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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  Bad little car - 2002 Ford Focus
  By jered - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Had a few problems with mine but hey, its a performance car not a basic daily driver!Love it and bought a second Focus beacuse of it... GET ONE NOW!!!

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  So far, so good - 2007 Ford Focus
  By hootynkel - December 5 - 10:03 pm

  The car so far is what I expected and a little more. 4 tanks of gas and average right around 30 mpg with mixed highway and constant stop n go driving. This car is very easy and enjoyable (very fun at times) to drive in all situations so far.

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  Reliable and fun to drive - 2014 Ford Focus
  By Anne - December 5 - 9:21 pm

  I bought a new/preowned 2014 Ford Focus Sedan, basic model (not an SE or Titanium), 5-speed, manual transmission. It had 16,000 miles on it at purchase. After driving it daily for 2 years, it now has 33,000 miles on it. I have only taken it in for new tires at 30,000 miles. I have had no trouble with this car at all and it is a pleasure to drive! (Mind you I change the oil and rotate tires whenever the timer on the car tells me to) In 2016 it still looks new and runs like new. I highly recommend it to drivers who enjoy controlling the car with a stick shift, good power, a sleek look and the decent gas mileage that comes with a compact car.

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  Great Car - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Happy Ford Driver - December 5 - 2:06 pm

  We purchased our Focus after months of shopping. We finally decide to go and test drive the Focus. To our surprise we loved it. It is a very comfortable car, has a great drive, and is even a little bit sporty. I love the dash board and the lights, the ride is very smooth. The gas mileage is great we have been getting 33-34 mpg. This is around town, but we are driving conservatively. Great car for the money, glad we made this purchase, I highly recommend this car.

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  The Only Hot Hatch - 2002 Ford Focus
  By Sonic SVT - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! SVT has outdone themselves! This car blows away the Matrix XRS, and the new Civic Si (and I am a Honda fan!). Definitely worth the extended wait for delivery. Audiophile stereo system is better than any stock system I have ever heard. I cant believe Im driving a hatchback! This car wants to be driven fast. I would recommend it for anyone with a boring commute who wants an affordable rocket. I get more looks in this car than in my modded 97 Honda Prelude.

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  Surprising car. I really like it! - 2007 Ford Focus
  By abeachdog - November 26 - 5:13 pm

  I needed an economical, dependable, third car with a rack for my longboards. It has exceded all of my expectations. I have put 5,300 miles on it in 3 months. I modified a set of INNO racks and they work great. The Focus carries a ton of stuff, 2 9 foot plus boards on top, is very fun to drive, and gets decent gas mileage (25 to 30 mpg with the PZEV). I did not expect such a versatile vehicle. Ford should consider making an "Outback" style car based on the Focus. Unfortunately, this model is discontinued. Great cheap surf car for solo trips! Excellent commuter and general purpose vehicle. Amazingly quick and agile. Highly recommend.

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  Focus Drives Well - 2001 Ford Focus
  By martyiv - November 26 - 3:36 pm

  I have had nothing but a great time with my Focus and I am glad I chose it over the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Echo. The Focus gets up and goes with the Zetec option and is great for my long commutes to work. A joy to drive!

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  Nice job Ford - 2004 Ford Focus
  By cfunk32 - November 23 - 2:00 am

  Nice car!Just bought an 04 ZX5 2.3L Man Comfort with the Audiophile & Moonroof upgrade. I love it. Drove my wifes 2001 ZX3 2.0 Auto for six months (finished lease) after she got a new car. I liked the 01 but not the noise & lack of power. Ford really improved upon the car in 3 years. My 04 is sweet! Rides great; no noise at 80mph. Bumps are like gentle kisses. 2.3 fast. Black of course. Pirelli P6s are nice too.

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  I hate my car - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Leigh Ann - November 22 - 10:00 am

  The Ford Focus gets nothing but rave reviews through website articles. However, anyone that owns a 2000 Ford Focus will tell you otherwise. My car has been serviced for 47 different things. Thats it 47. For example, my radio has been replaced twice in the past two years. Now it is malfunctioning again and Ford told me that they would no longer pay for service on the vehicle because I have 36,250 miles on it and the warranty is up at 36,000. Well if they would have fixed it in the first place I wouldnt have this problem.

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  Solid Car - 2000 Ford Focus
  By KJ - November 16 - 10:00 am

  I paid dirt for this car new over 2 years ago. I have had absolutely no problems with the car in 44,000 relatively hard miles beyond the recalls, which you kind of have to expect from a first year car. Easily one of the best investments I have ever made.