Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) Review

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
This Ford Focus may not have been brand new but nonetheless it's good to drive, fairly practical and it feels well made. Factor in the improved cabin and high-tech features and the Focus is a great choice.

+Relaxed but still enjoyable to drive, well-equipped for the money, a huge choice on the used market.

-Not as practical as some rivals, can’t match its claimed fuel economy, firm ride.

Insurance Groups are between 10–26
On average it achieves 72% of the official MPG figure

As one of the nation’s most popular new cars, you’re not short of choice when buying a used Ford Focus. Launched in 2014, it was more a heavy facelift of its predecessor than an all-new model, but the changes were so significant, it felt like a new car. The exterior styling looks more premium, the infotainment system went up a level, and the new range of engines gave the Focus added punch and efficiency. Rivals include the Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Astra, but for driver appeal, nothing can top the Focus.

‘It doesn’t drive as well as a Ford Focus.’ How often have you read that line in a new car review? Far too often, but the fact remains, few cars can rival the Focus in terms of driver appeal. It’s been that way since the original Focus arrived in the late 90s.

Or has it? In truth, the Focus launched in 2011 failed to live up to expectations, making it feel like an also-ran, rather than a class leader. Something had to be done, which is why Ford rolled out some wholesale changes for the 2014 car.

Take the styling. Park a 2014 Focus alongside a 2013 car and the difference is stark. One looks old and frumpy, while the other looks sharp and contemporary. Dare we suggest that the front grille gives it the feel of an Aston Martin?

Changes on the inside extended to a simplified dashboard and a new infotainment system. Again, the difference between old and new is like night and day. There were new engines, too, including a remarkable 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol and a 1.5-litre TDCi diesel. Neither can offer the fuel economy claimed by Ford, but both offer an excellent blend of performance and economy.

It’s even better to drive than the outgoing model, feeling sharper, yet riding with more composure. Anyone who bought a new Ford Focus in 2013 would be forgiven for feeling a little grumpy when Ford unveiled the new car.

So far, so good, but the Focus is far from perfect. The boot is too small, laughably so if there’s a full-size spare wheel in the back. Rear-seat accommodation is a little cramped, especially for tall passengers, which means some rivals are more practical. You can see why so many people are gravitating to crossovers and SUVs.

Then there’s the cabin quality, which is fine, but nothing more than that. Some of the plastics and switchgear feel cheap, and there are none of the soft-touch materials you might find in, say, a Volkswagen Golf. At least it looks more upmarket, both inside and out.

It’s also worth mentioning the ride quality, which isn’t as supple as you’d find in the Golf or Astra. Not that we’re complaining, because the sharp handling, precise steering and taut suspension combine to make this a fine driver’s car. A Focus 1.0-litre Ecoboost feels like a junior hot hatchback that’s big enough to take the family along for the ride.

There’s a Focus for all. An estate version if you require more space. Titanium and Titanium X models for more toys and luxury. A hardcore RS for hot hatchback thrills. And a sporty ST for the best of both worlds. Prices start from £5,000, so a used Focus needn’t break the bank.

We don’t know what’s more remarkable, the fact that Ford dropped the ball so much when building the earlier Focus, or the fact that the 2014 update was such a comprehensive overhaul. Whatever, you know which Focus you need to buy. All that’s left is to decide on the engine and trim.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) handling and engines

Driving Rating
If you’ve read our reviews of other family hatchbacks, you’ll know that we reference the Ford Focus as the class-leader in terms of ride and handling.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Handling and ride quality

In truth, the earlier version of the Focus failed to reach the high standards set by its predecessors, but the 2014 put right many of the wrongs.

It offers a terrific blend of sharp handling and a supple ride, making it feel controlled and composed, regardless of the surface. It’s great to drive on a country lane, but it’s just as good on a long motorway schlep. Put simply, it’s the family hatchback for keen drivers. The 1.0 Ecoboost can rival many a junior hot hatchback in the fun department.

For some added spice, the Focus RS is a modern classic, while the Focus ST offers some of the thrills for a more affordable price.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Engines

Sales were dominated by the 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine, so this is likely to be the engine you’ll end up with when buying used. Not that this is a bad thing. The three-cylinder turbocharged motor might be small, but it packs a mighty punch. The 125PS version is arguably the best, with the 100PS version best reserved for town use.

