Ford Focus
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Fully redone for 2012, the Ford Focus is largely unchanged for the 2013 model year except for the availability of a 5-speed manual transmission on the top-line Titanium trim level, the departure of the semi-premium SEL version in favor of a more comprehensively-appointed SE and the arrival of the hot, new Focus ST (reviewed separately).
A comprehensive makeover raises an already popular player in its segment to a position of prominence and possible dominance thanks to the addition of a new hatchback body style, greatly-expanded/upgraded feature set and a range-topping Titanium trim level. And while the 2012 Ford Focus Electric marks the Blue Oval's first crack at a mainstream electric car, they succeeded in producing a relatively affordable gas-free vehicle that drives, feels and looks like a conventional car.
The Focus Coupe is dropped from the lineup, leaving only the Focus Sedan. There are no other major changes for 2011.
New standard equipment for 2010 includes anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, remote keyless entry, power door locks, MyKey configurable key and a driver's message center. SE, SES and SEL models receive a perimeter alarm, while a new SE Sedan Appearance Package adds 15-inch alloy wheels, decklid spoiler and fog lamps. Also new this year is the available SYNC communications system with Traffic, Directions and Information, which can provide traffic updates as well as turn-by-turn directions.
An SEL trim is added to the sedan lineup, touting leather seating, the SYNC audio system and chrome door handles. The SES trims receive a refreshed front grille, a roof-mounted rear spoiler (Coupe) and optional 17-inch wheels (Sedan). AdvanceTrac stability control is now available on all models.
Comprehensive restyling and retuning give the Focus a more contemporary flair and even better handling. The hatchbacks and wagon are discontinued, but the sedan is joined by a new coupe. All now feature air conditioning, tilt steering column and front, front-side and side-curtain airbags, plus SYNC (standard on SES) that adds in-car connectivity for cell phones and personal media players.
When Ford's compact Focus replaced the venerable Escort for the 2000 model year, it was America's state-of-the-art small car. Its distinctive looks, roomy packaging, lively performance and agile, fun-to-drive handling drew critics' raves and accolades ranging from Motorweek's Best Small Car to North American Car of the Year, the latter voted by a jury of 49 North American journalists. A series of quality glitches and recalls soiled its reputation for a while but were eventually overcome. For 2007, aging but still strong, it still deserves a place on small-car shopping lists.
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A very good car for commuters
By ABQmedic (NM) on Wednesday, July 11, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,500
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Fun to drive, good sound system, no cheap feel."
Cons: "Lack of storage, a little pricey for a compact car"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I commute 45 miles each way to work. I needed a car that would get good mileage and be comfortable to sit in for extended periods. The Focus is both of these and much more. I am currently averaging 37 mpg (3 fill ups so far). The front seats are very comfortable, but the driver seat lacks an adjustable lumbar support (in the SE version I own). I use a small towel roll to make up the difference. The car has plenty of power, accelerating and shifting smoothly. The audio system (6 speaker with SIRIUS) is more than adequate for the average audiophile, reproducing wonderful sound. The hand controls on the steering wheel were confusing at first, but now are very convenient and intuitive. The only ammenity that I find lacking in this car is the absence of "cubbies." I have no real good place to put all of my... goodies. The glove box is very spacious. The center console is smallish. The cup holders in front are smallish. The door panels seem to have adequate space. But that is it. Can I live with this small flaw? Absolutely. It the car a blast to drive? You're darn tootin' it is. It handles corners like more expensive BMW's or VW's. It feels substancial and refined, yet nimble. Nothing about this car seems cheep or poorly made. The two words I can say: Buy one!"
9 people out of 9 found this review helpful
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Just bought this car, and absolutely love it
By John (VA) on Thursday, January 26, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 500
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Great mileage, fun to drive, high quality, price"
Cons: "None that I've found so far"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
2012 Ford Focus S sedan, 5-speed manual, 100A equipment package, sterling gray metallic
"I just bought the 2012 Focus S sedan, with the 5-speed manual transmission. We didn't get any of the upgrade packages to keep the cost a little lower since we were working on a bit of a budget, and I really didn't see a need for most of them anyway. The car drives and feels like something that easily 'should' cost at least $10k more. The interior is very comfortable and high quality, and the controls are intuitive to use (standard radio system and AC controls). The trunk space is surprisingly generous, much better than previous compact cars I've owned. The engine has a lot of power, and mated with the manual transmission it can be zippy and responsive, or I can short shift for fuel economy. Even with short shifting and running in 4th or 5th gear a lot, it will still pick up speed when I need it. We researched the heck out of this purchase, settling in with the Focus for the features, styling, quality, ride, and price. So far, I'm averaging well above the EPA rated 36 mpg...with my most recent fill-up at a mind-blowing 41 mpg, mostly highway. I'll see how it does in the next several tanks with more mixed driving, but I'm very impressed already. Hands-down this is the best car I've owned."
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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2012 Ford Focus S sedan, 5-speed manual, 100A equipment package, sterling gray metallic
An affordable car with so many good features!
By Rick (VA) on Sunday, February 17, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Good value, a lot of features for price"
Cons: "Center console is smallish"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"I bought the 2013 Ford Focus SE model in tuxedo black with automatic transmission. My overall initial assessment was that the car was literally packed with buttons, perhaps too many even. The Ford My Touch and Synch offer many valuable tools for the driver and connect with your phone or other devices for hands free use while driving. After starting it up and driving it I found the handling and power of this model to be superior to any other vehicle I tested in that class. I thought it was more ergonomic, fitted my 5' 10" and 217 lb body well, was responsive, nimble and just felt classy. Having done my research I knew it rated exceptionally by every testing agency, so it was not a surprise that it performed as well as it did. Compared to every other vehicle I drove in that class, the Focus was tops in my book hands down. I bought it and have put 3,000 miles on it, without any incident of note. I am more than pleased with the vehicle, and having owned many cars and trucks in my lifetime, I would have to say the Focus is in the running for being one of the best. I consider it just a fraction off of the BMW 3 series vehicle I owned, and superior in many ways to other, more exotic, cars I own. Ford hit a home run with this car, and I am very happy to own the focus."
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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