Affordable and modern, the used Ford Focus offers everything shoppers want from a compact car. Choose from sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles—all of which supply an efficient commute and sharp, sporty handling. Inside, the Focus is comfy and high-tech. Our comparison guide is here to help you figure out which used Focus model years have the features you crave.
Third Generation: 2012-2018
Third-generation used Ford Focus highlights:
- Smooth, refined ride and quiet cabin
- Quick, precise steering
- Roomy, comfortable seating and upscale interior options
- Optional high-tech infotainment and safety features
The third-generation used Ford Focus puts an affordable price on an excellent commute. Outside, these used Focus models are handsome and modern. Inside, they’re much the same.
These models are available in four-door sedan and hatchback body styles. Hatchback models offer a little extra cargo space and a sportier exterior style. Sedans have a more traditional vibe, with classy exterior style. This generation is home to three main trim levels, the base S, mid-range SE, and upscale Titanium. There’s also an all-electric Focus and a high-performance Focus ST trim model.
At the outset, only one engine was available, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that’s quick to get going with 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Shoppers had the choice of a five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission, so you’ll see both on the used lot. Fuel economy is another high point; some used Focus models earn up to 34 mpg combined.
Changes:
- The 2016 Ford Focus replaced the MyFord Touch infotainment system with the Sync 3 system. Sync 3 includes an updated 8-inch for a quicker, more streamlined experience. Sync 3 also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
- Also for 2016, the Focus’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine was available with a new six-speed automatic transmission. This engine still came standard with a six-speed manual transmission; the new automatic transmission was optional.
- Ford gave the 2015 Focus a mid-cycle refresh, with new styling inside and out, as well as new infotainment and high-tech safety features. A newly optional turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine aims to please with a healthy balance of power and efficiency.
- The 2013 Focus discontinued the mid level SEL trim model, which previously slotted between the mid-grade SE and the top-trim Titanium.
Second Generation: 2008-2011
Second-generation used Ford Focus highlights:
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Stylish cabin
- Punchy engine and nimble performance
- High-tech modern options
The second-generation used Ford Focus is also a great choice, especially if you’re in the market for a great price on a modern car. These models are available as two-door coupes or four-door sedans.
Under these hoods, you’ll find a 2.0-liter inline-4 that pumps out 140 horses. Used models will have either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Originally, these Focus models were available as three trim levels, no matter the body style: the base S, mid-grade SE, and sporty SES.
Throughout this era, Ford made a few important updates. When you’re shopping for your used model, make sure you select a model year that has all the features you crave.
Here’s a look at the important second-generation Ford Focus updates:
- Because the coupe models were discontinued, the 2011 Focus was only available as a sedan.
- The 2010 Ford Focus was the first to come standard with stability control, technology that helps you maintain on-road precision and safety.
- For 2009, Ford shuffled the Focus trim lineup. Coupes were available as SE and SES models. Sedans trims were the S, SE, SES, and SEL.