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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  Good All-round Value - 2005 Ford Focus
  By meginger - February 2 - 10:16 am

  The Focus ST is a good compromise on a sporty and fun to drive car with features, practicality and value. Visually it suggests performance, and it does perform well, but the high seating position and competent but long-throw shifter will disappoint if you are looking to maximize that aspect. Theres a lot to like: power, torque, no-brainer heated leather seats, spacious, a lot of car for the money after incentives. On the minus side gas mileage could be better, highway noise could be lower, rear sight lines could be better, needs light for rear seats, upshift from 2nd to 3rd is notchy, all season tires poor in snow even with traction control, large trunk with small opening.

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  My first car - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Denise - February 1 - 1:10 pm

  Purchased at 178000kms now almost at 300000kms. Never miss an oil change, well maintained. Problems began just after 200000 kms. My car began to studder while in gear. Changed the fuel filter, thought it could have been the gas. Nope. Changed leads and plugs thinking Im misfiring. Nope. One day went to start my car and it sounded horrible-in the end it was my timing belt, I needed an entire new engine as the belt had slipped and ruined the pistons and valves. A new rebuilt engine was put in. Now headlight socket on drivers side seems melted and the contacts no longer connect. Rear dr side door clasp jammed-no longer use that dr wont click closed. Replaced ignition key shaft as rollers seized

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  ZX5 - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Butler - February 1 - 10:00 am

  I Just love this car. Its my second Focus. Im a repeat buyer because my first one (a ZX3) was very good to me during the 70,000 Km I drove it!

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Beth T. - January 30 - 2:43 am

  The Ford Focus is definitely fun to drive, especially with the powerful engine that it has and its a smaller car. It runs so smooth. The design of the front driver side and passenger side doors are lousy. When I put my take out beverage in the door cupholder and then I went to roll up the window, my hand hit the beverage and pop went all over the door. When you roll the window up and down, your hand hits the maps in the map holder. Part of the door sticks out which is really awkward and annoying. There is no light inside in the middle to see the backseat. I also had a manual on my Ford Escort, but this is an automatic. I really wish I got a manual.

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  Mix of strengths and weaknesses - 2013 Ford Focus
  By GB - January 29 - 8:51 pm

  I bought my 2013 SE 5-speed manual with 2.0 engine used w/ 18,000 miles a year ago. Its a small, snazzy car that does most everything you need, but with flaws. Handles very responsively, but the ride is too stiff. Good engine and wind noise isolation, but significant road noise. Great gas mileage if you take it somewhat easy. Decent power from the 2.0L, like a go cart on the highway. Strengths: + Gas mileage (average 33-34, can get 40 on the highway) + Power from standard 2.0L engine + Stick shift (short throws) + Trunk size + Stability around turns + Interior (buttoned down, but... read below) + Steering feel (not numb, you can actually feel the road) + Engine and wind noise (not much of either) + Driving range (can get 400 miles on the highway) + Cruise control works excellently + Nice that it has auto-headlights and ALSO allows you to manually turn them off Weaknesses: - Ride (stiff! like a sports car) - Clutch (very tricky from 1st to 2nd, etc) - Road noise (LOTS of it) - Low-speed driving dynamics (wtf...) - Ergonomics (Ford doesnt get it) - Gear spacing on 5-speed - User interfaces (instrument panel, radio...) - Stereo (standard. May be the worst sounding, tinniest stereo Ive heard in a car, ever. Reception is also very disappointing) - Oversteers (very touchy, you can be in a ditch if youre not careful) - Back seats dont fold flat - Seat comfort (front seats seem experimental and wear on you) - Too much vibration at idle Ford got so many things right here - bravo for that. Great gas mileage. Decent power for a small car, though like most small engines, when you *really* punch it... nothing happens. Mostly good visibility. Buttoned down interior styling. Very nice shifter. Good road feel through steering (though perhaps a little too much feel). No lumbar adjustment, but seems to be Ok w/o it. Reliability has been good through 33k miles, only had the a seat belt retractor replaced for slight stickiness and a rattle fixed. Headrests are adjustable - a big deal for some. Happy with trunk space. The cruise control is one of the smoothest Ive ever seen. Steering wheel is excellently sized and has good grip material. Dash is Ok on the eyes. Unfortunately, Ford also got many things wrong, too. Ergonomics are off - I cant really get comfortable. E.g., place your left arm on the door rest and its too low, but place it on the window ledge and its too high. Seats are not flat bottomed but have a strange cavity design that eventually cuts off your circulation. Right arm rest doesnt extend fwd far enough, can barely anchor my elbow to shift gears. Stereo and basic control menus are inconsistent and make little sense. Stereo has tons of good stuff like USB, Bluetooth connection, etc, but ... it just sounds terrible. Its reception is, I must say, a joke, actually took it in to the dealer for a look (they said its operating as designed). Noise levels for engine and wind are very low but way too loud for road noise... changed tires, somewhat better now, but still quite loud. Turning the dome light on/off is unnecessarily complex. Ride in first gear is VERY jerky, is NOT fun driving through a parking lot. Suspension is just too stiff, resulting in a harsh ride like a Mustang (do people really want that in a basic car like the Focus? I doubt it). Low beam headlights simply dont illuminate well enough, feel like I might hit something at night. Burns some oil, ~ 0.7 quart every 1000 miles, which is surprising given it only has about 30k miles. Finally, watch driving at night when you might be drowsy - the steering is very touchy. This is good at slow speeds in a parking lot, but steering *should* become LESS sensitive at highway speeds - it does not.. you could be off the road with 1/8 to 1/4 of a wheel turn.

