2023 Ford Focus Review: Specs, Price & Safety Ratings

The Ford Focus is a popular hatchback in Australia that offers a sleek design, impressive performance, and a range of features. It has gone through several generations, with the current fourth generation being introduced in 2018. The 2023 model year brings minor updates, including a new front grille and standard LED lights. The Focus offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating and a decent-sized cargo area. It comes with a variety of engine options, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid. 

• The 2023 Ford Focus offers a sleek design, impressive performance, and a range of features.
• The Focus has a spacious interior with comfortable seating and a decent-sized cargo area.
• It comes with a variety of engine options, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid.
• The Focus boasts advanced safety features and has received favourable safety ratings.
• The 2023 model year brings minor updates, including a new front grille and standard LED lights.

The Ford Focus offers a range of models and trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a basic and affordable option or a more luxurious and feature-packed variant, the Focus lineup has something for everyone.

Here is an overview of the different models and trim levels available:

• Trend: The base model of the Ford Focus, offers essential features and functionality.
• ST-Line: This trim level adds a sportier appearance and performance-oriented features.
• Titanium: The Titanium trim level brings a touch of luxury with premium amenities and advanced technology.
• ST-Line X: The top-of-the-line Ford Focus ST offers the highest level of performance and refinement, with additional features and enhancements.
• Focus RS:  The Ford Focus RS is a high-performance compact car known for its powerful engine, agile handling, and active design. With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive system, the Focus RS delivers an exhilarating driving experience.

Each trim level comes with its own set of features and options, allowing you to customize your Ford Focus to your liking. From the entry-level Trend to the high-performance ST-Line X, you can choose the model that best suits your needs and preferences.

The Ford Focus offers a range of engine options to cater to different drivers. Whether you prioritize power, fuel efficiency, or a combination of both, there is an engine choice for you. Here are the engine options available:

Petrol Engines

The Focus offers two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre and a 1.5-litre engine. The 1.0-litre engine is turbocharged and provides a balance of power and efficiency. It delivers responsive acceleration while still offering impressive fuel economy. The 1.5-litre engine, on the other hand, offers more power for the hot hatch.

Diesel Engine

If you're looking for better fuel economy, the small car offers a 1.5-litre diesel engine. This engine provides excellent efficiency while still delivering adequate power for everyday driving. It's a great choice for long-distance commuters or those who prefer the torque and range offered by diesel engines.

Hybrid Powertrain

The Ford Focus is also available as a hybrid model. The hybrid powertrain combines a traditional  engine with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and a starter/generator motor. This setup improves both torque and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance.

With its range of engine options, the Ford Focus offers something for every driver's needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize power, fuel efficiency, or a combination of both, the Focus has you covered.

The Ford Focus offers a comfortable and well-designed interior equipped with a range of advanced technology features. The highlight of the interior is the large 13.2-inch infotainment system, which serves as the hub for navigation, media, and phone connectivity. With its user-friendly interface, you can easily access various functions and features. The infotainment system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the go.

Inside the Focus, you'll find a spacious cabin with ample legroom, providing a comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, ensuring a pleasant driving experience even on long journeys. Additionally, the Focus offers a useful 375-litre boot space, allowing you to easily store your belongings.

In terms of safety and convenience, the Focus comes equipped with advanced driver-assist systems. These include features such as lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, which help enhance your safety on the road. The Focus also offers connectivity features like remote car control and local hazard information, providing you with real-time updates about potential dangers or road conditions.

Interior and Technology Features at a Glance

The Ford Focus is renowned for its impressive performance and exceptional driving experience. Whether you're tackling city streets or navigating winding country roads, the Focus delivers a thrill behind the wheel. With its precise steering, excellent cornering ability, and expertly tuned suspension, the Focus provides an engaging and exhilarating ride.

When it comes to performance, the small car offers a range of driving modes that allow you to fine-tune your driving experience. These modes enable you to adjust throttle and steering response, as well as suspension stiffness, to suit your preferences and the road conditions. Whether you prefer a comfortable and smooth ride or a more dynamic and sporty feel, the Focus allows you to customize your driving experience.

In addition to its impressive performance, the Focus offers a host of advanced features that enhance your driving experience. From its user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to its supportive seats and spacious cabin, the Focus ensures that every journey is comfortable and enjoyable. The Focus also incorporates advanced driver-assist systems that provide added convenience and safety on the road.

Table: Ford Focus Performance Specs

With its exceptional performance, advanced features, and customizable driving modes, the Ford Focus delivers an unforgettable driving experience. Whether you're a performance enthusiast or simply seeking a car that combines comfort and excitement, the Focus is sure to impress.

The safety of the Ford Focus is a top priority, and it comes equipped with advanced features to provide you with peace of mind on the road. The Focus has received assuring ratings for its safety, reflecting its commitment to keeping you and your passengers protected.

One of the standout features of the Ford Focus is its comprehensive suite of driver-assist systems. These include lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These advanced technologies work together to help prevent accidents and minimize the severity of collisions.

In addition to these safety features, the Focus offers advanced connectivity features that provide local hazard information. This means you'll be alerted to potential dangers on the road, such as roadworks or accidents, helping you navigate safely.

