FORD FOCUS (SEDAN)

OVERVIEW

Body Style: Sedan

Dimensions

Wheelbase (in.): 104.3

Length, Overall (in.): 178.5

Width, Max w/o mirrors (in.): 71.8

Height, Overall (in.): 57.7

Doors & Windows:

Rear Defrost; Power Windows

Measurements

Base Curb Weight (lbs.): 2960

Tires & Wheels

Tires – Front Performance (Optional)

Tires – Rear Performance (Optional)

Compact Spare Tire

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Aluminum Wheels (Optional)

HISTORY

The Ford Focus is a compact car (C-segment in Europe) manufactured by the Ford Motor Company and created under Alexander Trotman’s Ford 2000 plan, which aimed to globalize model development and sell one compact vehicle worldwide. The original Focus was primarily designed by Ford of Europe’s German and British teams.

The Focus was released in July 1998 in Europe, succeeding the Ford Escort, and replaced the Mazda Familia-derived Ford Laser in Asia and Oceania along with the Laser-based North American Escort. Wayne Stamping & Assembly started producing the Focus for North America with sales beginning in 1999. The last North American-produced Focus rolled off the line at the Michigan Assembly Plant on May 4, 2018. Production of the fourth generation Focus began in 2018 in Germany and in China.

DESIGN

Ford hasn’t quite caught on to the notion of developing a premium interior in a sub-premium segment. The Focus’s interior is one of the dreariest in class, with lots of gray, scratchy plastics all over. That said, the dash layout is simple and easy to use and understand, and if you select the right trim level you’ll get Ford’s intuitive and easy to use SYNC 3 system with touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

The driving position is great, low enough to sink into the car, but commanding enough to give great visibility. Up front there’s also plenty of interior space. Sadly, that doesn’t continue to the rear where the Focus is one of the most cramped in class, with taller occupants finding leg room to be particularly tight. Trunk space is ample, though not extraordinary, with 13.2 cubic feet in sedan trim, and 23.3 cu ft in the hatch.

SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THE FOCUS SEDAN

• Driving (Ride and Handling)

It isn’t any wonder why the Focus ST and RS are so much fun to drive. Even in commuter specification, the Ford Focus is what could be safely deemed as a driver’s car. The chassis is composed and sure-footed, with a slightly firmer edge to the suspension, but one that still remains supple over choppy surfaces. Body lean is present, but relatively minimal by class standards, giving the Focus a settled feel when cornering.

Though front wheel drive, front end grip is good – not quite Honda Civic good, but few things are – and the rear end has a hint of playfulness about it. Turn in is crisp and quick, and impressively, Ford has managed to nail the steering weighting and feel – a feat most manufacturers fail to do when it comes to electronically power assisted steering systems. But with a brilliant chassis, it’s a pity the engines don’t quite keep up.

• Performance (Engine and Transmission)

An electric variant is available, but for most, the combustion powered models will be the default choice. A 2.0-liter engine develops 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque to drive the front wheels through a 6-speed manual (5-speed in base Focus S Sedan) or a clunky 6-speed Powershift dual clutch automatic – the latter being the only option in the hatch. An optional 1.0-liter turbo 3 cylinder develops 123hp and 125 lb-ft, but both engines feel overwhelmed by the Focus’s size. The 1.0-liter boasts the best claimed consumption figures of 30 city MPG and 40 highway MPG with a manual gearbox.

• Equipment and Safety

4 trim lines are available; S (sedan only), SE, SEL, and Titanium. The S cuts amenities like power rear windows to create a cheaper entry point, but can feel poverty-spec. The SE gets cruise control and an optional heated leather steering wheel, while SEL models get dual-zone climate, and SYNC 3 as standard. The Titanium trim gets all SEL amenities, plus heated leather seats and shift lever, and remote start. Optional safety equipment on the Titanium includes blind spot assistant and a lane-keeping system. The Focus scored 5 out of 5 stars in NHTSA testing, with predominantly Good results from the IIHS.

HOW TO MAINTANCE OF YOUR FORD FOCUS?

• Maintain your engine

Maintaining your vehicle properly helps it lasts longer and run more efficiently. An oil and filter change is important, and should be done frequently.

Learn more about the benefits of scheduling maintenance at your dealership.

• Repair your exterior

If you are in an accident, promptly file an insurance claim and use the claim money to repair the damage as soon as possible. Waiting can allow rust to set in, leading to other more serious problems.

• Drive smart

Avoid aggressive driving, which can damage your vehicle and may decrease its resale value. Refrain from jackrabbit starts, fast stops, speeding and weaving through traffic, as well. Following these recommendations can help keep your brakes, engine, tires and suspension from wearing prematurely – and even help improve your fuel economy.

• Keep complete service records

Keep complete service and maintenance records, along with any other receipts for parts and accessories, so you can show prospective buyers that your vehicle is well cared for.

Source: wikipedia, carbuzz, caranddriver.