Is the Ford Focus a good car to buy?

As one of the most popular car models, the Ford Focus is a solid option when looking for a used car. Spanning four generations and offering multiple engine configurations, there are plenty of choices available for both the budget-friendly and performance-focused drivers.

Why is the Ford Focus discontinued?

Ford announced in 2022 that it would be discontinuing the Focus by 2025. This move allows the manufacturer to focus more heavily on electric vehicles and crossovers, which are gaining more popularity.

What will replace the Ford Focus?

When Ford discontinues the Focus in 2025, it will be replaced with a similar model that runs on electric. An EV Focus aims to provide the same style and practicality as the current versions, but with zero tailpipe emissions and heightened technology.

How much is the Ford Focus in 2024?

Newer models start at around £28,000, which is a more expensive cost than what most Focus buyers expect to pay. Previous models sold for less when new and can be purchased on the used market for a reasonable price.

Which Ford Focus model is best?

Ford has produced a variety of trim levels, from entry-level to high-performance sports variants. If you desire high-end technology and superior comfort, then the ST-Line X provides the best overall package.

Is it worth buying a Focus ST?

The ST provides the best performance of the most recent bunch, but also has the highest starting price. It's worth the cost if you want a higher-powered engine and sleek style. Even the interior has fun upgrades, such as a premium B&O sound system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

4,971 Used Ford Focus cars for sale

Ford Focus2022 - 1.5 EcoBlue Active 5dr Auto

Low Mileage

£16,851

1.5L
20.7K
Miles
Diesel
Automatic
Estate

Perrys Milton Keynes Peugeot

01908049752 *

4.2/5 Stars

Ford Focus2019 (69) - 1.0T EcoBoost ST-Line X Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (125 ps)

Low Mileage

£11,400

Finance available £232 pm

1L
45.3K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Nuneaton Car Sales Ltd

02475187138 *

Ford Focus2016 (16) - 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr

Low Mileage

£5,199

Finance available £94 pm

1L
67.7K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

The Big Motor Company Ltd

01482947783 *

Ford Focus2012 (12) - 1.6 Zetec 5dr

Reduced

£2,695

1.6L
110.5K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Cars of Kinson

01202001903 *

2.9/5 Stars

Ford Focus2015 - 1.5 TDCi Zetec 5-Door

£4,250

Finance available £73 pm

1.5L
120.0K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Hatchback

Peak Motors Limited

01663790344 *

4.8/5 Stars

Ford Focus2023 - Estate ST-Line X 1.0 125PS 5-Door

£17,999

Finance available £319 pm

1L
29.2K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Estate

Gates of Woodford

02038730353 *

4.3/5 Stars

Ford Focus2007 (07) - 1.6 Zetec Climate 5dr

£1,495

1.6L
162.0K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Langmans Car Sales

01225436900 *

Ford Focus2018 - 1.0 EcoBoost 125 Titanium X 5dr

£9,295

Finance available £185 pm

1L
64.4K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

John Grose Lowestoft Ford

01502441694 *

4.8/5 Stars

Ford Focus2019 (19) - 1.5 EcoBlue ST-Line Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr

£8,500

Finance available £168 pm

1.5L
88.5K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Estate

Canvey Carriage Company

01268203836 *

4.3/5 Stars

Ford Focus2014 - 2.0 Focus ST-3 T 5dr

Low Mileage

£7,320

2L
85.4K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

JRP MOTORS

01283907012 *

Ford Focus2014 - 1.6 TDCi Titanium Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£4,995

1.6L
86.3K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Hatchback

Woodcroft Motors

01642030069 *

0/5 Stars

Ford Focus2016 - 1.5 TDCi 120 Zetec 5dr

£5,489

Finance available £100 pm

1.5L
88.0K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Hatchback

Key Kars

01405800965 *

Ford Focus2013 (13) - 1.6T EcoBoost Titanium X Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Low Mileage

£5,490

1.6L
73.6K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Tiley of Bristol

01174404957 *

0/5 Stars

Ford Focus2020 (20) - 1.5T EcoBoost Active Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr

Reduced

£10,790

Finance available £219 pm

1.5L
62.0K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

BMC Car Sales Group Ltd

01603937404 *

Ford Focus2013 (63) - 1.0 125 EcoBoost Zetec 5dr ULEZ Low Mileage

Low Mileage

£4,199

1L
62.5K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Low Cost Vans

01164646095 *

Ford Focus2009 (59) - 1.6 Zetec 5dr Auto

Low Mileage

£1,995

1.6L
104.0K
Miles
Petrol
Automatic
Hatchback

Saints Albans Trade Cars

01582280742 *

Ford Focus2021 - 1.5 EcoBlue 120 ST-Line 5dr

£10,950

Finance available £222 pm

1.5L
69.1K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Hatchback

S. McKeever Cars

02825440926 *

Ford Focus2012 (61) - 1.6T EcoBoost Titanium X Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Low Mileage

£6,000

1.6L
52.2K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Hatchback

Essex Select Cars Ltd

01206583604 *

Ford Focus2011 (61) - 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec 5dr

Low Mileage

£4,195

1.6L
72.0K
Miles
Diesel
Manual
Hatchback

Abbott Vehicle Sourcing

01248660470 *

4.2/5 Stars

Ford Focus2012 (12) - 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Low Mileage

£4,495

1L
76.1K
Miles
Petrol
Manual
Estate

Elm Motor Company

01752749650 *

4.4/5 Stars

Why buy a used Ford Focus?

