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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Ford Focus

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Overview

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2012 Ford Focus Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.2

The 2012 Ford Focus gets a clean-sheet recasting that brings a new look, enhanced quality, more features, and upgraded options in a slightly larger but far more dynamic package. Based on Ford's global C-platform, this compact front-driver features an international design pedigree and introduces numerous class-exclusive technologies, including a host of premium-level creature comforts. Available as a 4-door sedan and a new 5-door hatchback, the 2012 Focus is also offered as a pure battery-electric vehicle with a 76-mile range and an impressive 110 miles-per-gallon-equivalent (MPGe) city rating. While the new Chevrolet Cruze and Honda Civic are its key rivals, formidable challenges will also come from the Mazda3, Nissan Sentra and Toyota Corolla as well as newly redesigned and very impressive Hyundai Elantra and its Kia Forte cousin.

You'll Like This Car If...

Buyers seeking a compact vehicle with class-leading character and technology – from MyFord Touch infotainment and Active Park Assist to corner-taming torque-vectoring control and a PowerShift dual-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission – will find plenty to admire in the 2012 Ford Focus line.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Some more conservative buyers may deem its new looks a bit too radical, but the biggest hurdle the 2012 Focus could face is one of cost. Those willing to forgo a few of the latest tech touches for a lower price point are apt to see better perceived value in alternatives like the new Chevy Cruze, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.2
Driving Dynamics

7.3
Comfort & Convenience

7.0
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.8
Value

6.5
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#15

out of 27

MPG

#4

out of 27

Horsepower

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Consumer Rating

7.2 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2012

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.

Driving the Focus

Driving Impressions Built around a stiffer, stronger unit body structure underpinned by a comprehensively retuned and Euro-flavored suspension that brings better damping and roll control plus quick, well-weighted electrically assisted power steering...

the 2012 Ford Focus feels comfortable, confident and impressively responsive to driver inputs under virtually all conditions. Although stepping up in trim level and the accompanying wheel/tire enhancements does impact ride compliance – particularly with the 18-inch rims and 40-series tires available on Titanium models – Ford has done an excellent job of bringing out the best in this component set regardless of configuration. When the going gets twisty, the new Focus bolsters its standard AdvanceTrak stability control with a new torque vectoring control system that acts like a limited-slip differential and helps the car accelerate out of corners more adroitly. Despite a soft-ish pedal, the well-modulated anti-lock brakes (disc/drum in S/SE, disc/disc in SLE/Titanium) deliver solid, drama-free stops.

Favorite Features

MYFORD TOUCH
Optional on Focus SEL models and standard on Titanium trim levels, Ford's top-line infotainment/telematics package is based on an even more advanced and expansive application of the automaker's acclaimed SYNC voice-command system and includes a premium 10-speaker Sony sound system, with HD Radio, media hub, in-car Wi-Fi access and more.

SUPER FUEL ECONOMY (SFE) PACKAGE
Available on autoshifted SE models, the SFE Package includes auto-articulated, aero-optimizing grille shutters – an unseen mileage-enhancing element also found on most other Focus models fitted with the PowerShift transmission – as well as low-rolling resistance tires, wind-cheating wheel covers and a tasteful rear spoiler that collectively bring the car's projected EPA highway figure up to 40 mpg.

2012 Ford Focus Details

2012 Ford Focus Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Slightly roomier but with a far more upscale look and feel than its predecessor, the 2012 Focus cabin sets off a decidedly premium flavor with loads of soft-touch surfaces and an abundance of effectively integrated sound-attenuation materials. Legible instrumentation and well positioned controls in all versions are complemented by an 8.0-inch full-color touch screen that replaces the normal multifunction display on SEL/Titanium models fitted with the primo MyFord Touch infotainment/navigation system. The rear seat is scaled for 2 mid-sized adults but decently padded for three kids. Folding the standard/optional 60/40 rear seatbacks to a semi-flat position adds utility to the Sedan's 13.2 cubic feet conventional trunk and raises capacity of the Hatchback's rear bay from 23.8 to 44.8 cubic feet.

