Overview & Reviews

Introduced more than a decade ago, the Ford Focus was one of the first small cars from a domestic automaker that was truly competitive with traditionally more dominant models from Japan. An affordable price, sharp handling, expressive styling and availability in multiple body styles all contributed to making this one of Ford's most popular cars worldwide.

Since that time, Ford has gone on to introduce second and third generations of the Focus. Sadly, the second generation lost a lot of the mojo built up by the original, first-generation model and is hard to recommend as a used car. However, Ford has refocused its efforts for the latest Focus, and as such it stands as one of our top picks for a small hatchback or sedan.

Current Ford Focus
Available in sedan and four-door hatchback body styles, the Ford Focus boasts eye-catching styling and a sharply designed interior fitted with high-quality materials. There are three main trim levels: S, SE and Titanium, as well as an electric version. The high-performance Focus ST is reviewed separately.

The only engine available is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, the latter actually being a dual-clutch automated manual. Fuel economy is very good no matter what you pick, and with the available Super Fuel Economy package, the Focus earns a 33-mpg-combined estimate from the EPA.

If you don't want to use any gas at all, there's the Focus Electric, which is strictly battery-powered like Nissan's Leaf. Propelled by a 107-kilowatt (143-hp) electric drive motor and powered by a 23kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Focus Electric has an estimated range of about 76 miles between charges. It can be recharged in just 4 hours from a 240-volt power source. Owners can also keep tabs on their electric Focus' charging state via smartphone integration.

Even the base Focus S comes with air-conditioning, full power features, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. Moving up through the trims gets you luxuries such as Ford's Sync voice-activated phone/audio interface, leather upholstery, a power driver seat, keyless ignition and entry, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. There's also MyFord Touch, which features a large center touchscreen that minimizes button clutter. Options include a navigation system and an automated parallel parking assist system.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Focus' refined road manners. Handling is sharp, with little body lean in the corners, while the steering is communicative and fairly quick. The ride is firm but well controlled over bumps. The 2.0-liter engine deserves praise as well, as it provides above-average performance and fuel economy. Changing gears with the five-speed manual transmission adds to the fun, though a sixth gear would be appreciated on longer freeway jaunts. The automatic is the one fly in the Focus' driving ointment, as it upshifts too quickly and is reluctant to downshift unless the throttle pedal is mashed to the floor.

Inside, the Focus boasts excellent materials, supportive seats and a hushed environment. Relative to its competitors, though, the backseat is a little cramped and the electronics interface can be unintuitive. But all in all, the Focus is a well-rounded, well-built economy car that is easy to recommend.

Used Ford Focus Models
A complete redesign of the Focus took place for 2012, and this generation represents massive improvements in the areas of cabin quality, overall performance and high-end features availability. Apart from subsequent minor equipment and trim level shuffling, these Foci are similar to the current model. The Focus Electric debuted for 2012.

The second-generation Focus ran from 2008-'11. It was available in coupe and sedan body styles until the final year, when only the sedan was offered. More squared-off styling distinguished it from the first Focus. Motivation was provided by a 2.0-liter inline-4 making 140 hp (130 in California-emissions states) hooked up to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Originally, the trim levels included base S, midgrade SE and sporty SES for both body styles. Ford's Sync system, which allowed voice control over cell phones and the audio system, was available and unusual for the economy car segment.

The following year the coupe's front fenders lost their glitzy chrome trim, and the trim levels were shuffled. Coupes were available in SE and SES trims, while the sedan came in S, SE, SES and leather-lined SEL trims. Stability control became optional but then was made standard for 2010.

A used Focus from this generation makes for a value-packed choice, but most competitors were stronger vehicles overall. It offered solid and reliable transportation with a few notable perks like the available Sync system, but the cabin lacked the more upscale materials quality that segment front-runners had. And although it offered a reasonably pleasant driving experience along with excellent fuel economy, its handling wasn't as finely honed as that of some sportier rivals such as the Mazda 3.

When the Ford Focus debuted for 2000, it was available as a two-door hatchback (ZX3) or as a sedan (ZX4) or wagon (ZXW). The base engine was an anemic SOHC 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated for 110 hp, or a preferable DOHC 2.0-liter engine called the Zetec that was good for 130 hp. Transmission choices were a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. These earlier Focus models went through a variety of changes, many of which are important to pay attention to if you're looking for a used Focus. In particular, Ford continually tinkered with the car's trim levels and availability of standard and optional features. From 2000-'04, the trim levels were typically base LX, midgrade SE and high-line ZTS. Antilock brakes and front-seat side airbags were optional equipment, and stability control was offered for a few years starting in 2001.

For 2002, Ford added a four-door hatchback (the "ZX5"). Starting in '04, the Focus gained an available 2.3-liter inline-4 that offered 145 hp and cleaner emissions. A 170-hp four-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission were featured in the short-lived and rare Focus SVT hatchback. Coveted by young enthusiasts, the SVT Focus was offered as a hatchback from 2002-'04. For 2005, the Focus got a more modest refresh that provided cosmetic changes on the outside, a revised control layout inside and an updated engine lineup that included either a 136-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produced 151 hp (sedan only). The trim levels were renamed S, SE and SES. The wagon and hatchback were dropped after the '07 model year.