If you're in the market for a family car that's comfortable, offers the latest innovations and can be found at a reasonable price, then a used Ford Focus is a great choice.

With more than 25 years of production, the Focus continues to be one of the most popular models on the road. Its sporty design combined with a comfortable cabin ensures that a long road trip is just as enjoyable as a daily drive to work.

Used Ford Focus snapshot review

Author: Jack Evans

View profile

Pros

One of the most reliable Ford models
Excellent value for money
Huge array of trim and engine choices

Cons

Some rivals are more spacious
Lower spec models have fewer features
Steep price depreciation if buying new

Read our Ford Focus review

Ford Focus video review

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Used Ford Focus buying guide

Engines and transmissions

Over the years, Ford has offered a variety of engines with the Focus, allowing drivers to choose between petrol and diesel motors. While some are designed for efficiency, others provide heightened performance for sport-focused drivers. 4th generation Focuses have an 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox, with recent variants, such as the 2.3-litre ST or mild-hybrid, using seven-speed automatic transmission.

Petrol

Popular 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine has up to 123bhp, depending on the variant.
For more excitement, a 1.5-litre engine is available, pushing out 147 or 179bhp, providing a 0-60 mph time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.
Fuel efficiency ratings sit between 47.9 and 54.3 mpg, ensuring that less is spent at the pump.

Diesel

1.5-litre EcoBlue engine outputs 120bhp, creating an efficient ride.
Even more performance is offered by the 148bhp 2.0-litre engine.
Fuel consumption ratings between 35.3 and 52.3 mpg provide cost-effective operation.

Practicality

Even though the Focus isn't the largest option in the class, it offers plenty of space and is a great family hatchback.

Interior space

Controls conveniently placed within driver's reach.
Fairly large rear space, providing ample room for most people.
Front-centre armrest lifts up to provide a deep storage area.

Boot space

Hatchback provides 390 litres of boot space, making it comparable to the Vauxhall Astra and VW Golf.
Estate offers 608 litres of boot space for even more cargo.
Convenient shape of boot opening provides minimal obstruction for loading or unloading.

Bodystyles

Hatchback features a sporty, fun design.
Estate models are larger, allowing for more interior space.

Safety

Euro NCAP rating is a perfect five stars, ensuring that the model is safe for all occupants.
Impressive 87% child occupant protection rating.
Standard safety kit comes with traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.

Technology

Large 13.2-inch infotainment display on newer models is user-friendly.
X models earn a fully digital instrument display.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enhance connectivity.

Different generations of used Ford Focus

When the Ford Focus launched in 1998, no one knew that it would grow to be one of the UK's most popular C-segment vehicles. From day one, the Focus has been known for stylish appeal, features superior handling, and remains updated with the latest equipment.

Now in its 4th generation, the Focus is considered one of the most practical and affordable models. Earlier generations, even though they don't have as much standard equipment, are still considered dependable and can fit a tight budget better than the newer models.

Fourth Generation (2018 to Present)

The 4th generation Focus models have been available as either an estate or, more commonly, a five-door hatchback. An Active model was added to the lineup, allowing for a raised ride height to fit in better with the crossovers and SUVs. The Mk4s offer increased technology features and a more spacious cabin than the previous generation.

With the ability to shut down cylinders as they aren't being used, and by incorporating an 7-speed automatic transmission, fuel efficiency is one of the improvements found on the newest Focus models. The larger touchscreen, more sophisticated interior materials and recent facelift all add to the slightly higher price of these cars.

Fuel type:: Diesel / Petrol
Engine Size:: 1 - 2.3
MPG:: 34 - 80
Acceleration:: 5.7 - 13.9 seconds
Boot space:: 273 - 728 L capacity
NCAP Safety rating:: 5 / 5 stars

Greenest
1.0 EcoBoost 125 Zetec 5dr
Cheapest
1.0 EcoBoost 85 Style 5dr
Fastest
2.3 EcoBoost ST 5dr

Third Generation (2011 to 2018)

Available as estate and five-door hatchback versions, these Focus models have a radically redesigned interior. A 2014 facelift improved the overall ergonomics, and replaced the touchscreen infotainment system with an updated variant.

Diesel models were the most popular during this time because of the lower overall running costs, yet the 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine offered a smaller capacity with turbocharged power. The ST trim delivers a sporty version, and it can be equipped with either a petrol or diesel engine, while a Focus RS (starting in 2016) is available with a 350bhp 2.3-litre turbo engine and four-wheel drive for more capability.

Fuel type:: Diesel / Full Electric / Petrol
Engine Size:: 2.3
MPG:: 36 - 83
Acceleration:: 4.7 - 14.9 seconds
Boot space:: 237 - 476 L capacity
NCAP Safety rating:: 5 / 5 stars

Greenest
107kW Electric 33kWh 5dr Auto
Cheapest
1.6 85 Studio 5dr
Fastest
2.3 EcoBoost 5dr

Buying a used car checklist: what to look for

Buying a used car can be a daunting task, but with our checklist, you can make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

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