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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  87K+ and still going strong - 2001 Ford Focus
  By navalghost - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought it new in Mar 01 to commute between VA and CT plus a lot of around town. 87,500 miles latter Im just doing my first brake job. Other then oil and gas and the occasional windshield wipers Ive had no, repeat NO, problems. I had the fuel pump upgraded for free at 67K due to the recall, but it wasnt a problem yet. Could always use more power, but its got enough for commuting and I routinely get 30+mpg mixed driving. Oh, Im 62", 230#, so the interior room is GREAT for me solo. My three sons are all teen agers and the oldest is a big 16, so it does get a little crowded with all four onboard. Good enough car to give to the oldest for his first ride.

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  Of course its an SVT - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Andrew De Lisle - October 9 - 2:00 am

  Having owned Ford for years I had no doubt it was going to be good. KNowing SVT and what they could produce I was a bit shy about a front wheel drive sports car. Over all it is a blast, the handeling is not as good as my SCCA Mustang but awsome for the road. The only down fall is the clutch. It is a performance clutch so like to be in or out and does not like stop and go traffic. The ride is not as stiff as you would expect it. Expect understear when cornering hard. When all is said and done I was impressed with what SVT has done with this little car and bould buy another one.

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  Bang for the buck - 2001 Ford Focus
  By ARLOBIGWATER - October 7 - 2:00 am

  When I bought it, this wagon was the last one in its size and price range available in the in the US.Drove similar rental in European traffic - was sold. Handles better than Civic previously owned. Driving car every day in DC traffic w/5spd and keeping up w/the flow easily. W/5spd manual and ZETEC it is an interesting and fun vehicle. Interior holding up to 2 kids and big dog. Mileage worse than expected, but in traffic, I should not be surprised. Avoid Sheehy Ford in Springfield.

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  WHAT A PIECE!!!! - 2000 Ford Focus
  By What A Piece! - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This car has been horrible!!! I have had it for just over a year and have have spent at least 500$ every other month on repairs. Ford seems to complicate their cars so that they are the only ones who can fix them half the time, and they are outragiously over priced!!! The anti-theft features are more of a hassle for the driver than the theft. Gas mileage is NOT as good as advertised. Looses value quickly!! I dug myself a hole with this one. Was very disappointed since the car had good reviews. Once again Ford has let me down... Im going Honda. Im upside down, but extra money now will be well worth the money Ill save in repairs.

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  my focus - 2002 Ford Focus
  By jose nieves - October 7 - 2:00 am

  My brakes worned out quickly and I dont think for a new car brakes going out so quickly is safe for anyone. Also its a slow car at first but then it picks up.

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  I LOVE my Focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By turtle750111 - October 6 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE my Focus. Ive had it about 2 years. It drives great, looks good, gets great gas milage and never slows down. Im even thinking of getting another one on my next car purchase!

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  Still debating - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Half and Half - October 4 - 4:26 am

  When I bought it, it was the best value and the most pleasant car in its class. The problems I have had are minimal, however they are still problems with a car 1 year old. My DPFE sensor on my dash has malfunctioned twice. And I had that same chatter in the back window above 55 mph. Luckily I have not hit the big 36K yet. But when I do these defective pieces may come back to haunt me in the service dept. Other than that the car has been reliable.

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  Dream - 2004 Ford Focus
  By soulpatch - October 4 - 2:00 am

  This car is truely awesome. I am an aggressive driver and it seems to know where I want to go before I do. Great pickup and awesome handling. Styling is eye catching and I get a lot of nods on the road. My SVT is fully loaded and the sound system is probably my favorite feature. The auto volumn control is top notch as well. Great car for the price and I would recommend this to anyone.

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  my focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By heather marie - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love my focus! It`s the best car I`ve ever had and I love to drive it..it`s so much fun. My car is very reliable, as long as I do the proper maintenance it runs like a dream.

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  You wont believe it til you get one! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Maree - October 1 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car!Its performance is "zippy" and has great "zip" for getting over the mountains too! I took it to Mt.Lassen and it just climbed right along next to the "Big Dogs." We got a kick out of it cause we knew our little "zipper" was and is more fuel efficient than others.With a comfortable ride we easily put three car seats in back and there is plenty of room in the trunk for everything else.All features in the car are easy to access and within reach of the driver and/or passenger.