2003 Ford Focus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.28/5 Average
353 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Minor changes are in store for the 2003 Ford Focus. Two new trim levels increase the breadth of prices for Ford's economy car; a base trim for the three door hatchback renders air conditioning optional and only comes with a manual transmission. For the five door hatchback, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, front reading lights and a center console are available when you step up to the comfort trim level from the base level. Heated front seats are a new option, as is a traction control and ABS package. New colors for the exterior brighten up the color palette, and the interior is freshened with two new fabric trims. Finally, a CD/MP3 player is now standard on the ZX3 and ZX5. A SVT version of the ZX5 is also scheduled to appear later in the year.

Pros:
  • Thoughtful ergonomics, large interior, smooth ride, sharp steering, impressive selection of body configurations and features.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 353.00
  • Wont buy a Ford again - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Bought my car new and was fine until after I passed the "Lemon Law" limit. I only have 61000 miles on my car. Ive had nothing but problems with my car! In the shop constantly. Transmission went out, had radio replaced 6 times, now have an after market radio paid for by Ford, alternator and cellunoid went out, blower motor went out, mold in my A/C x 2 and getting poorer gas mileage. It makes the weirdest noises that my local dealer cant always find the cure for. Never did get the gas mileage it claimed to get. I purchased the extended warranty and was so glad I did! Id be in the "Poor House" now if I hadnt.

  • solid choice - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    If you are thinking of buying a compact car, take a look at the Ford Focus. I looked at Hondas and Toyotas but settled on a beige 4 door Focus SE, and I have been really happy with this car. The ride is smooth and comfortable, as is the interior/seating. The exterior styling has grown on me, and now I am stoked on it. The trunk is freakin huge, big enough for trips or a trip to the grocery store. I got a 6 disc in dash player and this is worth the extra cash. Very safe car with the family in mind. You just cant lose on this car--especially with Ford offering mad cash back on the Focus, go get one!

  • Upgrade - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I traded my less than one-year-old 02 Focus ZTW for one of these babies in Pitch Black. Its hard to believe that they belong to the same family. Dont get me wrong, the little wagon was extremely competent and reliable and always a sweet ride. The 5- doors SVT is in a whole together different league, hard to compare. I have had the car for less than a week so I am rating 10 to all items in the survey. If I change my mind I will let you know

  • Our third Ford, and its a Charm - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    We decided to retire our 1996 Ford Escort and give it to our son. We researched the Ford Focus LX Sedan, found a great deal from the internet service manager...and went to purchase. We found a beautiful color which we call seafoam green and Ford calls Terra. Received a $3,000 rebate at time of purchase, great incentives, power train warranty...the whole shebang.

  • Why did I buy this car? - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I have owned the car since new and have been battling problems ever since. The problems range from mechanical to customer service. The first winter I owned the car it would not start several times. I called the dealership and was told that this was "normal". The entire exhaust system needed replaced at 10,000 miles. The drivers side window developed several large scratches that the cause could not be explained by the dealership. Ford is unwilling to replace. The scratches continue to get worse. Lots of squeaks and rattles after only 34K miles. I wish I would have shopped around more. For the same $22K I could have bought an RSX Type S and had much better resale value.

  • 2.3 PZEV ZX3 Focus 5 speed - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    This car has been great. 63,000 miles (owned since new) and the engine has yet to sputter with hesitation. Average low 30s mpg and the highest Ive got so far is 41mpg from San Diego to San Jose. More than adequate power and it has never had one problem!

  • Go and Get One! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Well I purchased this car about 3 days ago, and I love it. I am a 64 person with plenty of room in this car. It has a very sporty European look, which will turn heads. The car has great handling and shifts nicely. (I have a 5 speed) The PZEV engine has some nice power for a 4 cylinder, plus you are helping the enviroment. Dont listen to those negative reviews, go out and get one today...

  • Neat little car! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I did own a 1999 Ford Escort and was involved in a serious triple roll over accident. We were told that people do not survive such accidents. My car was totaled but my 83 yo mother and I survived with minor injuries. Since the Escort is no longer made, I chose the replacement for Escort, the Focus. It is a fun car, easy to handle, and sits higher making it easier to exit it!

  • KLW REVIEW - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    GREAT VEHICALE FOR THE PRICE.

  • One year later. - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Its been a year since my SVT spent nearly 30 days in the shop getting virtually everything fixed; the dealer made good on finishing what Ford started. Ive had a lot of Fords and theyve all started off a basket case but with a lot of work & patience a Ford can be a decent car. If you can get past the depreciation & initial quality problems, the true nature of what the SVT guys were trying to do comes out. The SVTF is THE best equipped mini-sport car available below $30,000. Theyre comfortable, ride nice and are very competent. Theyre NOT drag cars, but still fast enough to be fun.

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