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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  Fun and More Fun - 2003 Ford Focus
  By ZX5 Lover - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I actually have the 2.3 liter engine and it is the best car I love it. the engine pick up is fantastic my last car had the worse pick and the ZX5 just goes!

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  Just Bought One - 2005 Ford Focus
  By mrslgoza - September 25 - 3:20 pm

  I just bought my Focus about 2 days ago, and I have put a little over 150 miles on it. Ive been impressed with the way it drives. I have always owned a car with a manual transmission, but this little car has been a new experience for me. It has a lot of power, and there is no change in power even when my whole family is in there, nor when I turn on the air conditioning. Neither has made the engine stall what so ever. I drive about 80 miles a day and I feel this car is going to be the best with fuel efficiency, it has been so far. I am proud of the 100k mile warranty on the engine. It made it so much easier making my decision for purchase. I am very pleased so far.

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  fun - 2006 Ford Focus
  By otto tringle - September 24 - 1:30 pm

  The suspension is tight, and with the five speed it is very nice in traffic. Now youre not going to beat a hemi but if youre on the stick youre going to jump ahead of those not paying attention. As far as size, it is not for large people, but fits me with room.

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  Awesome little Peashooter! - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Luke - September 23 - 10:16 am

  I have had my car for a little over a month now and I love it! This is my first car that I bought. I picked this car because It was affordable and for some reason it had a more powerful engine then the Honda Civic which was 3000 dollars or more! I got really good deal and this car is very reliable and I will enjoy driving it for many years to come!

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  Pros & Cons - 2001 Ford Focus
  By atomicbri - September 22 - 2:00 am

  My Ford Focus ZX3 is a fun to drive car. It handles excellently and has a bit of European flair in its hatchback design. I can also load all kinds of stuff in it. However the reliability is sketchy.Numerous recalls, recalls that were fixed seem to have the same problem creep up again(Battery cable was changed only to melt again). The brand new ones now come with 10/100,000 Powertrain warranty, but I wish mine had that because I think the new ones have the bugs worked out while mine still has the bugs. A shame since this car is truely a joy to drive and its versitility is great!

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  Ford Focus Wagon ZTW - 2004 Ford Focus
  By rweiss - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Excellent performance, smooth drive and quiet engine, despite the fact that it is a 4 cylinder engine.Superb accelaration

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  Thanks! Ford - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Mable Moses - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Thanks, We have been Ford owner for lots of years, the proud owner of a Ford Focus. Our first Ford Focus was a 2001. But, in June 2003, we had a head-on car accident with the Focus.The car was a total lost. We only had seat belt and air bag damages. After the settement of the car, the value of the car was good, we got more out of the car than what we paid for it. Now, we got another 2003 Ford Focus. My car is a 2001 Ford Escort ZX2, but my next car will be a Ford Focus. I want to thank the "Lord" and "Ford" for the protecting of our lives. Thanks, Mable Moses 492 Odum Road Lumberton, NC 28360

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  It really is fun to drive - 2003 Ford Focus
  By puckhead - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Though ive only owned for a week i have been very impressed with a few things. Like many have said, this car corners like no other. Ive owned a 2000 Mustang and an a BMW. This thing beats them. The shifter is best. Just has a great feel and smooths the bumps. I hope the reliability and longevity are as good as the first impression.

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  New Focus - 2005 Ford Focus
  By STACY - September 21 - 7:10 pm

  Car is new for us but we love how quiet the motor is and smooth the ride is. With the spoiler and bigger rims, some people ask what model it is; they did not know it was a Focus.

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  Red Focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By LilredFocus - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I have owned many Ford products from the Bronco II, Thunderbird, Bronco, F250 Super Duty 4x4 Truck. As you can see we are a Ford family. I bought the Focus ZX5 four door because I really liked the look. I love my car it is great on gas mileage and driving it is a pleasure. It is sporty enough that my 15 year old son wants it when he turns sixteen to paint on hop it up. It is also roomy enough for the whole family to ride. We do alot of traveling and it does great.