Focus Titanium vs Cruze SRi-V

[johnydep]

Hi all,

Out to purchase a second car, we had our minds made up on a black Cruze SRi-V. Then I threw a spanner in the works by discovering that the new Focus is a huge improvement on the previous model, and booked a test drive.

The dealer only had the Sport available for a drive, this model is an identical match (smooth & quiet is the priority) to the Cruze, handles pot holes and bumps identically. However, I've read many reviews that say that the Titanium's 18 inch wheels give the Focus a harsher ride than the 17's and also increases the turning circle. I'm contemplating ordering the Titanium with the Sport's 10x2 wheels instead, but just wanted to check with current owners what their view is on drive quality.

A couple of things the Holden does better:

1) 7 inch Sat Nav is fantastic, compared to the Ford Bosch unit - anyone know whether Ford will be using the bigger screen from Europe?
2) Sound system not as clear at the upper levels (same when purchased Ghia Terri, but improved with use).
3) Full leather seats.
4) Turbo engine
5) Rear seat comfort
6) Rear window goes all the way down.

Ford does better:

1) Climate control.
2) Electric driver seat.
3) Self dimming rear vision mirror.
4) Fuel economy
5) Sedan boot hinges.
6) Shape will age better.