The biggest issue I have with his decision, is that its cause the Scirroco is cheaper, but if he were to actaully try owning both for say a 3 year period, as is typical of a new car buyer it would be the Focus that would be cheaper.
Mainly due to the difference in depreciation.

Its all very well saving a couple of K to buy it, but if its 5K cheaper after 3 years then you are down not up, and thats before you look at different servicing costs etc.

If you are going to take cost into account, at least do so meaninfully IMHO