Ford Focus

Overview: Is the Ford Focus a good compact car?

The Ford Focus has been out of production in America since 2018, but it remains visible on the streets. This is because the Ford Focus is a good compact car with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. For instance, the Ford Focus is known for its sharp and responsive handling, with performance models offering more potent engines and sport-tuned suspensions.

Moreover, the Ford Focus is fuel efficient, and received favorable safety ratings in crash tests. The compact car also features an interior with quality materials and a well-thought design. Higher trims came with advanced tech features, such as the SYNC 3 infotainment system. In addition, the Focus can cater to different customers with the availability of multiple body styles.

However, the Ford Focus also faced various issues that eventually led to its demise. These include the limited legroom and headroom in the back seats, transmission problems, fast pace of depreciation, and stiff market competition.

Note: equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for a used Ford Focus for sale.

Find a used Ford Focus near me.

Related: Ford Focus Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Features

The Ford Focus offers:

• Two body types – sedan and hatchback – for versatility in terms of cargo space and style
• More cargo space in the Ford Focus Hatchback, with flexible rear seating to expand storage
• Two performance models: Ford Focus ST and the Ford Focus RS
• Generally good fuel efficiency across all Focus models
• Responsive and agile handling
• Sport-tuned suspension in performance models

Trims

The Ford Focus in available in various trim levels. The Ford Focus S serves as the base model with essential features, while the Ford Focus SE add convenience features like upgraded audio and infotainment. The Focus SEL comes with more upscale features, while the top-tier Titanium trim features leather upholstery and premium sound system. The Ford Focus ST and the Ford Focus RS are performance-focused trims with sportier design cue and improved driving dynamics.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Ford Focus offers excellent front seat comfort, with good support and available premium features. However, rear seat comfort can be cramped for taller occupant and during longer trips. The compact car offers balanced and smooth ride quality and comes with effective and easy-to-use systems.

Meanwhile, interior technology in the Ford Focus is quite comprehensive and competitive, especially in the higher trims. Noted features include the user-friendly SYNC 3 infotainment system, advanced driver assistance features, and a range of connectivity options.

The Ford Focus sedan offers a trunk with 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, although the rear seats can fold down in a 60/40 split configuration. The Ford Focus hatchback offers 23.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. This can be expanded to 44.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.

How It Drives

The Ford Focus was available in different engine choices: the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine; a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost engine; a 2.0-liter turbocharged mill for the Focus ST, and a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine for the Focus RS.

The Ford Focus car is enjoyable to drive, thanks to its precise and responsive steering: The car feels nimble, giving the driver confidence during cornering and quick maneuvers. The Ford Focus is known for a balanced ride quality – it absorbs most road imperfections, but can still a smooth driving experience on different road surfaces.

Safety

The Ford Focus generally received high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. From the NHTSA, the car received a five-star overall rating with strong performance in frontal and side crash tests, and good rollover resistance. On crash tests by IIHS, the Focus scored Good ratings in most categories, with some models achieving an Acceptable rating in the small overlap front test and variability in headlight performance.

Reviews

The Ford Focus reviews at Edmunds.com are heavily mixed, with the 2017 iteration of the compact car scoring 2.8 stars of five from consumers. Around 36% of consumer reviews gave the Ford Focus a one-star rating, while 29% awarded five stars.

Many consumers cited desirable features and driving characteristics for the high ratings, while those who provided the lowest rating cited issues with the PowerShift transmission and various mechanical and electrical components as reasons for their score.

Learn more: Which Years Of Used Ford Focus Cars Are Most Reliable?

Ford Focus FAQs

Why is the Ford Focus discontinued?

The Ford Focus was discontinued in America in 2018 as part of a broader plan to shift company focus toward more profitable SUVs and trucks. However, Focus production continues sold in other regions, such as Europe and Asia. Current Ford Focus pricing only pertains to models before 2018.

How many miles can a Ford Focus go on a full tank?

The Ford Focus with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine can travel between 300 and 400 miles, while the 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine can achieve a range of more than 400 miles. Meanwhile, the Focus ST and RS models with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine can go between 250 and 350 miles. Actual mileage may vary based on factors such driving style and terrain.

Is the Ford Focus cheap to run?

The Ford Focus offers competitive running costs, especially in terms of fuel efficiency and maintenance expenses. Potential repair costs and problems associated with certain Focus models and years may increase the running costs. However, regular maintenance and careful driving habits can help minimize running costs through the years.

Is the Ford Focus a big car?

The Ford Focus is a compact car, and it is one of the smaller vehicles in the industry. It does offer sufficient space for passengers and cargo, though:

Check out a used Ford Focus for sale.