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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  Im Still Happy - 2012 Ford Focus
  By Jim - July 20 - 7:10 am

  First off, let me say that this car has a dual-clutch PowerShift Transmission. Its not an automatic transmission where you have a torque convertor and you simply step on the gas and go. You have to learn to drive this car with your right foot. Its not rocket science, and keeping the car in the right RPM range for the task at hand is pretty simple. I cant help but think that a lot of the folks who have problems with the way it drives have 2 skills: Stomp on the gas or stomp on the brakes. After 42,000 miles the car drives just fine, and with a little right foot control can be a lot of fun to drive. Im getting 30 MPG in mixed driving, and other than oil changes and keeping the tires inflated to the proper pressure ( the original tires are still in good shape at this juncture) have had zero problems with the car. I like the interior, I like the way the car looks, and I like the way it drives. Guess Im just lucky.

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  "I thought I was going to die driving this car" - 2014 Ford Focus
  By Cindy - July 15 - 7:04 pm

  I have always purchased Ford products in the past but, I am really re-thinking did I get a lemon with this 2014 this Ford Focus You should feel safe when you drive a new car not worried about it bogging down on the road. I have taken my new car in twice now, once the dealership replace the clutch and now they replace the transmission modules. The dealership told me right off the bat there is backlog of cars waiting for a new clutches again. I drive on the highway and was horrified when I tried to get car to speed up so a semi-truck could get off the ramp and my car acted liked the transmission stuck in gear. I am scared to take my grandkids in my car just in case the transmission locks up and caused a wreck that could hurt them. If Ford can fix the problems in a timely manor either by putting another transmission in or they should have to buy the cars back from the customers for want they paid for them. Buyer beware please do research before you buy this type of car for your own safety.

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  I mean, itll get you halfway there at least - 2015 Ford Focus
  By Zack S. - July 15 - 2:38 pm

  Despite it getting great gas mileage and the interior being very spacious for the size of the car, the car is far from a glorious car. No matter how you drive the car, the engine will give out easily. The engine or transmission is bound to blow. The interior is spacious, but it is also very, very, very cheap feeling. Everything in aide is made of cheap low grade plastic and does not have a very pleasant feel. The steering wheel is the only part of the interior that feels like any effort went into finding a proper material for it.

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  Bad Decision - 2012 Ford Focus
  By denise chiles - July 14 - 4:31 pm

  Ive had one problem after another. The door trim fell out, had to buy battery for remote key, Tires had to be replaced, all four in first year. Now my car wont start, no jump works, just wont start! Lights, radio, all electronics work, so far, just wont start-REALLY FORD! This car is a lemon! My sister has same make and model hers stop for no reason also. Ford after 3 times in shop finally told her its a transmission modular. I hate to find out what mine is.

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  Waste of my time... - 2014 Ford Focus
  By VMT - July 13 - 4:14 pm

  ... (trying to get this fixed) and money. This model has a dual clutch and it starts "shuddering" around the 7k mark. I was told by the dealership that it needed a new clutch (warranty) so a new clutch was put in. After another 7k miles the new clutch is doing the same thing. Took it back to the dealership and they said the PCM/TCM software needed updating. Ok... but it didnt fix it the problem. Now awaiting another new clutch. Ive been told that there are 50!!!! Focus at that dealership waiting for a new clutch and they only get a couple in each month. Its been over a month and they still dont have a clutch for my car. This clutch issue apparently has been going on since the 2011s. WHY didnt the dealership tell/warn buyers so we could make an informed decision??? WHY cant the dealership get in a clutch that will fix the issue permanently? WHY dont they just give us a new transmission without the dual clutch??? This car is a P.O.S. and not surprising, despite the name.. it isnt considered American made!

