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:

• 

  Revised Focus - One Month Later - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Ian - June 29 - 12:20 pm

  So far, Im one month into ownership of my 07 ZX3 SE. No major issues, however there have been fit and finish issues. One of the wheel nut covers from the hubcap flew off and the head restraints wouldnt stay up. The dealer has been excellent with resolving these issues. Overall, the interior feels cheaper than the old 02 Focus with regards to small details like the radio display. Otherwise, car is holding up well and Im very happy with it. Long term reliability isnt promising. Lets hope Ford surprises me - My expectations are low.

• 

  2005 Focus ZX4 - 2005 Ford Focus
  By j black - June 23 - 4:43 am

  We are very pleased with our 05 Focus ZX4. We also have an 02 Focus Se wagon which we are also very pleased with. The 05 does get 5 to 7 mpg better. The torque curve has been noticeably improved, especially at passing speeds. The stall ratio of the transmission has also been changed. The engine feels very strong when starting from a dead stop.

• 

  Early Report - 500 miles -So Far So Good - 2012 Ford Focus
  By novavroom - June 22 - 12:20 pm

  I was looking for a safe, fun and economical replacement for our BMW 328i. Bought an SEL Hatchback with leather, rain sensor, back-up warning, 17"wheels, cold weather package,automatic, Sterling Grey Metallic. The test drive impressed my wife and me - I am 63" tall and find the front power seat very comfortable. The car seems to be built to high quality standards. Paint and overall fit and finish are top notch. The car performs quite well - it is quiet, well balanced and just seems to be well built. The BMW is a great car but I do not feel I have given up much with this Focus. It may be a compact but it is a very nice car! If you find one you like - buy it - seems like a hot seller!

• 

  Excellent - 2008 Ford Focus
  By when d - June 20 - 5:13 am

  Better than expected. the 5 speed is a delight to drive, clean shifting, >30 mpg already (<1000mi) on ~75% highway/25%city driving. I find the exterior fresh - it makes me smile to see it in the parking lot. The interior is pleasant & modern. Quiet drive (unlike 07). SES comes with electrochromic mirror and trip calculator (mpg, mi to mt, fuel effeciency...). Brand new so reliability rating hopeful (good warranty). Definitely worth checking out!

• 

  Ford gets it right! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By brian1986 - June 20 - 4:49 am

  Ford Way to go, Ford! I love driving this car.  We bought for our son.  I liked the 2012 restyle.  After driving it, I was sold.  While some may not enjoy the double clutch automatic, I like it since it reminds me of a manual but I dont have to shift it like a manual!  It cruises along through the 6 gears flawlessly.  It rides like a much larger car.  It is very quiet and rides well.  I now find myself thinking of how I can get my own Focus without upsetting the bank account.  Unfortunately, it will be a long wait because we also bought an Escape for my wife :-).

• 

  Fun car with a great price - 2000 Ford Focus
  By nes1984 - June 19 - 5:20 am

  Great car for the money, needs some more options like softer seats, more horsepower, bigger gas tank.

• 

  I GOT IT AGAIN - 2004 Ford Focus
  By DAKING* - June 18 - 10:00 am

  GREAT!SO MUCH THAT I TRADE-IN MY 2000 FORD FOCUS SE FOR A NEW 2004 FOCUS SE AND GOT A $3000 REBATE PLUS $4500 OFF FOR MY OLD CAR TOTAL $7500 OFF THE PRICE OF THE NEW DO THE MATH...IAM SO HAPPY...SEEEYYYAAA....

• 

  Bobs Review - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Robert Dandurand - June 18 - 10:00 am

  Great Car. It is a really good car. I love it

• 

  46 year old found driving fun again - 2008 Ford Focus
  By HUGH LOWENSTEIN - June 11 - 11:33 pm

  Pure enjoyment and cost savings at the pump during these expensive times behind the wheel. With extra cash at the end of the month this car is a win-win situation. Very rare these days with all the blah, blah hype in the auto industry. This ride is honest and realistic in our current economy today. The faster you go the more fuel youll need. But fast is what it likes best.

• 

  Please dont buy this car - 2013 Ford Focus
  By Cotton Wildbrook - June 10 - 9:09 pm

  We bought this car used with less than 50K miles on it. We had it serviced twice in the first month of ownership because the transmission studdered while shifting. We were told that was normal behavior for the car and that the transmission was designed to learn your driving style and thus not be suitable as a car for multiple drivers. How foolish is that? They reprogrammed the TCM both times, which did absolutely nothing to fix the problem. The car had to have new wheel bearings put on at 60K miles at a cost of $700! Finally we got a recall notice about the obviously faulty transmission, so back it went for more repairs. Again, this did NOTHING to correct any of the problems. In fact, after we had that done, the car died en route to work with no warning whatsoever. It literally lost 100% power while merging onto a 50 mph road. We had it towed to the dealership where they said it needed a new wiring harness that wasnt covered under warranty and wasnt related to the bad transmission (they said). That was a $500 job. After owning it for only 9 months we traded it in for another vehicle at a loss of $5000.00 Honestly, were just happy to be rid of it. It was too big of a risk to drive. You never knew if you were going to get to your destination alive.