The compact Ford Focus has been in production since 1998. It has consistently been popular in Europe and has gone through numerous facelifts over the years, keeping up with changing trends and consumer preferences. It has earned a reputation as a safe and reliable car, receiving numerous awards for safety features and performance. Overall, the Focus can be characterized as a versatile car, suitable for various types of drivers and driving needs.
Third Generation Ford Focus (2011-2018)
The third generation Ford Focus, introduced in 2011, became an extremely successful model, offering a range of features and options appealing to a broad spectrum of buyers. Available in sedan, hatchback, and wagon body styles, it is known for its sleek and modern design.
In this review, we focus on the hatchback – the most popular version. This generation also marked the introduction of the electric Focus, sold for the first time in Europe. The third generation Focus is equipped with advanced technologies and safety systems, including Ford SYNC (phone and audio control), a rearview camera, and parking sensors.
Engines of the Third Generation Ford Focus
For the European market, the third generation Ford Focus offers a variety of engine choices. The standard gasoline engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder unit, but several turbocharged options are available, including the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost. Engines are paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Here's a full list:
- 1.0 EcoBoost (gasoline, 100 hp, 125 hp, and 138 hp, from 2012)
- 1.5 EcoBoost (gasoline, 150 hp and 182 hp, from 2015, replaced the similarly powered 1.6 EcoBoost)
- 1.6 Duratec Ti-VCT (gasoline, 85 hp, 105 hp, and 125 hp, discontinued in 2016)
- 1.5 TDCi Duratorq (diesel, 95 hp, 105 hp, and 120 hp, from 2014)
- 1.6 TDCi Duratorq (diesel, 95 hp, 105 hp, and 115 hp, discontinued in 2016)
- 2.0 TDCi Duratorq (diesel, 150 hp, 163 hp, and 185 hp)
- Electric (23 kWh battery, updated to 33.5 kWh in 2017)
Usually, in the automotive industry, engine updates are synchronized with the release of a facelift version. However, as seen above, Ford has made numerous changes to the engine lineup throughout the third generation's lifecycle.
Advantages of the Third Generation Ford Focus
One of the main advantages of the third generation Ford Focus is its handling and comfort. The car is known for its balanced road behavior, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers.
The car also offers good fuel efficiency, especially with the EcoBoost engines, known for their low emissions and high performance.
The third generation Ford Focus provides a spacious interior, making it a good choice for families and those needing extra space for passengers or luggage. The trunk capacity is 362 liters.
Disadvantages of the Third Generation Ford Focus
Among the disadvantages of the third generation Ford Focus is the low quality of interior materials. Many have criticized the use of cheap materials in the cabin, not meeting the standards of some competitors. Additionally, the car's infotainment system is considered outdated and not very user-friendly.
The 1.5-liter diesel engine TDCi is known to have problems with the turbocharger, injectors, and DPF system, and there was a recall campaign for the 1.6-liter EcoBoost due to the risk of fire from a cooling system defect. There were 29 such cases reported in the US and Canada, but Ford stopped producing this engine in 2015, and the issues have been resolved.
Which Third Generation Ford Focus to Buy?
It’s advisable not to buy a model with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost from the early years of production. If considering a diesel version, note that after the facelift, improvements were made to the diesel engines and other aspects of the Focus model to improve overall driving quality. Thus, these models are considered less problematic than pre-facelift options.
Considering the facelifted version, the most reliable engine choice for the third generation Ford Focus is the 1.0-liter EcoBoost. This engine is known for its fuel efficiency, low emissions, and has received positive reviews from both experts and owners.