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  My first new car! - 2015 Ford Focus
  By Natalie - July 13 - 12:54 pm

  My parents bought me this car for my 18th birthday early 2015. As soon as I saw the car at the dealership, I knew it would be perfect. As a newer driver, I wanted to be driving a car that was not only easy to drive and gets good gas mileage, but is safe and comfortable as well. The Ford Focus Hatchback SE meets all those expectations. Originally we planned on getting a 2014 Ford Focus, but the 2015 was only about $1k more so we decided to get the newest model. The car itself is very sporty, with black and silver rims as well as paddle shifters on the steering wheel (for those who would like to drive the car in the optional sport/manual mode). The cloth interior is very durable and comfortable. The radio, bluetooth, and climate control are also user friendly for those who may not be used to having more technology in their car. Driving the hatchback is smooth, and especially quiet on the freeway or on bumpier roads. The one thing I found surprising in this car is the sensitivity of the accelerator you do not have to press down hard on it for the car to accelerate quickly. The only downside to the car is the leg room for the back seats. However, it wont matter as much if you are driving with one or two other people. There is a ton of trunk space, which can even fit a couple sets of golf clubs/bags. This car is great, and perfect for newer drivers and students.

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  P.O.S. - 2014 Ford Focus
  By Ron m. - July 10 - 4:00 pm

  I purchased my 2014 Ford Focus in May of 2014. I liked the car at first, but in the first few days of driving it, I noticed the quirkiness of the automatic transmission. When I was test driving the car the salesman told me not to punch it because the engine was not broke in yet. But now I know why. It was because the car will hesitate we attempting to quickly take off from a stop. And the hesitation is significant. At the 3,000 mile mark, the fuel pump in the gas tank went out, leaving me stranded. I had to have it towed back to the dealer to have them install a new fuel pump (Under warranty). At the same time I had them replace one of the back passenger windows because of a scratch inside the glass itself (Also fixed under warranty). Now at the 10,000 miles, the car is starting to shudder when in slow traffic. Theres also a clunk sound when accelerating from a slow speed. Ill never buy a Ford again, and Edmunds needs to re-think their review of this car. I should change my review to a two star rating but Ive already spent too much time on this POS.

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  Go for it if you enjoy mental torment... - 2012 Ford Focus
  By Ty - July 8 - 10:13 am

  ... at every turn. I bought this car in the winter of 2013. I enjoyed it for its lovely ride and handling. It was very good in the icy twist backs of Idahos Sawtooth Mountains. However, this is where it ends. First problem was the transmission, it shuddered very roughly in reverse and driving forward off the line. Ive taken it in about 4 times at this point. I took it to billings, Montana and it stalled, leaving me stranded for 3 days while no one could find the problem. One clutch pack replacement later at 45k its been decent, however now at 82k its shuddering again(thank god for the extended warranty). It threw a tie rod at 72k nearly flipping the car. Then the sync module dies. And now the starter/ignition has left me stranded 2 times only to have it towed into the shop where it is now day 6 and no one can figure out the problem. Also a minor nitpick, Ford needs to change their fuel economy numbers for this car as I only return 22mpg in mixed driving. Keep in mind Ive had this car for one year Ford certainly has made an excellent torture device. College student or anyone looking for that constant anguish and embarrassment, look no further.

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  Do your homework. - 2014 Ford Focus
  By atxaggie - June 30 - 8:22 pm

  I got thrown into buying this car for $12,000 with 14,000 miles. I originally thought that how it changed gears was just how I was driving in traffic. Until the other day when I was driving in traffic home from work and my car jolted forward. I googled and found out that my car was recalled last year and that these transmission issues are common. I called Ford to see when I could take my car in and the guy talked to me as if I was a stupid girl. They wont give me a loaner car either, even though this is their fault.

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  Stay Away! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By jpspa - June 29 - 12:10 pm

  Had a 2012 Focus and experienced the same transmission issues others have described- jerky, hesitation, lunging- which Ford apparently still has not fixed. Finally the transmission died completely and car wouldnt go at all. When fixed", I got rid if it right away- not worth the trouble. Ill never buy another Ford, who should be prosecuted for selling this piece of junk and not recalling them.