The Ford Focus has been a fixture of British roads in the 2000s. We take you through the Focus model years and types, so you can choose the best version for you.
Until Ford realised that it could sell you the Puma or Kuga for more profit than the Focus and Fiesta, the brand’s famous hatchbacks were an integral part of the makeup of the UK car scene.
The Focus was long one of the best-selling cars in this country, and it’s clear to see why. It’s practical enough to be used as a family car, yet it’s small enough to be easy to park and economical. And great to drive – the Focus has always felt like an eager and willing daily driver. There are many different trim levels and versions, meaning there’s going to be something to suit you.
Read our Ford Focus review or shop used Ford Focus cars for sale.
Types of Ford Focus
Most Ford Focus cars are conventional five-door hatchbacks, which have been a staple of motoring for decades.
Ford has played around with the formula in the Focus’ lifespan, and introduced new body styles wearing the Focus name – previous models included hardtop convertibles and MPVs, as the Ford C-Max originally bore the Focus nameplate.
A roomy estate model has been a constant throughout the Focus’ time on sale, and it’s nearly always been available with a fast ST model, too.
Ford Focus trim levels
- Trend – an affordable model that replaced Zetec trim, with features including a heated windscreen and a touchscreen with phone mirroring
- Titanium – a previously high-spec model that’s now the cheapest new Focus model. Comes with alloy wheels and Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment software
- ST-Line – sporty styling with a similar level of kit to Titanium
- Titanium X – classy model with lots of extra equipment, such as digital dials, some leather upholstery and premium audio
- ST-Line X – desirable model that blends the sporty styling and the extra luxuries
- Active – a crossover-styled model with a little extra ride height. No four-wheel-drive option
- Active X – as above, but with extra equipment in line with ST-Line X and Titanium X
- Vignale – a luxurious trim level to try and tempt you away from the Mercedes A-Class. Comes with lots of leather, lots of equipment and an attempt at wood trim. When new, Ford even offered free car washes and a ‘Vignale Lounge’ in the dealership to Vignale customers
- Titanium Vignale – latterly, Vignale became an option pack rather than a trim level in its own right, so this trim adds some of the features from Vignale onto the restrained Titanium model
- ST-Line Vignale – basically the replacement for ST-Line X, with extra sporty features as well as the upgraded upholstery and sound system from Titanium Vignale
- Active Vignale – like Active X, this combines crossover styling with extra equipment
- ST – Ford’s fast Focus range-topper, with a powerful petrol engine, exclusive chassis upgrades and sporty styling
If that’s not enough, Ford went through a period of putting ‘Edition’ after all the trim level names, so also check out the Active Edition, Active X Edition, ST-Line Edition, ST-Line X Edition, Titanium Edition and Vignale Edition.
Ford Focus generations
Mk4 – 2018-present
- Current-shape model, which is the best Focus yet
- Model code: C519
- Facelifted in 2022
- Available as five-door hatchback and estate
- Introduced mild-hybrid technology to the Focus range
- Much improved practicality
Mk3 – 2011-2018
- You’ll still find some of these great-value Focus models for sale at Motorpoint
- Model code: C346
- Facelifted in 2015
- Best-selling car globally in 2012
- First Focus with Isofix points
- Available as five-door hatchback and estate
- Focus Electric model also offered briefly in the UK
Mk2 – 2004-2011
- Cheap and still widely available, with a strong parts supply
- Mode code: C307
- Facelifted in 2008
- First Focus with Bluetooth
- Available as three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback, estate and even hardtop convertible
Mk1 – 1998-2004
- Iconic Mk1 Focus is cheap, reliable and becoming a classic
- Model code: C170
- Facelifted in 2001
- Praised for its excellent handling
- Available as three-door or five-door hatchback, plus estate and saloon
- Was almost called the Escort
What is the fastest Ford Focus model?
The Ford Focus has always been known for its fast models, some of which have become legendary in hot hatch circles.
The Mk1 Focus ST produced 170hp, while the latest Focus ST offers a whopping 280hp and sprints from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds.
ST models have also been available with diesel engines until 2022, which offer a blend of performance and long-distance fuel economy.
There’s no Focus RS this time around, but older models offer top-rung performance. The Mk3 Focus RS is the most powerful and fastest Focus ever, with 350hp, four-wheel drive and a 0-62mph sprint of 4.7 seconds. But it also included the first application of a ‘Drift Mode’ – nowadays something that any self-respecting supercar wouldn’t be without.
What is the best Ford Focus model?
The best Ford Focus model is the latest one, produced from 2018 – largely by fixing the worst bits of its predecessor. The latest Focus is very practical, with class-leading legroom and a boot that’s 60 litres bigger than the Mk3’s. It consolidated a button-heavy interior into something more modern and intuitive, and a wider choice of trim levels should mean there’s a Focus for everyone. Importantly, the Focus retains the fun handling and nippy engines that it’s become known for.
Read our Ford Focus review or shop used Ford Focus cars for sale.
