Just reading other threads discussing pricing of non-Vrs variants and seeing new focus st available for 20% off list even in estate format (which obviously didn't exist with mkii)looks like a serious competitor to the petrol vrs. The discount equates to £18-£21k for estate depending on trim level.

I looked at this and the fuel economy is supposed to be much better than the last model. Let's see what the new VRS costs and it's spec. Many people like myself bought the Octy because it was good vfm and a bit different.

I saw one of the new ST Estates at the weekend - it looked great, but the fuel economy isn't for me

I'd check out the seats in the ST - unless your called Frankie Detori you'll not fit in them - the back is very narrow.

I'd check out the seats in the ST - unless your called Frankie Detori you'll not fit in them - the back is very narrow.

+1. I'm slim but drove a Focus at work recently and the seats are very tight. Interior quality is also down on my current Octy.

Centre stack / controls remind me of an 80s Amstrad stereo. Plasticky and complicated.

VW group interiors are waaaaay ahead of Ford currently (IMO).

Checked out the Focus estate the other week after seeing the Octy III on launch weekend. Focus only has the rear legroom of my current Ocy FL. My next car needs some additional rear legroom for a growing family and the Octy III seemed ideal from that viewpoint. Even with the drivers seat in my usual far back position I had plenty of room to sit comfortably in the rear of the Octy III without having to try to fit my knees around the front seat. Even my daughter was happy about the prospect of a long trip sitting right behind me. Amazing what an extra 4 inches in the wheelbase will do.

The other issue with the Focus for me is the awful dash. There are buttons everywhere!

Only saw an Octy III in S trim and silver paint and was a bit underwhelmed. The new estate looks better than the hatch in my view. Now I've got to wait till July for the Vrs before deciding what to do!

With deals available for about £17k the Focus is a much more attractive proposition as a proper hot hatch. The Octavia has always been marketed a little differently though, so it's not really aimed at the same crowd. Expect the older drivers and those who want a bit more practicality to be drawn to the Octavia.

The Focus looks like a great all round package, but I still prefer the styling on the previous model.