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Ford Focus Zetec TDCi

Lessons with Paul are done in a brand new, luxurious and sporty 2008 Ford Focus Zetec TDCi. This car comes fitted with many gadgets and features to help keep you safe that you just won't find on basic cars used by many instructors but they can be turned off if you don't want to use them. The car Paul uses is changed every 12 months so you'll always be driving the latest model.

Some people ask me why i use such an expensive and powerful car to teach in. The answer is that sadly, 1 in 5 new drivers are killed or seriously injured within 12 months of passing the driving test and this is often because they are so used to driving a tiny car with a tiny engine then they go out and buy a more powerful car that they just aren't ready to handle. It makes more sense to learn in a more powerful car while you're with an expert advanced driver so you are better prepared to handle anything once you've passed.

ESP (Electronic Stability program) - If you move off too quickly or take a bend too fast then the car adjusts the power to each wheel to avoid spinning out of control. While you're driving, a computer is monitoring sensors on various parts of the car and as soon as control is lost the computer takes over to keep you on the road. Anti Lock Brakes are fitted to avoid skidding when braking and electronic brake force distribution helps with smoother braking.

Winter kit - Not only the back window is heated but also the front windscreen, mirrors, washer jets and the heater runs off an auxiliary power supply so it works even if the engine is cold. Great visibility is essential for safe driving and you're able to see clearly no matter what the weather. A warning system in the car tells you when there is ice on the road and how bad it is likely to be. Air conditioning also helps to keep windows clear. 

Adjustable power steering - You can select how light or stiff you want the steering to be from three settings. Choose from "Comfort" for light steering around town, "standard" which is slightly stiffer for motorways and gives more stability or "sports" for responsive steering on fast, winding roads.

Onboard computer - Monitor your performance by seeing your average fuel consumption, average speed and other details. The computer can show you how economical driving can save you a fortune in fuel. Economy driving is marked on the driving test from 10th September 2008 so this gives you a huge benefit over learners without this system.

Comfortable interior - The wheel, gear stick, handbrake and dash are all in leather meaning you avoid cuts and sores on your hands associated with plastic interiors on cheap cars. The sports seats hug you and you won't roll about on corners while armrests on either side make you comfortable while sitting still. The seat can move up, down, in, out, be made stiffer or softer and the steering wheel can move up, down, in and out. Whether your lessons are long or short, you'll always be comfortable and in the best driving position. There's plenty of leg room and this car has been used to teach pupils from 5`0 to 6`8" in height with no problems.

Sports Kit - The car is made to look beautiful with alloy wheels, spoilers, body coloured handles and mirrors, sports interior, dark headlight light surrounds and clear tailgate lights. The sports suspension gives you a more fun and responsive drive by making the car stick to the road at speed.

TDCI engine - The Duratorq TDCI  engine is a £1500 upgrade and is much less likely to stall than engines found in small cars due to having much more power and torque. It is responsive and can make it far easier when pulling onto roundabouts and doing high speed driving. The turbo charger helps you accelerate on open, winding roads and can make driving much safer by giving you that extra boost when you need to overtake or join a fast road. TDCI stands for Turbo Diesel Common-rail Injection.

Sat Nav  - Before or after you pass your test, you may wish to try sat nav out. Not only does it tell you where to go but also gives you valuable information such as warnings of sharp bends, speed limits and junctions up to half a mile before you reach them. It makes driving more fun, you can choose the voice that will guide you including Ozzy Osbourne, John Cleese or Darth vader to make a boring journey more enjoyable.

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Pictures are for illustration only. Actual car is very slightly different

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