The 2017 Ford Focus is a compact car that’s available in hatchback and sedan styles. With three trims that are priced under $20,000, this vehicle is well known for its affordability. By spending just over $23,000, you’ll get plenty of premium amenities included in some of the trims, such as the Titanium Hatch.
Under the hood, the Focus offers three turbocharged engines that are based on the EcoBoost technology. The Ti-VCT engine is the fourth powertrain option for this versatile car. If you’re a green driver, then select the electric powertrain that includes a motor and lithium-ion battery pack. Some high-performance installations in the Focus include the AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control, Powershift automatic transmission, and Torque Vectoring.
Sleek and aggressive, the Focus is available in awesome paint options, including Kona Blue, Race Red, and Ruby Red. Chrome covers the car’s lamp bezels, door handles, and beltline moldings. The SecuriCode keyless entry keypad and Easy Fuel Capless Fuel Filler are some patented exterior features that are installed on this Ford.
Performance Specs
The 2.0 L Ti-VCT engine in the Ford Focus produces up to 160 horsepower at 6,500 RPM, and 146 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 RPM. Running on the Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, this four-cylinder engine is available with a Flex Fuel certification in states that comply with PZEV standards. Also following the Ti-VCT mechanism, the 1.0 L EcoBoost engine is rated at 123hp and 125lb-ft of torque. This I-3 engine has a small turbocharger that delivers such an impressive output. With an upgrade to the 2.0 L EcoBoost engine, you can enjoy up to 270hp and 252lb-ft of torque. Installed only in the RS Hatch model, the 2.3 L EcoBoost engine increases the net output to 350hp and 350lb-ft of torque.
Shifting gears in the Ford Focus should be simple when you have the Powershift automatic transmission system, which includes six gear speeds and the SelectShift technology. You may also choose a six-speed manual transmission system for select models, including the RS Hatch. A five-speed manual transmission is standard in the S Sedan.
The Torque Vectoring feature helps the Ford Focus navigate curves and execute other swift moves on the road. This technology lowers the potential for slipping or skidding of the wheels. Similarly, the AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control improves handling in challenging situations. You also get good leverage from the Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) that’s dynamic enough to compensate for unintentional drifting and swerving.
Fuel Efficiency
According to EPA estimates, the 2.0 L Ti-VCT engine offers up to 40 MPG on the highway and 30 MPG in the city. A full 12.4-liter fuel tank guarantees a driving range of about 500 miles. The 2.0 L EcoBoost engine is rated at 30 MPG on the highway and 22 MPG in the city. With the 2.3 L EcoBoost engine, you get a fuel economy of 25 MPG on the highway and 19 MPG in urban areas. This powerful engine is paired with a 13.9-gallon fuel tank that supports a driving range of approximately 350 miles.
If you’re looking for even better efficiency in the Ford Focus, then the Electric Hatch is the ideal choice. This model is driven by a permanent magnet electric motor that’s rated at 107 kW. Capable of generating up to 33.5 kWh, a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is also integrated into the car’s powertrain. The Electric Hatch gets 118 MPGe in the city and 96 MPGe on the highway. It takes just under six hours to completely charge this vehicle via a cord that’s compatible with 240-volt power outlets. Additionally, a 30-minute DC charge should be enough to power the Focus Electric Hatch for 75 miles.
Entertainment Technology
An 8-inch LCD touch screen is available in the Ford Focus. You can easily swipe this high-resolution monitor that shows menus on the SYNC 3 platform. A pinch-to-zoom functionality makes it easy to navigate the software. A built-in GPS navigation system includes 3-D renderings and traditional 2-D maps.
With live feeds from SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, you’ll find a way to avoid traffic congestion and inclement weather. SiriusXM Satellite Radio music service is also included in this compact Ford. You could turn up the volume in the 10-speaker Sony sound system to enjoy your favorite hits on this premium radio. HD Radio and AM/FM channels are included in this high-end audio system.
Featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the SYNC 3 suite makes it easy to access your favorite smartphone applications on the road. Of course, it’s possible to use wireless Bluetooth to link other types of mobile phones with the infotainment system. Two smart-charging USB ports provide convenient ways to quickly charge most gadgets. If you’re interested in remotely monitoring and managing the Focus, then download the MyFord app. This feature even helps you find charging stations for the Electric Hatch model.
Safety Features
The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) in the Ford Focus significantly decreases the risk of a lateral collision. With some help from the Lane-Keeping System, you’re unlikely to get into a crash during a lane change. If necessary, this technology will adjust the steering system and brakes in order to bring the car back into a given lane.
Thanks to the Reverse Sensing System and Cross Traffic Alert, rear collisions are also minimized. Both features are activated when the vehicle begins moving in reverse. Additionally, a rear-view camera sends live videos to the SYNC 3 screen. Using sensors to scan for any stationary obstacles within several feet, the Active Park Assist is another reliable driving aide in this Ford.
The Focus also has the following passive safety and security features:
- Safety Canopy System
- Belt-Minder
- Personal Safety System
- SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System
- Perimeter alarm
How It Stacks up against the Competition
As an American hatchback with a sporty and economical design, the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze competes well against the Ford Focus. This Chevy offers the turbocharged 1.4 L ECOTEC engine and 1.8 L ECOTEC engine. However, the EcoBoost engines are a lot more powerful than the ECOTEC engines. Featuring 4G LTE Wi-Fi by OnStar, the Cruze surely beats the Focus when it comes to internet connectivity on the go. Part of the Driver Confidence Package, the Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning are truly impressive safety features in the affordable Cruze.
The 2017 Hyundai Veloster is another solid competitor for the Ford Focus. This Hyundai is available with a turbo engine that yields just over 200hp and 195lb-ft of peak torque. The Torque Vectoring Control and seven-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission System offer superb handling on any paved road. You might also appreciate the B&M Racing Sport Shifter and upshift indicator for the manual transmission system. The Veloster Turbo models surely have a slight edge in performance over a few of the Focus trims.
Pros:
- 10 unique trim models
- Efficient electric edition available
- Four engine options
- SYNC 3 infotainment system with many applications
Cons:
- Sporty RS Hatch trim is pricey
- 30 hours to charge electric model with 120-v cord
- Manual front seats in select trims
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