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Ford Focus models explained

All of the Ford Focus models explained to help you make sense of which model is right for you

Ford Focus Estate next to Ford Focus hatchback

Full Ford Focus model lineup

Few manufacturers have offered as many options as you get with Ford Focus models.

The sheer choice right from budget-friendly to high-performance really does allow every driver to pick the perfect Ford Focus for them.

Although Ford has decided to pull the Focus off sale to make room for new electric models, we think a used Ford Focus for sale still makes for a very good purchase.

Ford Focus model list

Since first launching in the 1990s, the Ford Focus has been through several iterations until it became the car we know and love, with the final version being the fourth generation.

It’s primarily a hatchback, but you can also get an estate version if you need even more boot space. Engine and trim level options also make endless configurations available.

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Ford Focus Hatchback

Blue Ford Focus ST-Line driving over bridge

While some rivals have more boot space (like the Peugeot 308), the Ford Focus hatchback has a perfect balance between luggage space and rear-seat legroom – think of it as the best of both worlds.

Its short wheelbase and excellent engineering make it a real joy to drive, with sharp steering and a well-tuned chassis that feels sporty without being uncomfortable.

Boot size:

  • 375 litres (seats up)

  • 1,354 litres (rear seats down)

Ford Focus Estate

Ford Focus Estate

Active families with dogs or frankly anybody who regularly carries lots in the boot should upgrade to the Focus Estate, because its boot is more than 50% bigger even when you’re carrying five passengers.

The best part is, it drives as well as the hatchback and its efficient engines never miss a beat despite the added weight and size.

Boot size:

  • 575 litres (seats up)

  • 1,650 litres (rear seats down)

Ford Focus trim levels

Ford Focus interior

Don’t be discouraged at the number of trim levels there are, because when we explain Ford’s strategy, it’s far easier to work out which is which.

The base models start off with Style and the upgraded Zetec, before Ford goes off in one of three directions: luxury, sporty or rugged and off-roady.

Titanium, Titanium X and Vignale have the luxury part covered, with ST-Line and ST-Line X covering the sporty side. The ST model is the performance hot hatch that these ST-Line variants are based off.

Active and Active X have a raised ride height and some plastic body parts to give it its SUV vibe.

During its time on sale, Ford sometimes used ‘Edition’ after these names, but it doesn’t change things drastically.

You may also see ‘Vignale’ being used on existing trim levels, like Active Vignale and ST-Line Vignale. It’s just Ford’s way of saying they’ve crammed in as much equipment as possible.

Ford Focus Style

Entry-level model with basic radio, manual air-con, alloy wheels and an electric parking brake.

Ford Focus Zetec

Worthwhile upgrade, adding a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control and a heated windscreen.

Ford Focus Titanium

Very popular model with auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control.

Ford Focus Titanium X

A few added extras, like part-leather upholstery and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.

Ford Focus Vignale

Top-spec model with LED headlights, reversing camera, full leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, head-up display and self-parking.

Ford Focus Active

This model adds a 30mm raised ride height, dark plastic cladding and black roof rails, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control.

Ford Focus Active X

The ‘X’ upgrade adds a panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats and more.

Ford Focus ST-Line

Smarter exterior design with a dark headliner and metal pedals inside, with keyless start and everything else Zetec models gets.

Ford Focus ST-Line X

The auto wipers, front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats and tinted windows make it an upgrade we’d recommend.

Ford Focus ST

ST isn’t just about looks, it’s about performance. You get an electronic limited slip differential (LSD), Recaro sports seats and driver aids like adaptive cruise control.

Ford Focus engine options

Ford Focus ST engine

Ford keeps it simple with petrol and diesel engine options, but in its later years, mild hybrid tech was added to the petrol cars to create a minor power boost and efficiency gains.

Petrol

Buyers love Ford’s EcoBoost engines, the name it gives to its turbocharged petrol cars. The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine is perfect for most, but you can get a bigger 1.5-litre too.

Buy a used Ford Focus petrol for sale.

  • 1.0 EcoBoost 85hp

  • 1.0 EcoBoost 100hp

  • 1.0 EcoBoost 125hp

  • 1.0 EcoBoost mHEV 125hp

  • 1.5 EcoBoost 150hp

  • 1.0 EcoBoost mHEV 155hp

  • 1.5 EcoBoost 182hp

  • 2.3 EcoBoost 280hp (ST)

Diesel

These are some of the most efficient diesels in any hatchback, but they were ultimately phased out with reduced demand and the huge improvements that had been made to petrol engine efficiency over the years.

Buy a used Ford Focus diesel for sale.

  • 1.5 EcoBlue 95hp

  • 1.5 EcoBlue 115hp

  • 1.5 EcoBlue 120hp

  • 2.0 EcoBlue 150hp

  • 2.0 EcoBlue 190hp (ST)

What’s the best Focus model?

Ford Focus ST driving

On a budget? Skip Style and go for the widely-available Zetec model for not much more – your future self will thank you.

Doing long commutes? Titanium X models are comfy, quiet and well-equipped, but it’s your choice if you’re pro-diesel (with its very high MPG figures) or prefer a mild hybrid petrol.

Need practicality? It’s got to be the Focus Estate, and Active variants are even easier to load the boot with their raised ride height.

After performance? Well of course, it’s the ST. Diesel models are nippy, but the 280hp petrol is where it’s at.

Craving luxury? It doesn’t get better than the Vignale, and a 155hp mild hybrid will give some effortless pace to the car.

Explore used Ford Focus cars for sale

There’s a reason the Ford Focus is a household name, and has spent time in the charts as the UK’s best-selling new and used car over the years. The formula has been refined into a car that makes total sense for so many drivers.

If you’ve decided on which version to go for, see if we have a used Ford Focus for sale that suits you.

Time to upgrade to a newer model? Get a free part-ex quote

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