Ford Focus (1998-2005) Review

Running Costs

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According to surveys carried out by fleet management companies, Focus servicing costs are below average. The sheer number of them that get serviced and affordable parts account for that, as does the fact that the Focus should prove largely reliable. Insurance costs are typical for the class, while most of Focus engines are quite economical. Resale values are average, but no match for a Volkswagen Golf. There are so many used Focuses and Ford dealers around that finding a used example in the specification you want should prove an absolute doddle. To make sure it can be easily sold-on afterwards, we'd recommend the 1.6 petrol or 1.8 TDCi, ideally in five-door hatch form; the saloon will not be particularly sought after. Because the Focus isn't as well-specified as some of its rivals, it's worth hunting out one with a CD player, air conditioning and ABS. In some reliability surveys the Focus has scored extremely well, so it should provide durable, lengthy service. The Focus is quite well priced against its opposition, and is a very good car to boot. Early models only had a one-year warranty, but that has been extended to three-years or 60,000 miles. In terms of equipment, however, the Focus these days is a bit lacking. Air conditioning and a CD player are standard on many of its rivals, as are anti-lock brakes and side airbags, so the Focus falls short here.