2012 - 2014

3rd Gen Focus

The modern Ford Focus is available as a four-door hatchback or sedan. Its eye-catching exterior is bested only by the high-quality materials inside the cabin. In addition to the high performance hatchback Focus ST and the gas-free Focus Electric, there are three main trims available - the S, SE, and Titanium.

Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, the third generation comes with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Both options offer superb fuel economy. With the Super Fuel Economy package, drivers can expect an EPA estimate of 33 mpg combined.

The Focus Electric needs no gas at all. This battery-powered vehicle can range over 76 miles between charges. Its 107-kilowatt electric drive motor runs on a 23kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can be completely charged in just four hours. Drivers can monitor the state of their car battery via Smartphone app.

The base S is equipped with air conditioning to cool down hot summer days. It full power features offer added comfort and convenience. A Focus S driver can plug his favorite device into the auxiliary jack to access his favorite music or Internet radio station over the car speakers.

With higher trims come more luxurious features. Ford's Sync allows drivers use voice control to keep their eyes on the road as they access their phone and audio interface. Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera help drivers ease into - and out of - tight spaces. Leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury to the cabin.

2008 - 2011

2nd Gen Focus

The second generation can be easily distinguished from the first by its square-ish styling. Used buyers can choose from both coupe and sedan body styles, except from the sedan-only 2011 model year. Originally, trim levels for both body styles were the base S, mid-level SE, and sporty SES. However, beginning in 2009, the trim levels became the S, SE, SES, and leather-sporting SEL for the sedan and SE for the coupe.

Stability control was optional until 2010, when it became standard. Ford's Sync system, which allowed drivers to access cell phones and audio options via voice control, was an option throughout this generation. At the time, this technology was rare, especially in this affordable class.

During these years, the Focus was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 that generated 140 horsepower or 130 horsepower in California-emissions states. Drivers could choose from a four-speed automatic transmission or a fun-to-drive five-speed manual transmission.

Modern buyers shopping this generation can expect to find solid, reliable vehicles. The second generation Ford Focus offers both excellent fuel economy and a cheerful driving experience.

2000 - 2007

1st Gen Focus

When the Ford Focus was introduced in 2000, it was available as the hatchback ZX3, sedan ZX4, and wagon ZXW. The base engine was a SOHC 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder that produced 110 horsepower. An optional DOHC 2.0-liter engine - the Zetec - made 130 horsepower. The first Focuses were available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

As they peruse this generation, used car shoppers should remember that Ford made a lot of changes throughout this period. For example, the trim levels were switched around and various features became either standard or optional for different model years.

Between 2000 and 2004, the Focus was offered as the base LX, midrange SE, and high-end ZTS. During those years, antilock brakes and front-seat side airbags were optional.

In 2002, the first four-door hatchback arrived. The SVT hatchback was available between 2002 and 2004. Difficult to find today, it was powered by a 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

Beginning in 2004, an optional 2.3-liter inline-4 became available, producing both 145 horsepower and cleaner emissions.