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  A lot of car for the $ and fun to drive - 2004 Ford Focus
  By CindiW - January 28 - 10:00 am

  I have the ZTS model which offers an incredible amount of power. The pickup is outstanding. The car handles like a much smaller vehicle; it hugs the corners and takes on unforegiving roadways remarkably. I have both a Japanese small car and then this car. The Focus has turned out to be a reliable, economical and outstanding on gas vehicle. I would recommend it in a heartbeat---particularly for someone who does not want to spend a ton of money.

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  At last the europeen Focus - 2012 Ford Focus
  By remiguertin - January 28 - 8:04 am

  We bought the 2012 Focus for my wife, to replace her 2000 Nissan Maxima. We were there to test drive a 2010 Fusion that they could not locate. While checking the yard, I saw this candy red Focus, showed it to my wife; it was love at first sight! We test drove both cars, the Fusion was really nice but the Focus felt more sporty, faster. Excellant steering feedback, the transmission works superbly. Nice comnination of ride and comfort. Closing the doors produced a solid sound.

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  FOCUS = Fix Or Curse Until Stolen - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Jeff - January 27 - 7:36 am

  This car is an absolute piece of garbage. I got it as a commuter car for nothing but highway driving. I drive 60 miles a day at 65 in a straight line. Where do I begin to describe the problems? The interior is cheap and flimsy. The radio dial literally melts in high heat. The car feels like it will fall apart at 65. Awful road noise. The seats seem to consist of a cloth, cardboard, and styrofoam mixture. Reliability is terrible. I had it in the shop for routine mechanical and electrical problems every 6 months. It once shut off on a highway, literally turning off at 60 mph. Do not, under any circumstances, buy this car. Spend the extra money on a civic and save on repairs.

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  The SVTF is a hoot - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Donland23 - January 26 - 11:21 pm

  I purchased my SVT Focus new with 67 miles on the clock in 8/04. As of 1/08, its now at nearly 70k miles. While I cant say theyve been entirely trouble free, the Focus has never left me stranded. All of its foibles have been superficial. Right now it has no issues other then steering wheel wobble at freeway speeds, and even thats not too bad. Performance is superior 0-60 mph in about 8 secs, and up to 34 mpg on the hwy are both legit numbers Ive acheived. Being a hatchback has also helped, such as when I fit an entire kitchen table with the seats folded. Overall, great car for the money, and no regrets in purchasing it.

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  Nice Wagon - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Deb - January 25 - 1:43 pm

  This is a great little wagon with exceptional gas mileage. Right now has 100,000 on it an still running nicely. The ignition lock froze up around 70,000 and had to be replaced and the shift solenoid in the tranny was just done last week. Other than that, just general maintenance. Have driven this car all over the country and its always started and run nicely. I do not go to dealerships for upkeep on my car, I go to Firestone so havent had problems with recurrent brake issues, etc.