Exterior

Both the Focus Sedan and Hatchback display the latest evolution of Ford's "kinetic design" language that is both more aggressive and more aerodynamic. While their overall footprints remains similar to the 2011 Sedan, a slightly lower roofline, longer wheelbase and substantially wider front/rear track dimensions give the 2012 Focus lineup a more planted appearance. Effectively accenting the new look are stylized headlight/taillight treatments, with the Focus EV sharing most styling cues with its gasoline-dependent counterpart, apart from the charge port prominently mounted on the driver's side front fender. Wheel selections range from 15-inch steel wheels on the Focus S Sedan to 17-inch aluminum rims on Titanium and Electric variants – and the availability of an 18-inch upgrade that also brings 235/40 performance tires and a sport-tuned suspension.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Even the base Focus S Sedan gets an impressive complement of power assists, air conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering column, keyless remote entry, 4-speaker radio, AdvanceTrac stability control, front disc/rear drum brakes and six airbags. Key SE-level gains include power rear windows, a trip computer, programmable MyKey, foglamps and 16-inch wheel/tires while the SEL adds the 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission, dual-zone climate control, SYNC, upgraded audio, cruise control, LED ambient lighting, 60/40 folding rear seatbacks, 4-wheel disc brakes and 16-inch alloy wheels. The range-topping Titanium also nets push-button starting, MyFord Touch with 10-speaker Sony HD sound system, Sirius Satellite Radio (with six months free), sport seats, sport suspension, 17-inch wheel/tire package and more.

Optional Equipment

The new Focus offers a wide selection of upgrades linked to the model hierarchy. At S level, the 6-speed dual-clutch autoshifter and remote starting dominate an intentionally modest list, but the SE Sedan offers that plus a power moonroof, voice-activated navigation, Super Fuel Economy/Interior/Winter/Sport Packages – all but the SFE also available on SE hatches – a MyFord Driver Connect technology/SYNC Package, leather upholstery and more. Extras for the SEL and Titanium versions include leather as well as voice-activated navigation and the Technology Package (Active Park Assist, front/rear sensors, rearview camera), plus the premium MyFord Touch telematics/infotainment system – a Titanium standard. Going Titanium also permits a dedicated sport suspension with 18-inch wheels with performance tires. To help simplify the ordering process, leather seating is the sole option on the Focus Electric's menu.

Under the Hood

All 2012 Focus models are fitted with a new, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter in-line four that features gasoline direct fuel-injection and Ford's twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT). This smooth free-revver makes 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque – 20 more horsepower and 10 additional torque than its 2011 predecessor – and can be paired with a 5-speed manual or a new 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. On SE with Sport Package/SEL/Titanium models, the automated-manual cog changer adds SelectShift capability via a rocker switch on the shift lever. Formal EPA figures are pending, but Ford anticipates about 10 percent better overall fuel economy and autoshifted SE Sedans fitted with the mileage-maxing SFE Package are projected to net 40 mpg on the highway. Motivating the Focus Electric is a 143-horsepower permanent magnet motor powered by a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which returns a remarkable 105 mpg equivalency combined rating from the EPA.

2.0-liter inline-4
160 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
146 lb-ft of torque @ 4,450 rpm
EPA City/highway fuel economy: 26/36 mpg (manual), 28/38 mpg (automatic), 27/37 mpg (SelectShift automatic), 28/40 (SFE trim, automatic)

Synchronous electric motor/generator
24kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack
107kW/143 horsepower
184 lb-ft of torque
Projected per-charge range: 76 miles
EPA city/highway fuel economy equivalent: 110/99 MPGe

Pricing Notes

Even more than it did with the launch of its subcompact Fiesta, Ford intends to aggressively position the 2012 Focus as a premium offering within today's compact ranks based on its impressive roster of advanced design elements and available upgrades. Although the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) on the new Focus S and high-volume SE Sedan models remains at virtual 2011 levels – under $17,000 and $18,000 respectively – the SEL Sedan starts near $21,000 while the Titanium 4-door and hatch variants open in a loftier $23,000-$23,500 window and can be optioned to near $27,000 – a figure that will definitely put Ford's pricing/packaging philosophy to the ultimate real-world test. The 2012 Focus Electric carries a rather lofty sticker price of just under $40,000, but qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. While kbb.com has yet to rate projected resale percentages on the 2012 Focus, this new and comprehensively improved package is almost certain to close the residual value gap with the Honda Civic and Mazda Mazda3, which currently lead this extremely price-sensitive segment in that critical arena.

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2012 Ford Focus Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

7.2

Out of 10

Based on 171 Ratings for the 2012 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

7.3/10

Quality

7.3/10
Reliability

7.2/10

Performance

7.8/10
Comfort

7.5/10

Styling

8.1/10

great car

By chefmel (NH) on Monday, July 29, 2013

I want this car

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"u can turn this car on a dime it gets great gas milage i get about 7 mile s a gallon more than the sticker days"

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Love this car! It rides like a much larger car!