Alternatively, the 1.5-litre Ecoboost petrol comes in 150PS or 182PS outputs, so is certainly quicker, but it lacks the low-range punch of the 1.0. The 1.5-litre TDCi is the pick of the diesels, with both the 95PS and 120PS offering a terrific blend of performance and economy. In all cases, avoid the power-sapping automatic transmission, unless you really need an auto.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Safety

Ford didn’t crash-test the 2014 Focus, so you’ll have to refer to the score from the 2012 test. It achieved a maximum five-star safety rating when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP.

Safety was a big feature of the 2014 facelift, so all models come with multiple airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system, heated windscreen, hill-start assist and something called Ford MyKey. This allows parents to program specific settings into the spare key, to stop their children from exceeding a certain speed or playing loud music.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Towing

The 2.0-litre TDCi engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 1800kg, but other models range from 1000kg to 1500kg. If you’re interested in towing, avoid the 105PS 1.5-litre TDCi, as this has a maximum capacity of just 400kg.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.0T EcoBoost 100 61–66 mpg 12.5 s 99–105 g/km
1.0T EcoBoost 125 60 mpg 11.0 s 108 g/km
1.0T EcoBoost 125 Automatic 51 mpg 12.0 s 125 g/km
1.0T EcoBoost 140 58 mpg 10.4 s 112 g/km
1.5 EcoBoost 150 51 mpg 8.9 s 127 g/km
1.5 EcoBoost 150 Automatic 46 mpg 9.2 s 140 g/km
1.5 EcoBoost 182 51 mpg 8.6 s 127 g/km
1.5 EcoBoost 182 Automatic 46 mpg 8.9 s 140 g/km
1.5 TDCi 105 ECOnetic 83 mpg 11.9 s 88 g/km
1.5 TDCi 120 74 mpg 10.5 s 98–99 g/km
1.5 TDCi 120 Powershift 67–74 mpg 10.8 s 99–109 g/km
1.5 TDCi 150 71 mpg 8.8 s 105 g/km
1.5 TDCi 150 Powershift 64 mpg 8.7 s 115 g/km
1.5 TDCi 95 74 mpg 12.0 s 98–99 g/km
1.6 105 48 mpg 12.3 s 136 g/km
1.6 85 48 mpg 14.9 s 136 g/km
1.6 Powershift 45 mpg 11.7 s 146 g/km
1.6 PowerShift 45 mpg 11.7 s 146 g/km
1.6 TDCi 115 67–74 mpg 10.5–12.0 s 98–109 g/km
1.6 TDCi 95 67 mpg 12.5 s 109 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 71 mpg 8.8 s 105 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 Powershift 64 mpg 8.7 s 115 g/km
2.0 TDCi 185 71 mpg 8.8 s 105 g/km
Electric - 11.0 s -

Real MPG average for the Ford Focus (2014 – 2018)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

72%

Real MPG

25–75 mpg

MPGs submitted

1821

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) interior

Interior Rating
Inside, the cabin feels robust and hard-wearing without the feeling of quality you get in, say, the Volkswagen Golf.
Dimensions
Length 4358–4360 mm
Width 2010 mm
Height 1484 mm
Wheelbase 2640–2649 mm

Full specifications

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Practicality

The Ford Focus isn’t the car to buy if you’re after class-leading practicality. With a tyre repair kit, the boot offers a reasonable 363 litres of boot space, but this drops to 316 litres in a car with a space-saver spare wheel. Worse still, there’s just 277 litres if you have a full-size spare. That’s a figure you’d associate with a small hatch.

It’s not even particularly spacious for rear seat passengers, although the seats are comfortable and there’s plenty of kneeroom. Things are better in the front, but it’s funny how quickly we’ve grown accustomed to the raised driving position and airy cabin of a crossover or SUV. A hatchback just doesn’t feel as spacious as an SUV.

There are two Isofix points in the rear, while the back doors open wide, so you shouldn’t have too many problems loading or unloading a child into a car seat.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Quality and finish

Thanks to a simplified dashboard, it certainly looks a bit more upmarket than before, but the buttons don’t operate with the same reassurance as you’ll find in cars like the Mazda 2 or Lexus CT.

At least the Titanium and Titanium X models have an air of quality, thanks to sections of leather, ambient lighting and dual-zone climate control. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Style Econetic looks positively downmarket. If you’re after a Focus that makes you feel special, choose the ST-Line or ST models.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Infotainment

The upgraded infotainment system was one of the most notable upgrades in the 2014 Ford Focus. Avoid the entry-level Style Econetic model, as other trim levels get an eight-inch Sync 3 touchscreen multimedia system with DAB digital radio, six speakers, sat-nav, voice control and emergency assistance. It’s not the most intuitive system on the market, but it’s a massive step up from what was fitted to earlier models.

