The DCT of the Focus isn't really "problematic" as some people would have suggested. As a matter of fact, I do not have issues with the transmission of the car at all now. The "problematic" comment had mainly come up due to the juddering of the vehicle at low speeds. I don't experience this anymore after the software upgrade.

For me, based on my observation there are two weaknesses in this new Focus. They are not exactly critical and will vary with expectations. Some might be absolutely fine with it while some might not be so receptive. My observations are as follows:-

1) Noise from the suspension - the suspension of the Focus is not very quiet on bad roads. There is a certain rattling sound from the suspension as if hollow plastic bottles are hitting against each other when the vehicle goes over bad roads or concrete ramps with grooves in building car parks.

2) Grinding sound - at low speed especially when going uphill, sometimes there is grinding sound (from the gearbox?). The sound is like a bunch of gears or metal plates grinding against each other.

Of course, just by reading on these complaints makes one think that the vehicle is "problematic". Nevertheless, these can be non-critical issues to most people. As picky and critical as a person I am, I can still live with these anomalies in the Focus. On good roads or highways, there is NO noise from the suspension. Absolutely quiet. As for the grinding sound, currently it doesn't come up too frequently(it only does at low speeds), and even if it does, the sound is not very loud, yet. In order to hear these noises, the stereo or sound system of the vehicle needs to be switched off. If music is playing at low to moderate volumes, you won't hear these noises anymore.

The main strength of the Focus. If you love a bit of sporty handling and driving dynamics in a practical sedan or hatchback, the Focus will deliver the goods. I have not driven many vehicles before but the Focus surely nails it when it comes to power and performance. One of my colleague who happens to own the Focus also shares the same view although he is like me, equally critical of the noise from the suspension. In most cars, the faster you drive the more unstable the vehicle gets. In the Focus, the faster you drive the more stable it gets. Somehow defies logic but that is my experience. At higher speeds, the car seems to stick onto the roads more effectively. The car feels rock solid and stable at these higher speeds and does not wobble. Somehow it just gives the driver a feeling of confidence when taking the car out for a spin, especially when the going gets tough. Around twisty roads and bends, body roll is minimal in comparison to most Japanese equivalents. You just feel in control of the vehicle if you love to drive at a bit higher than normal speeds.

The Focus is also a powerful car in its class. In the most difficult or demanding conditions the Focus rarely fails, up a steep slope along the highways or the twisty steep bends up Genting Highlands. The acceleration and instantaneous burst of power of the Focus(other than driving dynamics as mentioned above) are superb. You won't feel the power to be lacking in this vehicle.

When it comes to handling, I believe there are not many vehicles that can touch the Focus other than "fun cars", cars that are specifically tuned to be sporty in nature. Bearing in mind the Focus is a normal passenger vehicle that is practical for everyday use, it also delivers if the driver loves a bit of thrill and excitement in the drive. Fun cars that have superior handling are usually not very comfortable due to the harder suspension setup and sports seats etc. The Focus may not be as comfortable as say the Toyota Altis or Nissan Sylphy (comfort-tuned suspension, comfortable and plusher seats, more generous rear legroom for passengers at the back seat), but it presents the best of both worlds in practicality and performance.

Test-drive with confidence.

bro may I ask you what's the procedure of buying RS car plate? I also plan to buy but I'm in Melaka. Can we just go to JPJ in any state to buy or need to use a runner?