It is correct the back space is pretty small with limited legroom when compared to other vehicles in the similar class with class-leading legroom, such as the Nissan Sylphy. However, it's not too bad. It depends a lot on how much the front seats are pushed back. At 5'11", if you are the driver, then your passengers at the back seat may feel a bit uncomfortable. However, if he/she is around 5'8" or below, then there should be enough space behind for a decently comfortable ride, even if it is a long journey outstation. The back seat is a a bit straight, but the seats are quite thick and plush, not the thin type.

Of course, don't compare with the likes of Nissan Sylphy or Toyota Altis. These vehicles are built for passenger comfort, but in areas of handling and performance, they are no match for the Focus. It depends on what you are looking for and what criteria are more important to you - back space comfort which is more to your passengers, or handling and driving dynamics which driver-orientated. You should judge on the build quality of the Focus too apart from high levels of drivability. The fit and finish are higher than the rest of the competitors in the similar price range.

Yes, Mazda3, in my opinion, is overpriced. If back seat space is important to you, then you may consider the upcoming new Nissan Sylphy and the cheapest Toyota Altis model, which I think the rear legroom will be larger than the Focus. Both should be less than RM120k. I only have experience with Sylphy. It is a comfortable and quiet car and rear legroom and space is the largest in its class.

However, you mention you have a child. Depending on the size of the kid, perhaps the back seat can accomodate up to 12-year olds fairly comfortably? If large adults, if the driver is 5'11" then passengers sitting at the back will be uncomfortable. For short journeys still okay. Long journeys not recommended.

Noted. Reason I mentioned Sylphy and Altis is because they have the best rear legroom or space in this segment which is important to you with good comfort. The Cerato's interior is ok but the exterior, the front looks weird and the rear especially those seeping tail lights look to feminine for my taste. Most importantly, the Koreans are not known to have good drivability. Anyway, I don't dig the Koreans.

Golf Mk7 is more to a performance car and if I'm not mistaken is >RM150k which is significantly costlier than the Focus. And yes, reliability and service of VW seems to get a lot of criticism. Not many choices if you are looking in the RM110k-140k price range.