By Ford81 (MD) on Saturday, July 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 7,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "perfomance and gas mileage"

Cons: "door lock button and hands free mic location"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I don't understand what people are complaining about, the car ride is very quite and its very fast. The transmission does its job, it allows the the car to have performance and still get 30 - 40 mpg consistently. The price point is very good, good room inside, great performance, great mileage, bluetooth hands free standard, what more do you want? I have over 7000 miles and several trips without any problems. I have a 2011 Prius and I prefer to drive the Focus."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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It's good, but not great

By Simon (NY) on Monday, July 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,500

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 7/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 5/10

Pros: "Smooth ride, great mpg"

Cons: "Transmission needs a lot of work"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 6

"My biggest gripe with the car, other than a couple of minor interior problems and the rock hard cloth bucket seats, is the transmission. Yes, I sound like a broken record because everyone complains about the DCT like no tomorrow, but seriously it shifts worse than a regular automatic. The shifts are clunky, it's confused constantly as to which gear it is supposed to be in, and it makes weird grinding noises which can be very disconcerting to a new driver. Despite that, I have been averaging nearly 31mpg with mixed driving so I'm happy the mpg is true. I'm also glad that I leased the vehicle and can move onto something much better than this in a years time."

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Do not buy!!

By abzymomof2band2g on Wednesday, July 17, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,200

10 1.0

overall rating 1 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 1/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 2/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 1/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 3/10

Pros: "very pretty, quiet windshiel wipers"

Cons: "Too many to list. description"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"focus has a manual transmission that shifts automatically. It actually drives like someone just learning to drive a manual transmission. Very jerky ride. Rolls back bad when you stop on a hill. It feels like it is going to stall when you take off and the engine is cold, you cannot trust it to pull into traffic until the engine is warm. The trunk is too low to be able to put a cooler in it, in fact the trunk while looking big is very awkward, groceries do not fit well. Be careful about syncing it with your phone, it eats text messages-I don't try to read them while driving and they are not in my phone when I get out of the car. You won't find all the problems at test drive, they just keep showing up the longer you have it. Dealer won't take it back!! The only thing Ford is willing to do is give me a maintenance package. Great, I don't pay for anything while I pray it gets totaled, the only way I can get out of it."

8 people out of 13 found this review helpful

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Zippy little sports car!!

By racininheaven3 (GA) on Tuesday, July 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 37,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, handles great, awesome gas mileage!"

Cons: "Factory stereo, seats uncomfortable on long rides"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this demo in September 2012 because I needed a newer, dependable car with good gas mileage to commute 60+ miles one way to work. I went to the dealer to look at the new Dodge Dart, but after not seeing one I liked my salesman (this is the 4th car I've bought from him, he knew I'd love the spoiler and the sunroof!!!) had me look at the demo he was driving. I loved the color, the sunroof, the spoiler, and the styling of the car immediately!! From the front, the car is very aggressive looking and sporty. When I got it, it had steel wheels and ugly hubcaps (it's an SFE model and had low resistance hubcaps) and no stripes or graphics like it does now. I get AWESOME gas mileage, 34MPG around town, 42MPG on long trips to Charlotte, Nashville, etc. The only drawbacks I found with this car are the factory stereo in this one wasn't SiriusXM ready and didn't sound like I wanted (so I changed the head unit to one with Bluetooth and MP3, and was SiriusXM ready, added SiriusXM, and a box with two 12s and a Rockford Fosgate amp), and on a longer trip (like Nashville) the seats are kind of uncomfortable (I'm used to the comfy, couch-like seats in my 2002 Grand Marquis), but they're fine for trips to Charlotte and back-which I do quite frequently. The sporty handling, great gas mileage and aggressive look of the car outweigh the cons in a BIG way!!! I never thought I would like a small, economy car and I always owned and drove Lincoln Town Cars or Mercury Grand Marquis (I still have one). Even though I am nearly 50 years old, I LOVE THIS SPORTY CAR!!!! I'd highly recommend this Focus to anyone!!! BTW, this is my first brand new car ever!!!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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DO NOT BUY THIS CAR

By Nina (NM) on Sunday, July 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 470

10 1.0

overall rating 1 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 1/10
Value: 2/10
Reliability: 1/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 1/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: 5/10

Pros: "good gas mileage."

Cons: "trans. rough gear shift"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I bought a 2013 Ford C-max and after it died 3 times and replaced battery, Ford bought it back at full price ( minus taxes). In turn I bought a 2013 Ford Focus, Not even 500 miles and it jerks every time I take off from complete stop. It makes rattling noise when I make a left or right turn and sometimes when I take off from a complete stop. Wanted to support American made products but I REGRET ever buying a Ford. All this has happened in the past 3 months. Completely disappointed with Ford. Taking car in tomorrow to dealer. Do not buy any FORD!!!!!"

5 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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See all 171 reviews