All about Ford Focus History: Features, Generations and More

Ford is one of the most prominent auto manufacturers across the globe. The brand has put forward models that are known for their reliability, design and cutting-edge technology. Among these models, a car named Focus in the compact segment also enjoys an iconic status. That said, Ford Focus is known for its all-rounder capabilities, whether its style or comfort.

We have gathered the highlights of the Ford Focus’s history which show its evolution through the years. These details will reason for its popularity as one of the best-selling cars by Ford.

FORD FOCUS GENERATIONS

Ford Focus is among the top models in Ford’s history that have cemented its reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality and reliable cars. Let’s go through the details of the Ford Focus generations. They will depict how it has become one of the most used hatchbacks in the UAE.

FORD FOCUS FIRST GENERATION (1998-2004)

initial ford focus years — The first Ford model was a five-door hatchback and proved to be a strong contender in the compact segment

The first Ford Focus model was launched at the Geneva Motor Show. It was a five-door model and a strong contender in the compact car segment.

The 5-door hatchback adorned a triangular-shaped front fascia. The curved lines on the front were met by sharp angles, depicting Ford’s new-edge design philosophy. A sloped tailgate and an arched roofline added to the car’s appearance. Moreover, the taillights were set in D-pillars to prevent dents. The hatchback housed a wheelbase of 103 inches.

The interior offered ample seating space and comfort. Besides, the dashboard was set in the new-edge design where the instrument cluster merged with the other elements in curved lines.

The first Ford Focus model was powered by a wide range of engines paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The lineup included the following:

A 1.4i engine producing 75 horsepower
A 1.6i engine generating 101 horsepower
A 1.8i engine generating 116 horsepower
A 2.0i engine producing 130 horsepower

FORD FOCUS FIRST GENERATION FACELIFT (2001)

ford focus different models of 2001 version — The Focus look was refreshed for the 2001 model

Ford refreshed the Focus model in 2001. The exterior was modified with new car headlights for better visibility at night. Also, the headlights had turn signals fitted in them, instead of their former position at bumpers. A broader car grille was introduced to improve the vehicle’s cooling capability.

The interior was kept the same, although the quality of the material was improved. The car’s hood consisted of a key-only opening mechanism.

FORD FOCUS SECOND GENERATION (2004-2011)

The second generation in the Ford Focus history was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. The car shared a platform with other successful models such as Mazda 3 and Volvo S3. The model was available in different trim levels with Ghia as the most luxurious version.

The front fascia had a triangular shape with smaller headlights. A V-shaped hood was connected to the wider front grille and raked A-pillars. The rear doors consisted of a third window that provided an enhanced three-quarter rear visibility. This version of the five-door model housed an extended wheelbase and an increased overall length.

The interior was further made comfortable with the modification of the safety cell. It helped in improving the safety and crash-test results of the vehicle.

The following engines powered the second generation of the Ford Focus:

A 1.4-litre engine producing 80 horsepower
A 1.6-litre engine generating 101 horsepower
A 1.6-litre engine generating 114 horsepower
A 2.0-litre engine producing 148 horsepower

The above-mentioned engines were mated with a five-speed manual gearbox.

FORD FOCUS SECOND GENERATION ST VERSION (2005-2008)

ST version has been an important model in the history of ford focus — An ST version of the Focus was also launched in 2004

An ST 5-door version in the history of Ford Focus was also introduced in 2004. The model depicted the brand’s street-performance capability and emerged as a strong contender. The car was available as a three-door and five-door version.

The exterior featured an upgraded front bumper and a wider car grille. The side scoops with silver rims and a particular radiator grille made the ST version distinct from the previous models. Additionally, 18-inch light alloy wheels were used to improve car handling. The rear of the car housed a liftgate with a small roof spoiler.

The ST version featured high-bolstered car seats for maximum comfort. Also, three-dial clusters were added to the top of the dashboard to notify the oil temperature, boost and oil pressure.

The first ST-version in the Ford Focus history drew power from a 2.5 20v turbo engine. It produced a power of 225 horsepower and was paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

The ST version was refreshed and presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007. The engine lineup remained the same, however, modifications were made to the interior and exterior of the car.

The car housed a sporty look with flared arches and a trapezoidal front grille with a thick slat. A diffuser with two exhausts was mounted under the bumper. The interior was upgraded with dual-tone Recaro sport-bucket seats and a high-bolstering layout.

FORD FOCUS THIRD GENERATION (2011-2018)

third generation of Ford Focus — The third generation was launched in three body types

The third generation of the Ford Focus debuted at the North American Motor Show in 2011. It was launched as a sedan, station wagon and hatchback version. The first-time addition of FWD in the Ford Focus history added to the car’s road handling.

The new Ford Focus model had an aerodynamic look with a hexagonal front grille. The headlights were refined to a new look and the taillights featured a new design. Also, inches were added to the upper and lower dimensions.

The interior featured a new cockpit. A 4-inch infotainment system unit and an optional 8-inch touchscreen were available. The infotainment system also had Bluetooth and Ford SYNC connectivity with navigation and a voice-control package.

The new Focus models were powered by a series of engines. These engines were mated with a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. They included the following:

A 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine producing 150 to 180 horsepower
A 1.6-litre TiVC engine producing 105-125 horsepower
A 2.0-litre Ti-VCT I4 engine generating 160 horsepower. It came paired with a five-speed manual transmission.

FORD FOCUS THIRD GENERATION FACELIFT (2014)

third generation saw the best years of ford focus — Ford Focus became one of the top-selling models by the brand

The third-generation Ford Focus model received a facelift in 2014. During this time, Focus had catapulted its sales across the globe and had become a solid nameplate. This version was offered in three car body types: sedan, hatchback and station wagon.

The hatchback version was the most popular body type due to its practicality. The headlights and tail lights were modified, adding to the car’s appearance. The front grille was also redesigned to enhance the car’s appearance.

The interior consisted of an 8-inch touchscreen on the centre stack. The standard trim level was equipped with a 4.2-inch display screen. An electric power steering system enhanced the driving experience. Also, the sedan version came equipped with a backup camera.

The hatchback version featured comprehensive options for engines. They were as

A 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that generated power ranging from 100-125 hp. It was mated with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
A 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine that produced power ranging from 150-182 hp. It was mated with a six-speed manual transmission.
A 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine that produced power ranging from 105-125 hp. It was mated with a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission.

FORD FOCUS FOURTH GENERATION (2018-PRESENT)

current ford focus models — The current generation houses an aerodynamic look with cutting-edge technology

Launched as a global car in 1998, the Ford Focus is now in its fourth and current generation.

The exterior appearance of the Focus is distinguished by a taller front grille. The LED headlights and the repositioning of the Ford logo have enhanced the car’s look. Also, daytime running lamps, a sloped tailgate, a roof spoiler and quarter panels have been added to the five-door hatchback.

The new Ford Focus model features a SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment system offers various options such as voice commands, climate control and a navigation system.

The current Focus generation is powered by a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. It can generate power ranging from 100-125 hp. The car also has lower carbon emissions due to a 48-volt architecture. The turbo lag is further reduced by a belt-driver integrated starter generator.

This is all on the Ford Focus history. From excellent road handling to comfort, the Focus ticks all the boxes. These core features make the car one of the best-selling models of Ford. If you also wish to avail these features, you can sift through these used Ford Focus for sale in the UAE. However, if you also wish to add any other Ford model to your collection, browse through these used Ford cars for sale in the UAE.

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