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 191 through 200 of 353.00
  • Comp Orange SVT - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I shopped around for a small commuter that was fun to drive. It came down to the Mini, SVT focus and a Miata. All three were fun to drive but bang for the buck the SVT topped them both. I bought it at 40k on the clock and have taken two long trips and daily to and from work. There have been no issues aside from some worn bushing on the front torsion bar that made a bit of a thump coming back into the driveway. The dealership took care of it right away with apologies that it wasnt fixed before the car left the lot. Its been a good car so far and the dealership as usual is above and beyond. Chevy built a good vehicle but their dealerships drove me away, and I am not looking back.

  • Focus ZX3 Hatchback - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Ive been disappointed with this vehicles gas mileage since I purchased it. Ive found that larger automobiles get better gas mileage. I have a gas tank that holds just over 11 gallons and when I travel 350 miles to visit my son the car uses about a tank and a half of fuel. That figures out to be less than 22 MPG on a road trip.

  • Its OK - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I purchased this car two years ago new. So far I have been pleased with the car but it has had several issues and the dealership was a nightmare to deal with. Right after the warranty ran out I had a $1300.00 air conditioning problem that the dealership ripped me on. There has also been some other repair issues that I feel reflect poor craftsmanship; however I do like the car and I guess for an economy sedan it will do.

  • Rocket miser - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    The PROS: The car is a pleasure to drive. It looks sharp when shined in black. I like the interior, very sporty and different than other vehicles. The car comes with so many surprise and delights - what a value - leather, heated seats, great stereo with sub woofer, HID lights, sunroof, and super brakes. The most amazing spec is the actual gas mileage of 27 city and 34 highway - while driving it hard enough to smile! I average one offer to buy it each month I have owned it. Too bad Ford dropped the SVT. The CONS: Longer trips are hard on your comfort index, must get additional wheels for winter, and a seventh speed for overdrive would have been awesome .

  • worth the money - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    One great car for the money. Especially with the 2.3 engine. Ride and handling for a car this size is excellent. Performance for this engine, even with an automatic is great too. Brakes are sufficient, and seem well balanced. All controls in the car are well placed too. Driving position is very comfortable, and Im over 6 foot. Car does well at accomodating four adults, and can handle the extra passengers (power-wise) very well.

  • Job 1 Did Their Homework ... - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Solid, quiet, roomy and great sound system.

  • Great City Car! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Tight car! Solid, no rattles, more than adequate power and handles well! Love it as city runabout, easy entry, exit, parking and great visibility all around. Hatchback can carry BIG loads, like a mini SUV! Over 30k miles, no problems yet. Have a loaded automatic, sunroof and all extras yet it still doesnt have a rattle it - wife loves it too - Just leave the Town Car in the garage and use the Focus in the city!

  • Yep, its great! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    In 5 months we put just over 12,000 miles on our Focus ZX3. This is an outstanding car. So far not had a single problem. Gas milage is outstanding. Sometimes just over 30 miles to the gallon. The driving position is excellent, trunk capacity astounding, build quality very good, the tilt/telescoping fat leather steering wheel exceptional and the Focus is a blast to drive. It has power windows, mirrors and even remote door locks and trunk release. We bought over the internet for $2500.-- off the sticker.It was worth it not to have to deal with sleazy salespeople, who dont have a clue about the product they are selling.

  • SVT Focus 2002 2 DR - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Very nice car. It is affordable and econimcally nice. It should be souped up and it will dominate the competition.

  • Love My Focus - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    When my T-Bird was involved in an accident, I was given a Ford Focus to drive by the rental company. I thought I would hate driving a smaller car. After a week I bought one.

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