in top gear, while the Ford performs better at slower speeds in lower gears. In our emergency stop test, the Corolla posted a fractionally better average time of 3,13 seconds, compared with the 3,16 seconds of the Focus. There weren’t many complaints about pedal feel, although one tester said the feedback from the Focus’s pedals was ‘numb’, and another said the Corolla’s brakes grabbed too suddenly. Both cars have ABS backed up with EBD.
Fuel economy
Corolla
Focus
The 9,83 litres/100 km figure of the 180i GSX compares favourably with its competitors. But it’s still beaten by the Focus in this test. The Ford’s 9,44 litres/100 km fuel index figure (expected overall consumption) is among the best in its class. However, the Corolla’s bigger fuel tank (60 litres compared with 55) gives it a longer range.
Ride and handling
Corolla
Focus
Internationally acclaimed for its good combination of sporty handling and overall ride composure, the Focus squares up to the Corolla with a very solid reputation. Perhaps surprisingly, though, the Corolla was generally felt to be the better all-rounder.
The Focus soaks up bumps at normal cruising speeds and tends to isolate the driver more from the actual driving experience. If you’re in the mood for relaxed cruising, that’s a bonus, but sporty drivers will appreciate the Corolla’s communicative chassis. The Toyota stays flatter around corners than the softer Focus, which was described as ‘spongy in its reactions’ by one tester.
Value for money
Corolla
Focus
Any car wanting to sell in significant numbers needs to excel in the value-for-money stakes. Here, the Corolla is the clear winner. Although the purchase price is high, history shows that the Corolla is likely to be easier to sell come resale time. With its standard five-year/90 000 km ToyotaCare maintenance plan, running costs are also likely to be lower than the Ford’s. And Toyota has a better reputation for aftersales care.
