Ford Focus 2024 review
Hatchback Petrol
Photo: Corvettec6r (CC BY 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Ford Focus has been a British road staple for more than twenty years, and the 2024 car sticks to the successful formula: engaging handling, reasonable costs and a spacious interior. The facelifted fourth generation uses a 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost mild-hybrid petrol that balances town and motorway duties.
UK price from: £26,495
Specifications
| Engine | 1.0L EcoBoost mild-hybrid petrol |
| Power | 125 PS (92 kW) |
| 0-62 mph | 10.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 124 mph |
| Fuel economy | 54.3 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 124 g/km |
| Boot space | 392 litres |
| Length | 4,378 mm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen
- Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
- Heated seats and steering wheel
- Adaptive cruise with lane centring
- Rear camera plus parking sensors
- Keyless entry and start
- LED headlights auto high beam
- Dual-zone climate
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £44.99 | OEM quality; fits 2019-2024 Focus Mk4, front axle |
| Oil filter | £9.49 | Spin-on type for 1.0 EcoBoost engines |
| Cabin pollen filter | £16.99 | Activated carbon; replace every 2 years |
| Timing belt kit | £139.99 | Belt, tensioner and pulleys; due at 10 years or 150,000 miles |
| Front shock absorber | £89.99 | Single unit; fits standard suspension models |
| Headlamp bulb (H7, pair) | £12.99 | For halogen headlamp models |
Pros
- Best-in-class steering and handling
- Roomy cabin with usable back seats
- Mild-hybrid aids town economy
- Sensible insurance and servicing
Cons
- Rivals offer more kit for money
- 125PS strains when fully loaded
- Boot trails class leaders
- Weaker residuals than German rivals
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Focus 2024 reliable?
The Focus has a solid reliability record, with the 1.0 EcoBoost mild-hybrid engine proving dependable in service. Ford's UK dealer network is extensive, so parts and servicing are easy to arrange wherever you live. Keep up with annual servicing and the cambelt interval to avoid trouble. Most owners report few issues beyond normal wear and tear.
What is the real-world fuel economy of the Focus 1.0 EcoBoost?
Expect around 42-45 mpg in mixed real-world driving from the 125PS mild-hybrid. Gentle motorway cruising can push that into the high 40s. Town driving with lots of stop-start will drop it into the high 30s. The mild-hybrid system helps most in urban traffic.
Which Ford Focus trim should I buy?
Titanium hits the sweet spot for most buyers, adding the big touchscreen, heated seats and driver aids without the ST-Line's stiffer ride. The ST-Line looks sportier and holds its value slightly better. Avoid the base trim if you want the full infotainment suite. Check list prices carefully as Ford often runs deposit contributions.
How much does it cost to insure and tax a Ford Focus?
The Focus 125PS sits in insurance groups 14-16, which is reasonable for a family hatch. VED is the standard rate after the first year, costing £190 per year. Servicing at a Ford dealer runs around £200-£280 for a minor service. Tyres and brake parts are widely available and affordable.
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