Is The Medium Size Car Still The Car For Everyone?

I spend much of my time reviewing small cars, MPVs and Crossover SUVs, forgetting the most important sector - the medium small car - Citroen C4, Mazda 3, VW Golf. While the small car is said to be all you need, the Megane type car is said to be the car for everyone. It's certainly been the best selling sector.

Now we have the new Ford Focus for sale it's time to update my data for comparison. Cars in this class appear to have stopped growing and settled around 4.3/4m in length. The Vauxhall Astra dimensions at 4.42m seem to be the maximum size. Over the past two years the fuel consumption, emissions, performance and safety in this class have significantly improved. Although the prices of cars has significantly increased over the past two years you can still buy a Hyundai i30 or other makes' special limited editions for about £12,000.

Interior space in this class remains static with some boot capacities shrinking which is probably due to improving rear end protection. Another thing to watch out for is all round visibility which is poor on some models. This is due to styling and safety improvements. Back and rear windows on many models have shrunk due to the window sills and shoulder lines sweeping up at the rear. The view can then be obstructed by huge door posts, wide rear quarter panels and thickly framed tailgates. High-backed seats and chunky headrests don't help.

You'll find all the cars in this class are very similar as they would be given they're all the same size. They all seem to have the same type of trim and engine options. The only differences are branding and your taste in style and comfort. You could divide this sector into value, popular and value brands.

Is something like a Ford Focus the car for everyone?

This type of car is a handy size and it's fairly easy to find an end-on parking space. Personally I think all the cars in this class are stylish. Inside they comfortably seat four. Boots sizes are good with most SUVs and some MPVs offering little improvement unless their rear seats are folded. The joy of owning this type of car is most perform strongly and have amazing handling, road-holding and stability. With improved fuel consumption and emissions the medium small car remains highly competitive and always worth a look and definitely a drive.

Regards
Ralph