This… is the 2013 Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Titanium. On the face of it, a sensible family hatchback. A car you buy with your head, not your heart. But then you drive it, and you realise why the Focus has been the benchmark for nearly every other hatchback for the last 20 years. When new, this Titanium spec car cost around £21,000 – which wasn’t exactly pocket money, but for that you got a proper driver’s car. The 2.0-litre diesel engine serves up 163 horsepower, which means 0–60 in under 9 seconds. Not bad for something with five doors, a big boot, and enough cupholders to host a coffee morning. Spec? Well, being a Titanium, it’s loaded. You’ve got dual-zone climate control, cruise control, keyless start, a posh Sony DAB stereo, heated windscreen, auto lights, auto wipers, alloys, Bluetooth – basically, everything you actually want in real life, without the fluff. Fuel economy? Up to 67 mpg combined, which means you can drive to Scotland, back, and then do the school run all week before even thinking about filling up. Insurance? Group 20, so it won’t sting too much. ULEZ? Sadly, no – it’s Euro 5 diesel, which means London will take a cut if you venture inside the zone. But here’s the thing: drive it down a twisty road, and you’ll see why motoring journalists always loved the Focus. The steering is sharp, the chassis balanced, and it doesn’t feel like you’re herding a sofa down the road – unlike some of its rivals. So, if you want a car that’s practical, economical, well-equipped and still fun to drive, this is it. The Ford Focus Titanium. It’s the sensible choice… that doesn’t make you feel boring.