4 Star Reviews for 2005 Ford Focus

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.47/5 Average
310 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The new model year ushers in some significant changes for the 2005 Ford Focus. Exteriors have been updated with revised fascias and trim, and the car's oddball interior design has been replaced by more sedate and sophisticated furnishings. Last year's diverse engine lineup has been scrapped in favor of an all-new PZEV-rated 2.0-liter power plant good for 136 horsepower. A performance-oriented ST sedan has been added to take the place of the discontinued SVT Focus hatchbacks; it features a 151-hp incarnation of last year's excellent 2.3-liter PZEV engine. The 2.3-liter loses its squeaky-clean PZEV rating, however. In other news, the typically confusing array of trim levels and packages has been organized into logical and consistent trim lines, standardized across all body styles. New audio systems, increased interior storage and tweaked suspension tuning round out this year's midcycle makeover.

Pros:
  • Spacious and comfortable interior, fun-to-drive character, sharp steering, smooth ride, impressive selection of body configurations and features.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 310.00
  • Great little Wagon, Very Dependable - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    Had it new since 05. Zippy, handles well, decent gas mileage (around 20 in the city, better than 30 on the highway). Have had NO breakdowns or any mechanical issues - an EXTREMELY dependable car. Good points -Front seats are very comfortable. Lots of pep. Brakes smoothly and the brake replacement intervals are quite long. Heat and A/C work great. Good cargo space in the back, especially for a small wagon. Decent in the snow. Stock sound system is okay. Bad points - not much room in the back seat. Cloth seats stain easily. Some body creaks that drive me nuts. Build quality could be better. Tail and brake light sockets distorted from light bulb heat.

  • More than expected - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    With the understanding that the Focus was an econobox, I purchased one new from dealer in summer of 05. After 4+ years ownership, it has performed without fail and has proven itself to be a very capable daily commuter, with occasional weekend duties as a hauler. I drive 45+ miles daily, and feel quite comfortable with the amenities it has. I especially enjoy the small footprint yet torquey responsive engine. I can zip easily throughout traffic, yet blend in as necessary. The hauling capacity is quite surprising for such a small car on the exterior. People at my landfill have expressed their amazement at how much I can fit in the back. Its very durable and capable - I recommend it.

  • not bad so far - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    I am the 3rd owner of this Focus wagon and bought it for mpg and interior space. Best mileage was 34 hwy and worst was 22 city mpg. I average about 27 mpg. Only problem was a rear door latch failed which was recalled and inspected long before I bought it. Ford refused to reimburse me and it cost me $350 to have it replaced. There are a few interior rattles, especially in winter.

  • the - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    from my first shift in this car I have disliked the clutch (alot).This car is not ment for any serious preformance driving but is fun to drive around town.The gas mileage has not been what was listed on the sticker or what I had hoped for.I do receive lots of compliments on the new styling (compared to the old focus) and the front/center mounted antena is very "euro".Should have bought a Honda but i have never seen a civc rally car!

  • fun to drive - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    A fun to drive econobox. A sporty suspension, an engine with some spunk and all the amenities that make it as enjoyable to drive as my Miata.

  • Enjoyable Drive - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    Overall very pleased with my purchase. When looking to buy any model or year of focus be sure to check condition of bottom of doors interior and exterior especially behind rubber gasket that ford loves to use on all focuses. I didnt and was later surprised by the corrosion I found. Consellation is its relatively minimal and can fix it myself. Ford will not warranty the corrosion even though its clearly a design flaw. Common problem with the focus according to reviews all over the internet.

  • Believe - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    Bought this wagon used with 32000 miles. It has 52k now. Really a great car for the $$. Maintenance is a breeze, very accessable oil filter, I hand screw on and off. Get 32-34 mpg hwy and 24-26 city. Wagon is great for hauling stuff, I could sleep in if economy totaly folds -) Its like a mini minivan/suv that gets 30+ mpg on hwy. Around town easy to park. Dont understand the bad reviews from others but they had bad experiences....I had a 1991 escort before this.....got 200,000 miles on it, and it was still running great when I traded in on this Focus.....Ford is the leader in Europe and Brazil on Fuel effeciency and they sell tons in those countries. Im a believer.

  • Nice car - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    98,000 miles so far. Replaced alternator and battery at 60,000 miles. No other problems. 38 mpg. Very fast vehicle, good acceleration. With the manual tranny it is quite sporty and handles well. I will buy another after this one has 200,000 on it. Its been to California (from East Coast) and is my 134 mile a day commuting car.

  • Best Choice for the Price - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    I have owned many dozens of Fords. I traded-off a 2003 Ranger FX4 for the Focus. My wife and I test drove every make of vehicle before deciding, and the last two choices were a BMW 3 series or the Focus. The BMW was without question better in performance, handling and comfort, but not $20,000.00 better. I drive the car to work daily and average around 28-29 mpg in town. On the highway the mileage can jump to 34 mpg or better. The car is almost paying for itself on gasoline savings alone. The main selling points for me were the leg room, handling, pretty good pep especially for passing on the highway, and over all comfort. For a drive-to-work car, it has been very good.

  • Great 1st Car for a Teen - 2005 Ford Focus
    By -

    Trying to find a reasonably proced low mileage used Honda/Toyota/Nissan is impossible, so we tried the Ford Focus and it was the best thing we could have done. We found our 2005 ZX4-SES complete with every option except leather seats for under $9300 w/tax/prep. Just a great car for a first timer like my teenage daughter- came with ABS and side air bags. Great MPG as well-she loves it ! Cjeap to run, cheap to keep and it just goes and goes and goes.

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