Morning all and thanks for allowing me on this forum. I like 'older' cars (2008 - 2014'ish); presently I own an older X Type Jaguar Diesel estate (based on a Mondeo) but, I have always hankered after a Focus manual estate (I like an estate, long story!). I am looking for some tips please, which year, model, etc., and anything to look out for (for example on older diesel Jag's the clutch is a £1k+ job so always buy one with a good clutch!). I prefer a manual gearbox.  Budget would be around £7k maximum. Thank you all.

I have researched 'Google' and can't find any major issues (like, for example timing chain issues for C Class Mercs/BMW's), so all looks promising. Any pointers for things to look out for (weak trim etc?) Thanks.

The Focus is in general a very reliable car. Yes you will always get a few with problems but probably less than other makes and models. Buy one with a higher spec, go for at least the Titanium model or better. I'm not sure why you feel that you want a manual these days when automatics have 7, 8 or even 9 speed gearboxs which makes them more economical to drive in real life. Again I would go for a decent size engine, keep away from crazzy 1.0 Litre units.

Speaking as a previous owner of a 2.5 litre AWD Jaguar X-Type estate, I can tell you the focus is a totally diffrent drive from the Jaguar, but just as enjoyable.

3 hours ago, unofix said:

The Focus is in general a very reliable car. Yes you will always get a few with problems but probably less than other makes and models. Buy one with a higher spec, go for at least the Titanium model or better. I'm not sure why you feel that you want a manual these days when automatics have 7, 8 or even 9 speed gearboxs which makes them more economical to drive in real life. Again I would go for a decent size engine, keep away from crazzy 1.0 Litre units.

Speaking as a previous owner of a 2.5 litre AWD Jaguar X-Type estate, I can tell you the focus is a totally diffrent drive from the Jaguar, but just as enjoyable.

Most people who prefer manual gearboxes don't do so for the economy. I'll be buying manuals as long as I possibly can.

Thanks both.  I take the point about an auto, it's just a personal preference thing (manual). You will notice my cover photo is a purple Fiesta; not mine but my son and his girlfriend needed a cheap reliable car; the 1.25 2008 is a revelation in reliability and value for money (£800!!). My local mechanic said to me that these era Fords are the best 'all round' cars now available, hence me looking for a Focus now. They seem to a great balance between value, reliability, ease of working on, parts prices, driver enjoyment. I will go for a higher spec car, its just finding one!!!  Anyone know of a Mk3 Focus Estate, Titanium X / Navigator (petrol), around 2014, let me know!!