Ignore the voice control, which is next-to-useless, and put aside any hopes of having Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This Focus is too old for such luxuries.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) value for money

Value for Money Rating
There are so many examples of the Ford Focus for sale, you could spend hours trying to find the right one.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Prices

At least that means you can afford to be picky, while honing your search to a specific engine or trim will reduce the amount of time you spend scrolling through the classifieds.

Prices start from around £5000. This is enough to secure a 2014 example with around 100,000 miles on the clock, but you’ll also find examples of the earlier Focus for the same price. It’s easy to spot the difference – just look at the front grille. Unless it’s a really good deal on an exceptional car, we’d recommend the later car over its predecessor.

The latest examples of the regular Focus should cost no more than £16,000. This is enough to secure a 2018 Focus in Titanium X trim and with up to 10,000 miles on the clock. You’ll benefit from the remainder of Ford’s three-year warranty.

If you’re after a Focus ST, most examples left the factory in ST-3 guise. You’ll pay between £9,000 and £22,000, and there are plenty to choose from. The ST-2 is worth slightly less (£8,000 to £20,000), while the ST-1 costs between £11,000 and £16,000). Look out for ST models with accident damage – these cars tend to be driven hard.

You’ll need to spend between £22,000 and £40,000 to secure a Focus RS, although some models, most notably the Heritage, command a huge premium. Bank on spending between £70,000 and £80,000 for this modern classic.

Ford Focus (2014 – 2018): Running Costs

There are many engines available, but while they offer good fuel economy on paper, the reality is likely to be very different. The official figures are based on the old NEDC testing standard, so you should take them with a pinch of salt. The Focus performs miserably in Real MPG.

The 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol is the worst offender, offering between 51.4mpg and 65.7mpg on paper. In reality, you’re more likely to see 32.6mpg to 41.6mpg. Still good for a petrol engine, but way down on the official figures. It’s worth noting that the automatic transmission robs the engine of power and economy. In 125PS guise, the difference is nearly 9mpg.

The 1.5-litre TDCi is the most efficient, offering between 50.8mpg and 57.1mpg, depending on the output and transmission. You’ll see 46.1mpg to 55.5mpg from the 1.6 TDCi, 45.4mpg to 48.0mpg from the 2.0 TDCi, and just 29.0mpg to 40.1mpg from the 1.5 Ecoboost petrol.

Another reason to opt for the 1.5 TDCi is free VED (road tax), and there’s a version of the 1.0 Ecoboost that’s exempt from VED. Avoid the old non-turbocharged engines and automatics.

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Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) models and specs

The Focus isn’t perfect, so you need to select your trim level and engine to get the best one. However, for driving appeal, value for money, low prices and choice, Ford’s popular family hatchback is hard to beat. Some rivals are more practical, others are more luxurious, but with the notable exception of the Mazda 3, none drive as well as the Focus.

Dimensions
Length 4358–4360 mm
Width 2010 mm
Height 1484 mm
Wheelbase 2640–2649 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1270–1700 kg
Boot Space 316–1215 L
Warranty 3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing 12500 miles
Costs
List Price £16,445–£31,680
Insurance Groups 10–26
Road Tax Bands A–F
Official MPG 44.8–83.1 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 5

On sale until April 2021

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
107KW Motor Auto 5dr £31,680 - 11.0 s

On sale until November 2018

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0T 100 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £21,540 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £23,540 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Zetec Edition EcoBoost 5dr £20,140 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 125 St-Line EcoBoost Auto 5dr £23,060 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 St-Line X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £24,460 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £22,040 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium EcoBoost Auto 5dr £23,310 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £24,040 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £25,310 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec Edition EcoBoost 5dr £20,640 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec Edition EcoBoost Auto 5dr £21,910 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 140 St-Line EcoBoost 5dr £21,810 57.7 mpg 10.4 s
1.0T 140 St-Line X EcoBoost 5dr £23,210 57.7 mpg 10.4 s
1.5 Tdci 120 St-Line X 5dr £23,890 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5 Tdci 120 St-Line X Powershift 5dr £25,140 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5L 182 St-Line X EcoBoost 5dr £24,435 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5L 182 St-Line X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £25,725 46.3 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 St-Line EcoBoost Auto 5dr £23,600 46.3 mpg 9.2 s
1.5T 150 St-Line Nav EcoBoost 5dr £21,805 51.4 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £22,560 51.4 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 Titanium EcoBoost Auto 5dr £23,720 46.3 mpg 9.2 s
1.5T 182 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £25,285 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5T 182 Titanium X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £26,445 46.3 mpg 8.9 s
1.5TDCi 105 Style ECOnetic 5dr £20,220 83.1 mpg 11.9 s
1.5TDCi 120 St-Line 5dr £22,490 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 St-Line Powershift 5dr £23,740 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium 5dr £22,740 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium Powershift 5dr £23,990 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium X 5dr £24,740 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £25,990 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec Edition 5dr £21,340 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec Edition Powershift 5dr £22,590 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 95 Zetec Edition 5dr £20,840 74.3 mpg 12.0 s
1.6 125 Titanium Nav Powershift 5dr £21,895 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
2.0 Tdci 150 St-Line X 5dr £25,250 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0 Tdci 150 St-Line X Powershift 5dr £26,540 64.2 mpg 8.7 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium 5dr £24,100 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium Powershift 5dr £25,390 64.2 mpg 8.7 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium X 5dr £26,100 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £27,390 64.2 mpg 8.7 s