Our editors were quite fond of the Ford Focus in its earlier years, and the car earned Editors' Most Wanted award designations from 2000-'03. Although we consider the first-generation model a good, inexpensive buy on the used market, the Focus' reliability record hasn't been ideal, particularly regarding the 2000 models.

User Reviews:

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  Keep America rolling 911 car - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Daryl - April 9 - 3:07 pm

  This little One Owner yellow Focus was well loved from day one. I never lose it in a parking lot. It was purchased just after the attack on 911 to keep America rolling. It still runs great after 162,000 miles. It has had a few expected repair issues over the years. The biggest repair in 2014 the fuel pump was replaced. "Car blows a fuse and stalls when the fuel pump is going bad". 2016 Current known defects - A/C failed for the first time, passenger power window sticks unless you open the driver side door. Small one inch rust spot on the hood and truck edge. Minor oil leak. Otherwise I still love the car. The seats are comfortable. It is a little noisy but it is a small car.

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  perille tires - 2007 Ford Focus
  By eliz3618 - April 9 - 12:00 pm

  we leased a 2007 ford focus and returned it 2 weeks ago to purchase a 2009tord fusion. To our shock, we recd a bill from FMC stating we owe$600.00 for overuse of the perille tires. We have always leased, and never have we recd a bill for anything.,called other ford motor dealers and they stated the perille tires are only warranted for 1 yr..why is FMC putting tires on cars that they know in advance will not hold up.,we turned the car inw/31,000 miles, perille tire is suppose to be good for 40.000 miles. FMC is really shooting themselves in the foot because if we are forced to pay this, it will be the last ford we ever buy. what an insult to the consumer. tires were noisy & poor traction.

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  Fun Driving Workhorse - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Jay - April 9 - 10:00 am

  I originally bought my Focus for the gas mileage as I have a 190 mile round trip daily commute. The zippy engne, and great handling have been a nice suprise. With 30k miles in 11 months the quality has been consistant with no problems to report. Really a great car.

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  Gave American Autos a Chance - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Mike - April 9 - 6:57 am

  I decided to give American made vehicles another shot at my business. Ford did not fail me. I have owned my Focus for 3 years and havent had any mechanical or interior defects. The car looks and drives as well as it did the day I drove it off the lot. I had to get back on Edmunds and let anyone that could or would read this that my Ford experience has been fantastic. I am so pleased that I have found an American auto maker that is building a quality vehicle.

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  Great on gas 42 mpg on Avg - 2009 Ford Focus
  By Robert - April 7 - 8:10 pm

  The car is great on gas I have been getting in city 30 to 35 and 41 to 45 in Hgy. Just a fun car to drive.

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  I Love My Focus ZTS - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Mark - April 7 - 6:40 pm

  Ive had this car since January 01. Its fun to drive, handles very well, has excellent passenger room and trunk space. Good small car for mostly in-town use that I can take on a longer road trip and it doesnt beat me up. I only drive it 8000 miles per year so I might have it another 8 years if it holds up. Ive had some occasional minor but annoying throttle body sticking since I bought it. The dealer replaced it once under warranty, but it still sticks periodically.

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  Love this car! - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Cocotinne - April 5 - 7:59 pm

  Over all, this is the best car I ever owned once the back seats are folded, the trunk is so big, people dont believe what I put in it. I need space in the back and this car is perfect. I plan to keep it for a long time.

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  Love this car - 2007 Ford Focus
  By HARB - April 5 - 2:00 am

  Smaller on the outside, yet bigger on the inside compared to other cars in this category, both domestic and foreign. With a few options, this car gave me all I needed, at a very low price. I like the fact that a low mileage lease was offered.

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  In the shop - 2008 Ford Focus
  By cornbreed - April 4 - 11:17 pm

  My focus has 8000 miles on it. I take care of my cars. Face it you need a car to get you back in forth to work. while i was driving my foucus started making this popping sound? Then it sounded like the front drive train was going to fall out from under the car so i pulled over to check it out an the engine was viberating the hole car. took it to the shop to find out both motor mounts had broken. besides that its been a good little car.

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  SVT Focus is a high point for Ford - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Bryan Redeker - April 1 - 1:40 pm

  I bought my SVT Focus used from my dad after I sold my 2000 Focus ZX3. The SVT Focus is great to drive, both on the street, at autocrosses, and on the track. The Recaro seats are very supportive for cornering, and the brakes are perfect! Stomping the middle pedal really hauls the car down on the straight away. With the 6-speed gearbox, I pulled off 40 mpg on a highway trip. How many cars have HIDs, Recaro seats, 6-speed gear boxes, big brakes, and get 40 mpg! Only one, and that is the SVT Focus. Usual mileage is 32 combined. I love my Focus and it is one of the best compact cars ever made, and a high point for Ford!