2003 Ford Focus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.28/5 Average
353 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 251 through 260 of 353.00
  • It Works for Me! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I really love this car - its fun to drive and very reliable. The only weird thing was that I had to have the (automatic) transmission replaced after only 25K (I bought it with 17K). Nobody - dealer or Ford - seems to know why this happened, but its been running fine ever since.

  • Super Car - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I love this car. Fun to drive and not so bad on gas.

  • So much fun ... so little time. - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I own two different Foci - a ZTW (wagon) and the SVT. Both are 2003 models. Ive owned the SVT for one year. Both cars are incredible - very reliable and very fun to drive. The SVT is quirky but I think that adds character. Mine is the Euro edition that, in addition to a host of features, comes standard w/ Recaro - heated leather seats, Xenon headlights; traction control and 17" wheels. In the SVT price range, there are no other makes that compete on performance and equipment. And the Focus is an American made product! I highly recommend this car.

  • I had no Idea - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I bought the 2.3L Centennial. The leather is very nice (two-tone) The 5sp has excellent pick up and the safety features are awesome. Side airbags and dual front. I also have the moonroof Fog lights spoiler and the 6disc in dash. I have to agree the stereo sounds great. The ride is very smooth. Fuel is great if you live by the dummy shift light. With the Rebate its a great car to buy brand new. Just make sure to pay invoice and then get your rebate. The black centennial is beautiful I just want the Xenon lights

  • Focus on fun and value! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    This is one of the most handsome cars on the road, inside or outside. As far as value goes, this car is difficult to beat. 145 horsepower engine, power: abs brakes, windows, locks, moonroof, tilt/telescopic steering-wheel, 6 way adjustable drivers seat, 6 disc in-dash cd player with 80 watt stereo, air conditioning, built in foglights, heated front seats, heated power side mirrors,roomy rear cargo area, usable center armrest,and 16 inch alloy wheels. This car rides very smoothly on all road surfaces and the automatic transmission and engine operates like velvet.

  • Great Car! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Just has been a great car overall. Have never had to take it in for any un-scheduled maintence. Very funny to drive. Even after 41,000 miles in that little time I have never had any problems at all with it.

  • 5 - spd. ZTS 2.3L PZEV w/145 HP - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Ive only owned the ZTS for 2 weeks. So, far it has exceeded my expectations. The 2.3L PZEV engine has more torque than the Focus SVT engine. I test drove a Suzuki Aerio and Dodge Neon for comparison. Both are noisy and unrefined compared to the Focus. I hope that Ford has all the past reliability issues solved. With the $3K rebate, it is a good deal for less than $16K out the door.

  • Focus- Funt to own and fun to drive - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    The 2002 ford focus zx3 is a blast to drive. it is quick the steering is responsive and interior design is great

  • This is a LEMON - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    This vehicle performed superbly right up until the 40,000 mile mark. First of all, the Pirelli tires are horrible and will need to be replaced between 35-40k. Secondly, I had to replace the brakes and rotors because they were shot. Third, I had to replace a transmission part that caused my engine to skip (thankfully covered by the extended warranty). Lastly, and most important, the engine stalls in the middle of traffic with no warning. I have taken it to the dealer but they cant figure out what is wrong. I used to think "buy American" but in the case of cars, ITS NOT WORTH MY LIFE or yours either! Do yourself a favor and STAY CLEAR of this one!

  • DONT MAKE A MISTAKE - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    YOU HAVE TO BE READY TO $PEND MONEY ON MAINTAINANCE BECAUSE IT STARTS TO BREAKDOWN ONLY AT 20K MILES!!! SO OVER ALL....ITS NOT A GOOD CAR TO HAVE IF YOURE ON LIMITED BUDGET NOR BUSY LIFESTYLE BECUASE YOU WILL SPEND MORE TIME IN THE SERVICE DEPT RATHER THAN GOING ABOUT WITH YOUR LIFE!

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