2004 Ford Focus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.53/5 Average
345 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The emissions-friendly 2.3-liter PZEV engine released in limited states in 2003 is now available as an option in all states (it comes standard in California, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and Maine). The only other notable changes to the 2004 Ford Focus are newly optional leather seating for ZX3 models, and a slightly revised suspension offers improved handling.

Pros:
  • Thoughtful ergonomics, spacious interior, fun-to-drive character, sharp steering, impressive selection of body configurations and features.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 211 through 220 of 345.00
  • Awesome car! - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    This car is the best car I have ever driven. I previously owned a 2000 v6 mercury cougar and love the focus a lot better. It is lighter with less pickup but a new air intake and exhaust put it right on track.

  • 2004 ZX-3 (2.3L) Automatic - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    My model is the "premium" ZX3 with the 2.3L engine. It is fully loaded and I picked it up for $11,500 with only 11k miles on it. If you dont have this engine, you are missing out...it really makes the car. I was looking for a hatchback to replace my truck and had one of these as a rental. I liked it over the Honda Civic Si, Golf/GTI, Protege5, Mazda3 hatchback, etc. Great handling and performance (145 hp), and decent mileage (24/30). Decent build quality for the money couple of minor problems so far.

  • I hate my car - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    To this day, I so mad at myself for buying this thing - knobs/trim have fallen off, the transmission makes noises - I am honestly as afraid to drive this car, as i was when i had a beater in college

  • One Look and Fell in Love - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    The vehicle handles wonderfully well. It took to the Pacific Coast Highway with agility I would not have expected for a car at its price level. It also impressed me when driving through Flaming Gorge on the way to Las Vegas. I did not experience any loss of power while running the AC. In city traffic it is very responsive. The standard transmission could feel a little more solid -- there is a tiny bit of detectable "give." I havent had any problems with it except that my first oil change had to be postponed due to the new oil filter not having saturated the market yet. A chrome Harley filter could have worked.. but... :-) The filter is amazingly accessible.

  • my car - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    Ive only had the car for about two months but I know it is better than the previous Focus. It is bigger in the trunk and the overall car is just a little bigger and roomier.

  • Good for a Mule - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    Good for a mule- we use it to load up the commuter miles. Otheriwse- I hate it. The fuel tank only holds enough for about 300 miles. Weve taken it to the dealership to get stupid stuff fixed already and it breaks again. Also- we can hear the transmission slipping every once in a while... and we arent harsh drivers. Wonder how long it will last-- good for cheap transportation thats fairly reliable for its class. Very uncomfortable if you are planning long trips.

  • Handles great - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    Ive now had the car long enough to fairly evaluate it and theres really nothing to gripe about. I sold an F150, wanting better mileage, and had driven the 2.0 engine and decided to buy this because of the 2.3 that became available. This car feels like a sports car, it handles great, is very quick for its class. The 2.3 engine has 145 hp and responds right when you want it. The five speed is very precise. I dont like automatics and manuals like this one are the reason why. Im an older guy who is an enthusiast and recommend this car to anyone who enjoys driving responsive cars and still needs a back seat. I have the sport package with standard brakes but recommend the anti lock upgrade.

  • Most Fun for your Money - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    A real blast of a car yet can be used for everyday driving. In fact, you want to drive more because of the fun of this car

  • Pocket Rocket - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    The SVT Focus is a blast to drive. It does two things exceptionally well - going fast and cornering. If thats what youre looking for in a car, buy one. This car will turn corners at speeds you never though possible, and is very stable at speeds that will get you arrested rather than just a speeding ticket (if caught). For basic transportation, there are better choices, though. The car is not very roomy, the ride is a bit firm, the engine is loud, and its a Ford. Also, for its size, the gas mileage is terrible, and it requires minimum 91 octane fuel. My SVT five-door is my daily driver, and Im very happy with the purchase.

  • Do NOT buy this car without the 2.3 - 2004 Ford Focus
    By -

    I was kind on the fence about this car - I loved the styling and handling, but was underwhelmed by the motor. The Zetec is kinda crude and not too powerful, especially when you drive it back-to-back with Hondas and Toyotas. Then, I drove one with the new Mazda- built 2.3 - what a difference! This motor is a little jewel - smooth and powerful, with a nice little growl as you hit 6000 RPM. Mind you, this is no WRX-hunter, but its plenty quick enough. To top it off, I got a ridiculously good deal - almost $4,000 off, plus a 5/100,000 bumper to bumper warranty.

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