On sale until December 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0T 125 St-Line Nav EcoBoost 5dr £21,285 60.1 mpg 11.0 s

On sale until May 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0T 100 Style EcoBoost 5dr £18,045 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Style EcoBoost 99g 5dr £18,395 65.7 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £20,845 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £22,845 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Zetec EcoBoost 5dr £19,095 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 100 Zetec Nav EcoBoost 5dr £19,395 61.4 mpg 12.5 s
1.0T 125 St-Line EcoBoost 5dr £20,845 60.1 mpg -
1.0T 125 St-Line EcoBoost Auto 5dr £22,095 51.4 mpg -
1.0T 125 Style EcoBoost Auto 5dr £19,795 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £21,345 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium EcoBoost Auto 5dr £22,595 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £23,345 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Titanium X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £24,595 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec EcoBoost 5dr £19,595 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec EcoBoost Auto 5dr £20,845 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec Nav EcoBoost 5dr £19,895 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec Nav EcoBoost Auto 5dr £21,145 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.5T 150 St-Line EcoBoost 5dr £21,345 51.4 mpg -
1.5T 150 St-Line EcoBoost Auto 5dr £22,725 46.3 mpg -
1.5T 150 Titanium EcoBoost 5dr £21,845 51.4 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 Titanium EcoBoost Auto 5dr £23,095 46.3 mpg 9.2 s
1.5T 182 Titanium X EcoBoost 5dr £24,570 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5T 182 Titanium X EcoBoost Auto 5dr £25,820 46.3 mpg 8.9 s
1.5TDCi 120 St-Line 5dr £21,545 74.3 mpg -
1.5TDCi 120 St-Line Powershift 5dr £22,795 74.3 mpg -
1.5TDCi 120 Style 5dr £19,245 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Style Powershift 5dr £20,495 67.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium 5dr £22,045 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium Powershift 5dr £23,295 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium X 5dr £24,045 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £25,295 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec 5dr £20,295 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec Nav 5dr £20,595 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec Nav Powershift 5dr £21,845 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec Powershift 5dr £21,545 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 95 Style 5dr £18,745 74.3 mpg 12.0 s
1.5TDCi 95 Zetec 5dr £19,795 74.3 mpg 12.0 s
1.5TDCi 95 Zetec Nav 5dr £20,095 74.3 mpg 12.0 s
1.6 105 Style 5dr £17,545 47.9 mpg 12.3 s
1.6 125 Style Powershift 5dr £19,095 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
1.6 125 Titanium Powershift 5dr £21,595 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
1.6 125 Zetec Nav Powershift 5dr £20,395 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
1.6 125 Zetec Powershift 5dr £20,095 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
1.6 85 Style 5dr £16,445 47.9 mpg 14.9 s
1.6TDCi 95 Style 5dr £18,195 67.3 mpg 12.5 s
2.0TDCi 150 St-Line Black Edition 5dr £23,835 70.6 mpg -
2.0TDCi 150 St-Line Red Edition 5dr £23,310 70.6 mpg -
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium 5dr £23,385 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium Powershift 5dr £24,635 64.2 mpg 8.7 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium X 5dr £25,385 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £26,635 64.2 mpg 8.7 s
2.0TDCi St-Line Nav Black Edition 5dr £24,135 70.6 mpg -
2.0TDCi St-Line Nav Red Edition 5dr £23,610 70.6 mpg -

