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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  Skip the Automatic and buy the Manual! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By kevinmillerphx - August 20 - 2:14 pm

  I bought the SE with the Manual Transmission and the Sport package - and Im sure glad I did! I have SYNC with none of the MyTouch issues. I have a great transmission with none of the Automatic issues. This car is fantastic! I traded in a 2002 Subaru WRX, so I like power and handling. The 2012 Ford Focus hasnt let me down - it seems much more nimble than my WRX was. The power isnt as great, but Im sure a few mods will help that department. I considered a Titanium, but decided it wasnt worth it for all the extra hassle. I can install a better sound system than the Sony and really didnt want any of the other challenges. Im glad I went with the SE!

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  Disapointed - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Bubba5 - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Thought the gas mileage would be better...I average 20 mpg...the drivers seat is terribly uncomfortable after 20 minutes of driving...I had to take it to ford to replace the seat cover after 10,000 miles...the metal frame cut through the cover...maybe I just got a bad seat cause other reviewers seem to like these seats...automatic is sluggish...needs more power and better brakes

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  Nothing but problems - 2003 Ford Focus
  By IR - August 11 - 2:33 am

  Purchased this vehicle on the recommendation of Consumer Reports. So far this car has had nothing but problems. Ford dealership replaced the clutch, airbags, alternator, and the engine computer. Overall quality is below average; theres a reason why this car has a low resale value.

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  Great car - 2016 Ford Focus
  By Benjamin Nance - August 9 - 11:33 am

  I would have to say, the car is great. I have a SE Hatchback Focus Black with Black Leather. The only problem I have with the car is the lack of Horsepower/Torque. I have 160HP with 130T which is very little. I do have plans on upgrading, ut I will wait till the warranty is up. 3yrs 36000 miles and 60000 powertrain. All in all, I recommend this car. This car is soo much better than my last car. 2012 Ford Focus. I could name many reasons I really disliked my 2012 car. Might be woth adding, but im running out of room to write. FYI, Ford Focus cars are great if you steer clear of year 2013-2014 models due to Gearbox issues.

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  New Owner Review - 2003 Ford Focus
  By mcoene - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Being 65" with a long torso, it was tough for me to find an economical vehicle both in terms of cost and fuel economy. I have a long commute and so far am delighted with my new ZX3.

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  Ford Motor Company - F=Fix O=Or R=Repair D=Daily! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By TW - Unsatisfied Customer! - August 4 - 5:51 pm

  I purchased a 2012 Ford Focus SEL in August 2012. Brand new car with no mileage. After a few weeks of having the car, it happened, your worst nightmare....MAJOR manufactured Ford Motor Company parts just failed and caused me a world of spending time-off from work, commuting back and forth, and just a very stressful time dealing with car issue after car issue daily and weekly, and on a "NEW" car!! Every year from 2012-2016 I have had "MAJOR" mechanical, technological, and Ford Motor Company manufactured parts issues! How is this fair to your customers? How can Ford Motor Company "NOT" help to resolve these issues rightfully with the customer? What ever happened to "Ethics" and "Morals", doing the RIGHT thing by your customer? The Executive Chair states in their Website, “I believe the purpose of a company is to make people’s lives better,” he says. “That is how we became great in the past and it is how we will become even greater in the future.” This is a false statement. Many consumer lives have been turned upside down, inside out, and damaged due to Ford Motor Company!! This is not acceptable customer service! Ford Motor Company has not created any "EHTICAL & RIGHT" strategy or plan to "HELP" their customers with car issues due to Ford Motor Company "FAULT". They are making us pay for Ford Motor Company mistakes! What ever happened to Customer Care??

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  Love my Focus! - 2005 Ford Focus
  By lori - August 3 - 10:13 pm

  I used to own a Honda civic. When I got rid of that my husband brought me a Focus from the dealership he worked at. I drove it the first time and realized what better pick up it has and better get up and go for going up hills. The Honda seemed to struggle with hills but not my Focus! More comfortable for my long legs. Being 6 foot tall, its hard to find a comfortable car. The Focus fits me well with room behind me for somebody to sit.

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  Love my new Focus hatchback! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By marymac2 - July 31 - 7:15 am

  Ive had my new Focus hatchback for 2 weeks and I love it. It is so much fun to drive and I love the voice and Sync features. The only negative is no surprise, its not for long-legged people. A tall person might be fine in the front and theres plenty of head room, but definitely no in the back seat. Im only 54 so its great for me. I do a lot of city driving, so my mpg has been about 28 so far, but thats a lot better than my old car. Looking forward to taking a trip in it next week.

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  My ZTS - 2001 Ford Focus
  By gonegolfing - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I think this is a great little car. It is fun 2 drive and has many conveniences for a small car. It could use a little more power but overall it has been a great car for the price.

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  svt focus review - 2004 Ford Focus
  By motohead - July 30 - 10:00 am

  ive owned my svt focus for a year now and i am glad it came with a warranty. the first visit to the shop cost about 1,300 bucks. it was all covered under the warranty including the tires that needed to be replaced because of a deffect in the sidewall cracking.