Overview & Reviews

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.

• Thoughtful ergonomics, large interior, smooth ride, sharp steering, impressive selection of body configurations and features.

User Reviews:

Showing 241 through 250 of 353.00

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  WOW - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Polestar9205 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I was hesitant to purchase the Focus due to initial reliabilty reports on the 2000 model. The test drive and Fords quality improvements, which have been large, persuaded me to buy the car. This is the most fun American car I have ever driven! The ZTW wagon (only 10in. longer than the sedan) handles like a sports car( 16in rims/low profile Pirelli Tires). Power from the Zetec engine is smooth and consistent. The sound system ( 6 in dash CD) is superior. Ride is quiet and predictable. Styling is Euro and handsome. Lots of cargo room.

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  2.3L PZEV, 148HP, manual - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Llyra - April 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. The pick-up and top speed far exceeded my expectations. Its well designed as far as looks and function also. Gas mileage is great. It also happens to be our family car since it is so spacious. I would recommend this model to anyone looking for a little more speed combined with comfort and practicality.

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  high rev - 2003 Ford Focus
  By uopdad - April 9 - 10:00 am

  enjoy the ability to put transmission in 3rd gear and not need to worry about shifting when getting on the freeway. 2.3l engine pulls great from 3000 to over 6000 rpm. does reqire some finess when using full throttle at low speeds and turning more than a couple degrees. seats a little too hard or stiff for my taste when taking a several hour drive.

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  Awesome 1st Ford - 2003 Ford Focus
  By RaiderRick - March 9 - 1:26 pm

  My fully loaded ZTW has been a dream. Ran like a top up in North Dakota over a brutal winter -- great on ice and snow with the Pirelli P600s (which wore out after about 15k -- put Falkens on, much nicer tire and are better in the wet and handle just as good). Knock on wood, car is a dream.

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  Lauries Review - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Laurie Hannah - March 3 - 8:06 pm

  I previously had owned two Escorts before my Focus. When Ford quit making the Escort I was very upset because I always knew what car Id be purchasing next - an Escort. However, I decided to give the Focus a chance, since it replaced the Escort, and Ive really been happy with its performance and quality. The only maintenance Ive had to perform so far is changing the oil and tires. I did have a problem with the truck when I first got it, but it was under warranty and Ford fixed it right away. Its been a great car and I will be purchasing another one really soon!

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  What a steal! - 2003 Ford Focus
  By runnerboy - February 28 - 10:00 am

  The Focus is a great car. This car has the best 4 cylinder ever put in an American production car. It has good power and the gearing pretty well matches the power curves. For what the car lacks in low end power, it makes up for in the upper RPMs. Ford also did their homework in the handling department. This car is also has a well laid out, comfortable cabin.

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  Best car at the best price - 2003 Ford Focus
  By newcar - February 5 - 10:00 am

  I test drove and researched each car in Edmunds 15K and lower list. The Ford Focus blew me away! It was the obvious choice. With the dealers special pricing at the time I purchased my vehicle, I paid less and got more than I would have for any car in the list. I love it! I cannot say enough great things about it.

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  My New Focus - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Moland - January 31 - 10:00 am

  I never thought driving a manual transmission could be some much fun. I like the car being so small outside and yet still roomy on the inside. I got mine in Patriot Blue and just love the brightness of it.

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  Needs More Power - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Chris1983 - December 25 - 10:00 am

  Hello I Thought I Would Post A Comment I Had One Of These Cars For A Rental The Other Day It Had 8,500 Miles On It And Was Pretty Much Basic Beside The Auto Trans Anyways The Car Was Decent It Had Some Issues Like The Trans Would Make A Popping Noise (Who Knows) And The Car Wouldnt Even Move Out Of Its Own Way Ive Been In An Escort Before And I Know For A Fact That This Was Slower Than The Escort And Also The Gas Mileage Sucks I Drive A 1993 Lumina Minivan And It Has A 3.8 V6 And It Gets Way Better Gas Mileage Than This Car Anyways Thanks For Your Time

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  Lemon!!!!! - 2003 Ford Focus
  By rrtodd95 - December 25 - 10:00 am

  I found the 2002 Focus to be almost as dissapointing as the 2000. The one big difference being recalls. On my 2000 I was inundated with recall notices almost monthly the 2002 electrical problems en masse.