On sale until April 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0T 125 Zetec S EcoBoost 5dr £20,595 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec S EcoBoost Auto 5dr £21,845 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec S Nav EcoBoost 5dr £20,895 60.1 mpg 11.0 s
1.0T 125 Zetec S Nav EcoBoost Auto 5dr £22,145 51.4 mpg 12.0 s
1.5T 150 Zetec S EcoBoost 5dr £21,095 51.4 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 Zetec S EcoBoost Powershift 5dr £22,475 46.3 mpg 9.2 s
1.5T 150 Zetec S Nav EcoBoost 5dr £21,395 51.4 mpg 8.9 s
1.5T 150 Zetec S Nav EcoBoost Powershift 5dr £22,775 46.3 mpg 9.2 s
1.5T 182 St-Line EcoBoost Black Edition 5dr £22,770 51.4 mpg -
1.5T 182 St-Line EcoBoost Red Edition 5dr £22,245 51.4 mpg -
1.5T 182 Zetec S EcoBoost Black Edition 5dr £22,770 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5T 182 Zetec S EcoBoost Red Edition 5dr £22,245 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5T St-Line Nav EcoBoost Black Edition 5dr £23,070 51.4 mpg -
1.5T St-Line Nav EcoBoost Red Edition 5dr £22,545 51.4 mpg -
1.5T Zetec S Nav EcoBoost Black Edition 5dr £23,070 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5T Zetec S Nav EcoBoost Red Edition 5dr £22,545 51.4 mpg 8.6 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec S 5dr £21,295 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec S Nav 5dr £21,595 74.3 mpg 10.5 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec S Nav Powershift 5dr £22,845 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.5TDCi 120 Zetec S Powershift 5dr £22,545 74.3 mpg 10.8 s
1.6 125 Zetec S Nav Powershift 5dr £21,645 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
1.6 125 Zetec S Powershift 5dr £21,345 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
2.0TDCi 150 Zetec S Black Edition 5dr £23,585 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi 150 Zetec S Red Edition 5dr £23,060 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi Zetec S Nav Black Edition 5dr £23,885 70.6 mpg 8.8 s
2.0TDCi Zetec S Nav Red Edition 5dr £23,360 70.6 mpg 8.8 s

On sale until October 2015

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Style 1.6 TDCi 95 S5 5dr £18,195 67.3 mpg 12.5 s
Titanium 1.6 125 S6 Powershift Auto 5dr £21,345 44.8 mpg 11.7 s
Titanium 1.6 TDCi 115 S5 5dr £21,195 67.3 mpg 10.8 s
Zetec 1.6 TDCi 115 S5 5dr £19,695 67.3 mpg 10.8 s
Zetec S 1.6 TDCi 115 5dr £20,945 67.3 mpg 10.8 s

Model History

March 2014

Revised Focus revealed

Among the changes were updated engines with improved fuel efficiency on many versions compared to the previous model thanks to new powertrain options.

The 2015 Focus was the first vehicle in Europe to offer the fuel efficient new 1.5-litre EcoBoost (150PS and 180PS) petrol engine. This came with 6-speed manual or 6-speed (6F35) torque converter automatic transmission.

The Focus was also offered equipped with a new 1.5-litre TDCi (95PS and 120PS) diesel engine with maula transmission or Powershift dual clutch automatic.

The Focus continud to be offered with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine (100PS and 125PS) that in 2013 was chosen by a third of Focus customers, and was named the 2012 and 2013 International Engine of the Year. There was also be a new version of the 99 g/km CO2 1.0-litre EcoBoost, the first non-hybrid petrol family car in Europe to offer sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions.

The 120PS 1.5-litre diesel DPS6 PowerShift automatic introduced in 2015 offered a 19 per cent improvement compared to the equivalent-powered current Focus. The new Focus equipped with the dry clutch Powershift transmission and 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that also will be introduced next year will offer a 17 per cent improvement over the equivalent powered engine it will replace. A 150PS 2.0-litre TDCi diesel model will show a 14 per cent improvement when specified with a manual gearbox.

The Focus Powershift and torque converterautomatics were also available with paddle-shift controls that enable drivers to control gear changes while keeping their hands on the steering wheel. Paddle-shift controls were available as an option with all automatic and PowerShift transmissions, both diesel and petrol.

Ford also has improved its popular Active City Stop collision avoidance system, which pre-charges the brakes and – if the driver still does not respond – reduces engine torque and automatically applies the brakes to reduce the impact of collisions. It has been enhanced to operate at speeds of up to 50 km/h, compared to 30 km/h with the current version.

