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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  The Amazing Focus...La Blue - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Kathy Kearney - February 14 - 10:00 am

  My expierence with my 2005 Ford Focus has been very new, fun and exciting. It has no play in the steering wheel and turns on a dime. It rides like a big car because it has 16" tires and seems sound proof from the road noises.I still cant believe it is a small car as it constantly rides and handles almost like the Mercury Marquis that I traded in.I have only had it a couple of months but the enjoyment of not visiting the gas station frequently has been great.The 4 cylinder engine seems like an 6 or 8 cylinder as it has incredible spunk and pick up when you need to pass or you are on the thruway. It is my first new car. and It was fairly priced and it truly is an amazing focus.

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  Focus Fun - 2005 Ford Focus
  By pbman - February 14 - 10:00 am

  As much fun to drive as my miata, less noise, more comfortable. Reminds me of my 80 BMW 320 in its handling and performance. Fold down seats accomidated a full size futon frame and mattress. Great car for the price especially after rebates.

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  Solid - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Focus Fan - February 7 - 6:23 pm

  I had an SUV, so the fuel economy is flat out great. For the price, the ST model looks good, has plenty of cool features and is fun to drive. Anyone looking for a low cost fuel, efficient and fun car shouldnt sleep on this.

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  Watch Out Japan - 2008 Ford Focus
  By desertrat - February 6 - 6:40 am

  I only had this car for a little while but I can tell you it is right up there with the the Japanese brands. The retuned suspension is great, the ride is smooth,the interior is quiet except for a little road noise which is expected in a compact car. It handles great. Fuel economy is pretty good also. I would recommend this car over the Toyota Corolla. I test drove the Corolla and it had much more road noise and a ride that isnt as smooth as the Focus. I would highly recommend this car to anybody.

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  Great compact car!!! - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Mark Nelson - February 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 2001 Focus 4 door for a little over two years now. I have the Zetec engine and the only problem Ive had was a faulty O2 sensor that was fixed under warranty. There is plenty of headroom for frontseat passangers, although this also does equate to a high level of body roll for such a small car. Handling is still confident, if not sporty, even with that "midsize" body roll. Gas mileage is solid as well. Fit and finish have impressed me seeing this is the first "compact" car Ive purchased in 20 years.

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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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  good car - 2000 Ford Focus
  By cargiver - February 4 - 1:36 pm

  I bought the Focus for my daughter and drove it 850 miles to deliver it to her. Although I usually drive very large cars, it was very comfortable for a small car. Like all new models there were several recalls, but the car has done very well in the past 2 years. Its had none of the problems that Ive read about in the other reviews, except for a brake problem that was fixed under warranty. Its been a very good car.

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  SUPER FUN CAR - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Lisa - February 2 - 10:36 am

  This car has a lot of get up and go and often have to hit the brakes. The ride is smooth and with all the adjustments to the seats, very comfortable. I love the controls on or near the steering wheel and everything within a comfortable reach. Often times I feel like I am driving on clouds. I love the sharp look of the exterior and the comfortable interior. This is a must have car for anyone who likes to drive.

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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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  Great little car! - 2009 Ford Focus
  By Papabear - January 20 - 6:03 pm

  I bought this car for three reasons. 1-The 2005 Ford Minivan was excellent except for MPG. 2-The owner reviews on Edmunds were almost all favorable. 3-I fell in love with this model on the dealers lot. It gets 26/36 MPG with AC on. 28/38 MPG with AC off. The mileage and pep went up after the first 1000 miles. The seats are very comfortable & my long legged son-in-law says the back seats are roomy enough. The tires, suspention entertainment & safety features are all top of the line in the SEL model that I bought. The color is a metalic gray with lots of chrome. I get complements every where I go on it.I am 76 years old & have owned 32 used & 10 new cars. This one is the best.