Overview of the Ford Focus
The Focus replaced Ford's legendary Escort model in 1997, though didn't reach Australia until 2002 - when it was substituted for the Laser as the Blue Oval brand's local small-car entrant. Despite its many positive attributes, and favourable press reviews, the Focus has never managed to achieve the kind of popularity it has enjoyed in Europe and the UK. However, hot-hatch versions of the Ford Focus, especially the flagship RS version, have established plenty of credibility among driving enthusiasts.
FORD FOCUS GENERATIONS (SINCE 2000)
2002-2005
2005-2011
2011-2018
Late-2018 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
1.5L 4-cylinder turbo: 5.8 to 6.4 litres per 100km
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo (ST): 7.3 litres per 100km
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo (RS): 8.1 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Every 15,000km or 12 months, whichever is sooner. Each service currently costs between $300 and $585 depending on variant. Ford Focus parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO FORD FOCUS
Holden Astra
Hyundai i30
Mazda 3
Toyota Corolla
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: FORD FOCUS (2012-2016)
The engine in the Focus is pretty unstressed and doesn't seem to give trouble. But, as always, check the service record to ensure all preventative maintenance has been carried out.
It's also worth checking with a Ford dealer that a couple of recalls have been attended to.
One was for a potential crack in the fuel tank, the other was for driveshafts that could - in a worst-case scenario - break, leaving the car with no drive.
The bigger question when it comes to this model Focus is whether you want a manual or automatic car.
If 'automatic' is the answer, then you need to check any prospective purchase carefully as the dual-clutch fitted to two-pedal focuses has not been without its durability issues.
Have the transmission checked by an independent specialist before doing the deal.