September 2014

Revised Focus prices announced

Prices for the 2015 Ford Focus, in dealerships from November 2014, started from £13,995 - the same as the 2014 Focus, with top Titanium and Titanium X versions costing £100 less than the current equivalents.

The 2015 Focus range retains a six-series line-up of Studio (from £13,995), Style (£16,795), Zetec (£18,295), Zetec S (£20,045), Titanium (£19,795) and Titanium X (£21,795).

The 2015 Ford Focus builds on its reputation for technology, which since 2011 has featured automated parallel parking, Active City Stop low-speed collision avoidance, Traffic Sign Recognition to monitor and record road signs and Blind Spot Information System, as optional equipment.

The 2015 Focus was the first Ford to offer Perpendicular Parking, an additional hands-free parking technology to help drivers reverse into spaces alongside other vehicles. Today’s Ford Focus debuted Active Park Assist that, at the push of a button, uses ultrasonic sensors to locate parking spaces and steer the vehicle while the driver controls the accelerator and brake. The addition of new sensors to the rear enables Perpendicular Parking to operate in the same way.

June 2016

Focus ST-Line launched

Got a honeycomb design for the trapezoidal front grille, fog lamps with dark surrounds and a rear diffuser element along with a large rear roof spoiler.

Other styling extras include a black beltline beneath the windows, deep side-skirts and ST-Line exterior badging on the front wings plus unique 17-inch in alloy wheels in Rock Metallic Grey. Inside there are sport seats with red stitching and a perforated leather ST-style steering wheel with grey stitching along with an ST-style gear knob, a dark woven headliner and ST-Line scuff plates

The Focus ST-Line comes with the 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivering from 108g/km CO2 and 60.1mpg or there's the 150PS and 182PS versions of the 1.5-litre EcoBoost delivering from 127g/km CO 2 and 51.4mpg.

Ford’s 1.5-litre TDCi diesel produces 120PS delivering 99g/km CO 2 and 74.3mpg, or 2.0-litre TDCi with 150PS delivering from 105g/km CO 2 and 70.6mpg are available on the Focus ST-Line with six-speed manual and six-speed PowerShift automatic transmissions. The Focus ST-Line will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters when an automatic transmission is specified.

What to watch out for

03-05-2015:

Report that stop/start button of 2015 Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost Powershift will not stop the engine of the car.

08-05-2015:

Report of judder from drivetrain of 2014 Focus 1.6 Powershift automatic when running slowly, diagnosed as problem with clutch pack, to be repaired under warranty. Three weeks later, 80 year old owner told unable to supply parts to repair and no date given for when they will be available.

19-07-2015:

Complaint of new Focus 1.0 EcoBoost suffering intermittent power loss (turbo not working) and going into "limp home" mode. A warning light appears with a sign indicating "engine needing service." If car stopped and left for about an hour it returns to normal operation.

18-05-2016:

Due to problems with Powershift dry clutch packs, Ford has dropped the 6-speed dry clutch Powershift on Focus models. The Focus 1.5 TDCI 120PS, Focus 2.0 TDCI 150PS and Focus 1.6 petrol 125PS are available with 6-speed wet clutch Powershifts. While the Focus 1.0T EcoBoost 125PS and 1.5T EcoBoost 150PS come with conventional 6 speed torque converter automatics.

23-09-2016:

Report of clutch of 2015 Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost 'burning out' after 15 months and 12,000 kilometres.

10-10-2016:

Report of "clutch judder" from secondhand 2015 Focus Powershift at 3800 miles, eventially leading to loss of drive at 8000 miles. New dry clutch pack took four weeks to arrive.

08-02-2017:

Report of climate control problem with 2014 Ford Focus Mk3 Titanium X 1.0 EcoBoost 125 that has EATC (climate control). When EATC set to warmer temperature, say 20-24 degrees Celsius, and car is driven "sensibly" it constantly blows cold air, no matter what fan speed or vent setting is on. However, once the car is driven harder the heat starts coming into the cabin. As soon as it slows down, it resumes blowing cold air. (Might be something to do with the water cooling of the turbo. Maybe it has been bypassed.)

10-04-2017:

Report of three successive failures of TPMS valves on the wheels of a 2014 Ford Focus due to mixed metal corrosion.

19-04-2017:

Report from owner of 2014 Ford Focus that had two replacement dual mass flywheels paid for by Ford and one clutch paid for by Ford. Owner to Ford to Small Claims over the £550 cost of the 2nd clutch and was awarded 65%.

