Ford Focus Review
| Ratings |
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| Overall: |
 
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| Comfort: |
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| Performance: |
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| Quality: |
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| Appearance: |
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| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
Hatchback design |
Least favorite feature: |
Front seat comfort on long trips |
Advice to buyer: |
Negotiate a good deal and you will love the car |
Detailed review: |
Being my second Focus (my first a stripper 2000 zx3), I have much to compliment about this small car, it is not, however, flawless. My 2000 was a great handling, well designed car with an interior that seemed mush more upmarket than the competition. The car was plauged by several recalls, which were quickly handled by my dealer. My 2003 is a ZX5 (5 door h/b), with the premium package- including abs, 6 disc cd, keyless entry, and power moonroof. The 5 speed manuel shifts smoothly, although I've encountered the same mysterious noise at idol. My dealer fixed the noise in my old car under warranty (eventually replacing the entire clutch to stop the noise), and will be doing the same for my 2003 (though only the clutch plate?).
The 2003 has the same great handling charateristics, fair gas mileage (by now shouldn't small cars be getting over 40mpg??), in addition to power everything lacking in my base 2000 model. I again chose the standard transmission for better lane entry/exit and gas mileage (and, let's face it- fun!)
While love my focus, the competition has caught up, the new Mazda 3 (based on a euro focus) seems much more upscale. Still, you can get a great deal on a focus (my 03 loaded leftover was under 13K after dealing and incentives).
Ford has addressed many of the quality demons, and it certainly surpasses the domestic competition by miles (both Dodge's Neon and Chevy's Cavalier are quite long in the tooth), but the japanese (and we'll soon see the new golf/jetta) seem to have caught up. |
Also considered: |
2003 Volkswagen Golf
2003 Acura RSX
2003 MINI Cooper
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Vehicle purchased: |
2003 Ford Focus
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| About This Reviewer... |
Name: |
B E |
Location: |
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
Other vehicles owned: |
1998 Volvo 960
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Review submitted: |
September 18, 2004 |
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