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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  A happy camper - 2012 Ford Focus
  By jfoehner - December 8 - 11:29 am

  Wow, my SEL has a great ride, very quite, quality interior materials, sound system very good and already getting 33 mpg mixed town and highway driving. Its turned a number of heads where ever I go. People really like the exterior lines and didnt realize it was a Ford product.

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  Very enjoyable - 2009 Ford Focus
  By Douglas Lower - December 5 - 2:38 pm

  This was my 5th Focus purchase.I picked a black ext./Taupe int.This was an automatic SE.I loved the taupe over the black interior.I was extremely impressed with the improvements over my pre 07,05S,03 versions.My only disappointment-no wagon or hatchback models.Mpg was amazing on the freeway,42-45 mpg.It did better than my 09 Honda Fit.The Fit was better in the city though.The Focus was an excellent, relaxing car to drive.I felt safe in it.If you do not need cargo options this is the car to buy.It does have a large trunk.I combined the best qualities of both my cars and traded them both in on a loaded 2010 Kia Soul Sport.

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  Love this thing! - 2009 Ford Focus
  By majoraud - December 5 - 5:26 am

  I decided to purchase a small commuter car and since Ford is having such great deals I settled for the 2009 SEL. Leather seats are standard in the SEL, and they are very nice and comfortable, and stylish. The synch feature is great, I can use my cell or launch my ipod just by pushing a button on the steering wheel, and then just talking! Works great. The car rides nicely, and looks good to boot! And so far I am getting 25 MPG in town. My other car is a Lexus, but I am having more fun driving this little Focus. I even had someone comment to me today at the grocery store how nice my car looked! Never expected to get such a nice car for so little money. Thank you Ford!

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  2002 FORD Focus Wagon - 2002 Ford Focus
  By REDRANGER55418 - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Car handles really well. Sometimes the speed gets away from you when you are trying to merge onto the freeway.

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  its growing on me - 2007 Ford Focus
  By jarrod - December 3 - 12:40 am

  As far as driving goes, its kinda "spunky". Im getting over my loss on a nice 95 Mustang GT. But, this little car has surprised me. Its a base model 5-speed. So far the only thing Im complaining about is a slight engine tapping/knocking. Which Im still yet to get checked out. But overall, she looks very promising for future modifications.

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  Great gas mileage - 2010 Ford Focus
  By Mark Berkowitz - December 2 - 3:40 am

  I needed an affordable car and the Focus met that requirement. Im disappointed that the model that I bought does not have electric windows, cruise control, or electric side view mirror controls but thats my fault for not checking it out thoroughly. Im also confused about the lack of an ash tray and lack of a lighter--Im not advocating smoking but it would be nice to have an ashtray and lighter when I am driving alone.

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  2007 Ford stinks - 2007 Ford Focus
  By I HATE MY FOCUS - December 1 - 2:14 pm

  I have read all the reviews and i brought this car brand new and I have had many of the same issues with the tires i replaced my tires twice with less than 40,000 miles, my dashboard light went out replace that, my doors are difficult to open but that was still under warranty. i had to purchase a new battery at 37,000 miles.

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  dont buy a ford focus - 2008 Ford Focus
  By rob - December 1 - 7:19 am

  i purchased my focus with 27000 miles on it at 38000 out of warrenty wheel bearing in front was bad,at same time carrier bearing was bad making lould noise,heres the kicker ford wont sell just the bearing you have to buy the whole driveshaft cost to repair 800.00.do yourself a favor buy a honda

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  06 Focus SES ZX5 AT - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Sgeur67 - December 1 - 2:48 am

  Purchased my Focus SES ZX5 new. Love it. getting 25mpg city/30mpg hwy at 70mph. Original Pirelli P6s were super noisy, replaced them after 400 miles with Goodrich TA radials. Quieter than the P6s and far far better traction in snow. After 54K mi brakes are still great, no noise, no squeaks, no dust and still now wore out. AC is always cold when you really need good and cold. This car has all the power you need for every day commuting and quite comfortable on 4hr trip too. I would buy another 4dr hatch if Ford made it. Great little car.

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  Solid compact car! - 2009 Ford Focus
  By brrugger - November 29 - 1:05 pm

  I decided to buy my 09 Ford Focus SE during the Cash For Clunkers. I test drove compact and midsize cars from every manufacturer except Toyota and Honda. I love the car after almost 5000 miles I have averaged about 33 mpg 40/60 city/highway driving. The car has a very comfortable driving position and the car is easy to drive. Sure its not a rocket, but I dont feel the need to race people from stop light to stop light around town. However, I have no issues merging or passing on the highway. The brakes are solid, and the car gives a confident feel on curvy roads and in windy conditions. The dash materials are hard to touch but all things I routinely touch are soft and feel nice.