02-05-2017:

Report of manual gearbox of 2014 Ford Focus 1.5 TDCI completely seizing at 32,000 miles. Must be covered by warranty.

31-07-2017:

Report of Powershift transmission of 2015 Ford Focus failing to respond for up to five seconds on occasions after cruising to an almost standstill and then accellerating.

10-08-2017:

Report of clutch failure at 16,500 miles on 20 month old Ford Focus 1.0T Ecoboost bought new in 2015.

12-08-2017:

Report of clutches of Ford Focus Powershift slipping at 20,000 miles.

14-08-2017:

Report of judder from drivetrain of recently purchased used 2014 Ford Focus 1.6 Powershift.

22-08-2017:

Report of 2015 Ford Focus Powershift needing its second clutch pack replacement in two years due to judder. Reader says " Software update and replacement clutch worked great first time, for about 9 months, then same problem started again."

30-08-2017:

Report of clutch and dual mass flywheel of Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost, new in September 2015, burning out and being replaced in November 2016.

04-09-2017:

Yet another report of clutch failure, this time on a 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium at 22,000 miles, 6 weeks out of 3 year warranty.

05-09-2017:

Further report of clutch failure on a 2014 Focus 1.0 EcoBoost at 24,000 miles.

07-09-2017:

Report of 6-speed transmission of 2014 Ford Focus 2.0TDI Titanium failing at 3 years 4 months old and 33,000 miles. Ford offered to replace it for £1112.

27-10-2017:

Report of clutch failure on 2016 Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost at 17,000 miles and the Ford dealer is trying to charge the owner for it.

30-10-2017:

Report of rear door lock of 2015 Ford Focus failing to latch when car has been parked in the sun. Works when car is moved to the shade.

03-11-2017:

Report of failure of crankshaft timing belt pulley on 21,000 mile independently serviced 2014 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi 115 Start/Stop Titanium Navigator 5dr Estate Manual.

06-12-2017:

Report of 2014 Ford Focus 1.6 EcoBoost occasionally running at 4000 rpm by itself. Suggests a high pressure fuel pump problem and engine emissions system increasing revs to admit enough air to burn the fuel completely.

10-12-2017:

Report of clutch judder on 2015 Ford Focus 1.6 Powershift, replaced early in 2017. Now starting to judder again. From cold there is no problem but once the vehicle has run for 20 minutes or so it is evident but nowhere near as severe as last year. It was recently serviced but they found nothing wrong.

18-01-2018:

Report of " really annoying knocking noise from the clutch" of a 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost at 30,000 miles. "Noise comes and goes, guessing it's the clutch release bearings."

08-02-2018:

Report of clutch failure on 2014 Ford Focus at 16,000 miles. C ar was recalled for clutch adjustment in December 2018 but Ford will not consider any compensation for the failure.

16-02-2018:

Report of cylinder head gasket failure on 2014 Ford Focus 1.6 Ti-VCT 125 Powershift Auto Titanium Navigator Estate.

20-06-2018:

Report of problems with gearchange of 2014 Ford Focus Powershift transmission at 24,700 miles. Owner told transmission control module was faulty and it was a manufacturing issue so covered under warranty and replaced at no cost.

30-07-2018:

Report of 6-speed Powershift transmission of 2014 Ford Focus needing a new clutch pack at 9,000 miles at a price of £1100.

30-07-2018:

Report from reader of purchasing a 6,800 mile 2014 Ford Focus Navigator in October 2017. Car now at 10,800 miles. Overheating problem due to loss of coolant led to crack in engine block. Car has full dealer service history. Has been quoted £4700 to repair.

20-08-2018:

Report of bang and vibration from 6-speed wet clutch Powershift transmission of 2014/64 Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI. The vibration happened again intermittently when in ‘Sport’ mode when slowing down, as if the gearbox was struggling to change gear.

29-08-2018:

Report of DPF regen problems with Focus 1.5 TDCI recently purchased used from a Ford dealer.

09-09-2018:

Report of juddering from automatic transmission (Powershift dry clutch pack) of 2014 Ford Focus at 47,000 miles.

23-09-2018:

Report that electric radiator fan of 2017 Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost keeps going, often for 5 minutes or more after switching off the engine. Suggested idling for a minute to keep oil and coolant circulating and take heat out of the turbo.

28-09-2018:

Report of intermittent fault with instrument cluster of 2014 Ford Focus Edge estate whereby the clocks and dials, etc. will shut off and suddenly come back on, re-setting the trip an av mpg. etc. This seems to be getting worse and most recently it shut off for a few minutes.

