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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  my focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By franv - June 15 - 10:00 am

  good value and american made

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  Not entirely happy - 2001 Ford Focus
  By cpence - June 13 - 11:17 am

  It has basically been a decent vehicle, but Ive already had to replace the rack and pinion and the cv joints. Not good for a car that new. Its not like I go off roading in it. Im pretty sure I wont buy another Ford. The Focus was my first and will be my last Ford. It does get good mileage for gas and runs well. Im just not impressed with it. Not a good car for taller men. Almost impossible to fit a baby car seat in the back. The seats arent comfortable either. They slump you forward.

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  Cant hear you over the brake squeal - 2000 Ford Focus
  By previous lemon owner - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I was called in for every possible recall except the most irritating one, brakes. At 20,000 the pads had to be replaced. At 41,000 the pads, calipers, and rotors went. The following day I bought a Honda Civic LS. I will not own a Ford again because they did not stand behind their product.

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  ZX3, Best driving experience - 2003 Ford Focus
  By markregel - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my 2000 Focus XZ3. This car has the best road-feel and handling of any I have driven. The ride is smooth and composed. Just finished riding a friends new Nissan Sentra. I didnt tell him, but no way would I trade it for my Focus. The ride was harsh and it sits low, like riding in a hole. Build Quality?

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  Best Drivering Experience Ever - 2003 Ford Focus
  By markregel - June 13 - 10:00 am

  This car has the best road-feel, steering response and handling of any I have driven. The ride is smooth and composed. Just finished riding a new Nissan Sentra, no way would I trade it for my Focus. The ride was harsh and it sits low, like riding in a hole. Build Quality? I find it to be quite good overall. The ride feels solid on any road. Recalls are great ammunition for those that love to trash this car, but does not in itself mean a poor quality car. All I say to buyes who simply choose "Consumer Reports" top model is "Your Loss" and enjoy your Toyota Echo. I cant imagine an intelligent person taking anything they say seriously.

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  Sports car feel/economy price - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Flash - June 12 - 4:23 pm

  The 5-speed manual transmission gives this car a muscle car-like acceleration. Its the most fun-to-drive car Ive owned since my 79 Turbo Mustang was new. It actually has a quicker feel than that Mustang had. Handling is superb. The car easily accomodates my 6 ft 1 in 280 lb body. My 63" son is a frequent back seat rider and he never complains about the space he has. The hatchback easily holds my cart golf bag, and it would easily hold two smaller bags. Mileage is great. Im getting 29-31 average around town, doing a mix of 70mph freeway driving and stop and go in-town driving. I have a stripped version. My only complaint is that the manual windows feel like they operate backwards.

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  The best station wagon in the market - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Monded - June 12 - 10:25 am

  This car performs very well under any condition. Its contemporary European design is a plus. The interior is well thought out, elegant and quiet. Gas mileage is outstanding. The engine delivers its full power when needed and its fun to drive, both in city traffic and on highways. Ive had this car for years and I still find it very enjoyable and reliable. Its built to last. Visibility when driving is great. This station wagon handles curves very well even at higher speeds. Its probably the best compact station wagon in the market today.

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  I love my car - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Sam O - June 7 - 7:00 pm

  I drive a manual Focus and overall its a great car. I would pick it over the Cobalt any day. Personally Im used to trucks. Until now thats all Ive driven. I switched due to the fuel prices. At first I was kind of scared because Im not used to being so low to the ground. I was used to being up high in my F-250. Dont get me wrong I love my trucks, but I also love my car. All the air bags make you feel safe. Its a car that can definitely get up and go. Although its a 4 cylinder its got some power. Definitely not worried when Im passing other cars. It seats comfortably and even when you have a full car of 5 adults it doesnt feel like your too squished. Overall I love my Focus. Definitely worth it.

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  FuntoDrive - 2005 Ford Focus
  By cookies - June 7 - 11:53 am

  Great little wagon. I bought it loaded and it has been a wonderful replacement for the PT I traded. The kids have more room, room for the dogs, comfortable seating and lots of spunkiness. It turns great and the gas mileage is wonderful..averaging 29-32 on the highway at 75mph! Great for my small family on a limited budget!

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  DO NOT BUY!!! - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Dizzy - June 6 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 13,000 miles on it. At first it seemed to be just what I was looking for. Then 6 months later, I had an accident going 25 miles an hour (I couldnt stop the car in time), the air bags deployed and destroyed the dash area of my car. It cost my insurance company $3000 to fix everything. Right after that, I had to have my brakes changed as they were completely gone. MMM..wonder if thats why I couldnt stop the car during the accident?? My ignition switch went out this year and now my starter also had to be replaced. I also found out about a recall on the rear bearings. Whats next?? I just dont feel safe in this car anymore.