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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  Great Car Great Price - 2009 Ford Focus
  By sean - October 20 - 12:40 pm

  We rented a focus while waiting for a 20" replacement tire for our mini van. My wife loved it but it was very plain. After getting the van back we stopped by the local dealer and were surprised at the new model lineup. Our van had 75,000 miles and it was time for a change. The SES package was very well equipped. Better auido system. 6 disk MP3, SYNC, sunroof and nice rims. The LED interior lights are cool and ours is an automatic not 5 speed. Got a very fair deal at 15,000. And much more then expected on the old van. It drives well for a 2.0 and handels just fine. Not much wind noise at freeway speed and cruise control is a plus.

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  The Perfect Car - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Refugee1 - October 20 - 7:10 am

  What a smooth ride! Its FAST and MANEUVERABLE and has great stopping power. It looks GREAT and turns heads. Its very sporty.

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  Love My ZTS! - 2003 Ford Focus
  By ragtopgeek - October 15 - 10:00 am

  I owned a 01 ZTS for one year, and liked it so much I traded up for an 03 ZTS w/automatic, totally loaded. The driving dynamics are incredible. In an attempt to become more minimal, I just sold my 96 Porsche 911 and 01 Mercedes SLK this past year, so have some experience with nice cars. Of course the ZTS is not a 911 or SLK, but I dont feel like I stepped down from Cindy Crawford to Hillary Clinton. Still have long-term reliability concerns. Would like to think I got a good deal: Every-option ZTS, including Centential Package, with an extended 2 year b-to-b for an out-the-door price of $16,600.

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  Nice car but - 2002 Ford Focus
  By John - October 14 - 8:47 am

  So far in the past week of owning this car, Ive been left stranded twice. Both times were caused by a failed shifter cable end. The other complaint I have about this car, is the non-functional 6 disc cd changer, this car will be the last Ford I own and quite possibly the last domestic. In fact if I didnt owe so much on this pile, I would be trading it for a last gen Civic SIR, or a Jetta TDi.

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  2000 Focus ZX3 - 2000 Ford Focus
  By 2000zx3Focus - October 12 - 3:28 pm

  IN THE BEGINNING...the was a problem, before I could take it home they had to replace a Rt rear shock. Yes, it is fun to drive, pick up was great. Lots of trips for service of small to medium issues.

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  Smart little car - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Jo - October 11 - 3:30 pm

  I drive 50/50 city and the highway, and I average 32 mpg after 2 months. Its quick and responsive for a 4 cylinder, and I love all the technology gadgets. Didnt think Id love Sync or Sirius so much. It is nice and quiet so I can hear them both well. I tested small cars from Toyota and Honda, but both are uncomfortable cars for big and tall people (Toyota is terrible for long legs and Honda is terrible for head room). I can see my car from my office window, and to my surprise, this car turns a lot of heads. I think the leg room could still be better, but Im glad I bought this car.

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  Fouse - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Melmo - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I love my focus, but there could be a few changes to make it the best! I am 16 and its my first car ans I love it!

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  Focus, My Experience. - 2002 Ford Focus
  By Craig3500 - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I have 45,000 miles on the 2002 Focus SE 4 Door Sedan I have it regularly serviced and have not had a major problem to date. The Focus is not that bad of a car if you are on a budget. I would not pay over 13K for a Focus under any circumstance. It would be a great student car, either for a college or high school student. The Focus definitely has limitations, size of course is one thing, but for a compact it isnt that bad. Im a big guy (63, 250) so a Focus is a bit small for me, but I can manage. Other limitations is power. Fuel Economy is very good, I dont have the exact MPG, but its low 30s MPG.

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  A perfect car - 2016 Ford Focus
  By Armin - October 3 - 7:07 pm

  A perfect car with great handling..have the ecoboost 3 cylinder and it is really the car i really love ...its not expensive and i enjoy driving it..

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  Drive like Schumacher for under 20K - 2004 Ford Focus
  By DigitalGT - September 27 - 2:00 am

  The SVT Focus is hands down the most fun I have ever had behind the wheel of a street car. Ive been the owner of a 300ZX TT and a Supra TT and for a time I drove a Renault Clio V6 Sport on a daily basis. While all of them are faster, none of them have been more fun. While the car does has some weak areas, it certainly makes up for them with its suspension, gearing, and overall connection with the road.