31-10-2018:

Report of radio stopping working in 2014 Ford Focus estate at 23,000 miles. Satnav works but with no sound. No sound from CD player, Bluetooth or reversiing sensors. Ford dealer says repair will cost £960, including £120 diagnostic check

07-11-2018:

Report of 2013 Ford Focus EcoBoost losing its coolant and engine subsequently failing to start.

30-11-2018:

Report of clutch pack failure on 2015 Ford Focus 1.6 Powershift at under 11,000 miles.

02-12-2018:

Report in Ask of 2015 Ford Focus spontaneoulsy combusting on a motorway.

17-12-2018:

Report of judder when accelerating in 1st and 2nd gear in 2015 Ford Focus Titanium 1.6 petrol automatic that reader was thinking of buying.

08-01-2019:

Report of Ford Focus Titanium X Powershift juddering on takeoff from standstill and while driving at low speed.

08-01-2019:

Report of driveshaft seal leak and both rear dampers leaking fluid on 2015/65 Ford Focus.

24-01-2019:

Report of clutch burning out on Ford Focus Titanium Navigator in June 2018. Clutch, dual mass flywheel and clutch slave cylinder burned out at 28,797 miles. Cost to repair was £1,222.95. In November 2018 owner received the recall notice for the clutch fault, but is having difficulty claiming a refund.

06-02-2019:

Report of clutch failure of Ford Focus Titanium Navigator 1.0 Ecoboost in July 2016 at 20,903 miles. Then clutch and dual mass flywheel failed again on 11th January 2019 at 45,257 miles.

26-02-2019:

Report of two failed clutches and dual mass flywheels in a 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost. Clutch and DMF first replaced in July 2016 at 20,903 miles. Replaced for the second time in January 2019 at 45,257 miles at a (discounted) cost of £900.

16-04-2019:

Report of juddering Powershift automatic transmission in 2015 Ford Focus. Started juddering while it was still under warranty. Owner took it to Ford dealer twice and they reprogrammed the computer but the problem continued.

30-04-2019:

Report of clutch pack of Focus Powershift transmission failing, being replaced, then the replacement failing with a harsh judder when pulling away fast from a standing start like at cross road or lights.

01-05-2019:

Report of instrument cluster illumination switching off when headlights are switched on in 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost.

07-06-2019:

Report of juddering from transmission of "recently purchased" 2016 Ford Focus 1.6 Titanium Powershift..

09-08-2019:

Report of a/c condensers failing on two separate 2015 Ford Focus models.

26-08-2019:

Report of engine failure of February 2018 Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost automatic estate. Began after 30 minutes fast driving on the A38 with seemingly some engine "flutter". After turning off onto a B road it started to vibrate badly when idling, then all the time, and within 10 minutes pulled over and engine had no power at all.

11-10-2019:

Report of no 1 piston failure in December 2015 Ford Focus EcoBoost at 22,000 miles. Replacement engine required, for which Ford will pay most of the cost, asking £800 from the owner for the 22,000 miles the engine had already completed.

02-11-2019:

Report of problems with Powershift transmission of 33k mile 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost 125. Vehicle inspection result is showing fault as PO7A5 Transmission Friction Element #B Stuck on (clutch pack). Quoted £1,200 + VAT to repair.

02-11-2019:

Reader reported waiting 10 weeks and still waiting for a new engine to replace the failed 1.5 EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine in his Focus.

05-01-2020:

Series of catastophes reported with 2014 Ford Focus 1.0 T EcoBoost 125 Start/Stop Titanium Navigator. Recalled under turbo degas pipe TSB in January 2019. 2 weeks later engine malfunction error and car went into limp mode with fault codes relating to fuel pressure but also a short to ground message. The codes were cleared to allow owner to get home but when he turned ignition off the engine kept running. Could only stop it by stalling the engine. Problem went away but kept coming back. Then in May 2019 the Body Control Module was replaced. Then in December 2019 same problem occurred: engine malfunction error, fuel pressure error codes and short to ground error. Garage found BCM Fault and required replacement due to water ingress. Then found wiring harness faulty due to water ingress causing a short. The BCM replacement cost £320 but now owner is told that due to the labout involved the wiring harness work will cost £2,300.

17-01-2020:

Report of failure of Powershift transmission of late 2016 Ford Focua 1.5 TDCI at 85k miles. Estimate to replace: £5000.

What does the Ford Focus (2014 – 2018) cost?