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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  Very Happy Owner - 2008 Ford Focus
  By David A - June 19 - 1:33 am

  I test drove an 08 Sentra, an 08 Civic twice, and I rented a Corolla for a couple of days. I test drove the Focus twice and I liked it a lot more than the other cars I drove. I did a ton of research before getting this. I actually traded an 07 Toyota Avalon for this car and it was a great decision. The Avalon was in for rattles twice and still had rattles, and it was in the shop for several days over 2 visits with oxygen sensor issues. Now Im saving money on gas, insurance, and I actually like my car again. Nice ride, fun to drive, and great stereo.

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  Fun - 2007 Ford Focus
  By d-dave - June 18 - 11:08 am

  I bought this car for my daughter but find that Im driving it more because its fun to drive, nimble and great on fuel. Very unlike my first car, with moonroof, heated seats and CD player, its a blast to drive and a terific value.

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  Great car for the price - 2000 Ford Focus
  By jwo7777777 - June 18 - 8:15 am

  Handles like a good rally car. It can take corners at speed, but has a slightly higher ride height than other vehicles of the same size. I replaced the swaybar(stabilizer bar) bushings with stiffer polyurethane for a little less body roll. I have driven this vehicle for 7.5 years and have enjoyed it immensely. Sure, some things had to be fixed under recall, and some things broke that I had to pay for after the warranty ended, but overall I am happy. I have had worse experiences with cars I bought new. The bucket seats are built for average frames or smaller. Wide shouldered or heavier people (250+ lbs.) will notice marked problems after several years

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  Love my Focus! - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Jen - June 17 - 4:21 pm

  Ive been a truck girl my whole life, but had to go to a car for better fuel economy. It wasnt a hard switch. I can flip down the back seat and fill up the cargo area, tow a small trailer, put stuff on the roof rack or put passengers in the back comfortably - all while zipping around (zippy engine) getting great gas milage & being able to park anywhere! The ride is smooth & quiet, handles great, has comfortable roomy interior, and the exterior looks alot more stylish & modern than most other station wagons. Ive put on many miles, keep up on maintance, but have had no problems. It is very reliable. A very fun & versatile car, and consumer reports rates it tops. All & all, I love this car!

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  Worst car I have ever owned - 2013 Ford Focus
  By Gail - June 13 - 9:15 pm

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  Focus Follow-up - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Focus follow-up - June 13 - 1:36 pm

  After having the car a little over 1 1/2 months, 3000 miles and in the Texas heat of 95 deg here are my observations: 1) the A/C interuption during accellerations is annoying, especially if you just got in the car and it is not already pre cooled. 2) gas mileage averages 28-29.5 mpg with 50/50 driving type. More if A/C not used. 3) all else Im pretty happy with so far. The A/C deal was not a make or break for me when I was deciding whether to buy or not. The many other advantages out weigh this flaw.

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  Why did I buy this car? - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Jason - June 12 - 8:26 pm

  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.

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  I love my Focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By JediPrincess - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Its cute, its reliable and it looks good when youre driving it. This is one of the best cars Ive ever owned.

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  eat hondas for breakfast - 2004 Ford Focus
  By billmash - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is great!Anyone who is looking for a nimble hatch with lots of features has probably already been eyeballing this car.Dont let the ford badge deter you.Although this car is not as technologically advanced as the honda SI, let the SVT badge do all the talkin.All the reviews I have read have done this car justice, quick, well built, and great styling make this car very fun to drive.More room than the SI too.Lets not forget about aftermarket goodies!Cold air intakes, pulleys, superchargers, and body kits, I am sure will find thier way on to my car!!

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  sweet - 2004 Ford Focus
  By naterd - June 11 - 10:00 am

  congatulations to ford!bought ford focus 2-20-04. was somewhat apprehensive due to past reports.this car is great,fun to drive and well built this car rides better than my merceadies,was pleased to find out that consumer reports rated it #1 small car.