Safety Ratings

The Ford Focus is known for its reliability and rating from reputable testing organizations. These ratings are a testament to the Focus's strong safety performance and its ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash.

• 5-star ANCAP Safety rating 
• Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

These ratings reflect the Focus's excellent crash protection, advanced safety features, and overall commitment to passenger safety.

The Ford Focus offers competitive pricing and good value for money. The price range for the Focus varies depending on the model and trim level, starting from around AUD $25,934 for the base trim. Higher trim levels and additional options can increase the price. However, considering the features, performance, and safety the Focus offers, it provides good value compared to its competitors in the hatchback segment.

Price Range for Ford Focus Models

The Ford Focus provides a range of models and trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences. The base Trend trim offers a competitive starting price, while the higher trims like ST-Line, Titanium, and ST-Line X offer more premium features and performance for those willing to invest a bit more. With its stylish design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive safety features, the hot hatch delivers great value for your money.

When it comes to ownership of the Ford Focus, owners have generally been satisfied with their experience. The Focus has received positive reviews for its overall performance, handling, and comfortable interior. Many owners appreciate the range of technology features and safety equipment that come standard with the Focus.

One of the standout features that owners often mention is the sporty performance of the Focus. With precise steering, great cornering ability, and a well-tuned suspension, the Focus delivers an enjoyable driving experience. It offers a range of driving modes that allow drivers to adjust throttle and steering response, as well as suspension stiffness, providing a customizable ride for different road conditions.

While most owners are happy with their Focus, there are a few concerns that have been raised. Some owners have mentioned that the ride quality can be firm, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize a smoother ride. Fuel economy has also been mentioned as an area where the Focus could be improved, as it may not be as efficient as some of its competitors.

Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is known for its refined handling, upscale interior, and strong build quality. It offers a range of engine options, including efficient diesel and powerful turbocharged petrol engines. The Golf also features advanced safety technologies and a user-friendly infotainment system. However, it may come with a higher price tag compared to its rivals.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 stands out with its sleek and stylish design, premium interior, and engaging driving dynamics. It offers a choice of efficient petrol and diesel engines, delivering a good balance of power and fuel economy. The Mazda 3 also excels in terms of safety, with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features. However, rear seat space and cargo capacity may be slightly compromised compared to some competitors.

Kia Cerato

The Kia Cerato offers a compelling value proposition, with its affordable price, generous standard features, and lengthy warranty. It provides a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. The Cerato also comes with a range of engine choices, including fuel-efficient petrol and diesel options. However, its handling may not be as sporty as some rivals.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is known for its reliability, practicality, and strong resale value. It offers a comfortable and well-built cabin, with plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Civic also comes with a range of engine options, delivering adequate power and fuel efficiency. However, some may find that the infotainment system lacks the intuitiveness of its competitors.

Each of these hatchbacks has its own strengths and appeals to different types of buyers. The Golf offers a refined and upscale experience, while the Mazda 3 delivers a stylish design and engaging driving dynamics. The Cerato provides excellent value for money, and the Civic offers reliability and practicality. Consider your priorities, such as design, engine options, interior space, infotainment, safety features, and price range, to find the hatch that best suits your needs and preferences.

The 2022 Ford Focus, a standout in Australia's hatchback market, combines style, performance, and value. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a sporty and engaging ride, offering a range of models, including the dynamic Focus Active. With its three-cylinder engine and options like automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the Focus caters to various preferences.

Ford Australia's current line-up, including the 2021 and 2022 Ford Focus, features advanced safety and comfort options like climate control and a touchscreen interface. The new Focus, particularly the ST hot hatch, competes well with rivals like the Toyota Corolla, SUVs, and even electric cars like the Hyundai i30 N.

The Focus is noted for its five-door practicality, efficient gearbox, and features like dual-zone climate control. Ford announced updates to the Focus line-up for 2025, ensuring it remains competitive. With considerations like on-road costs, stamp duty, and valuation, the Focus is a smart buy, offering a blend of sedan comfort and crossover-style versatility in models like the ST-Line and Active.

Since its introduction, the Ford Focus, including the 2018 and 2021 models, has been a popular choice in Australia. Its competitive list price, inclusive of dealer delivery and other charges, makes it an attractive option in the hatchback segment. The Focus, built from August with options like DCT and a range of interior trims, continues to evolve, promising an exciting future for Ford enthusiasts. If you're looking for a well-rounded hatchback, the Ford Focus is an excellent option to consider.

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What are the key specs of the 2023 Ford Focus?

The 2023 Ford Focus comes with a range of engine options including a 1.0L EcoBoost, 1.5L EcoBoost, and 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engine, with power outputs ranging from 85 PS to 190 PS. It also offers advanced safety features, a sleek interior, and various technological advancements.

What is the starting price of the 2023 Ford Focus?

The base price for the 2023 Ford Focus varies depending on the trim level and optional features, but it typically starts around the mid-range for its class.

How does the 2023 Focus compare to the previous models?

The 2023 Ford Focus offers updates in terms of design, technology, and performance compared to its predecessors. These updates contribute to a more modern and refined driving experience.

What is the boot space capacity of the Focus?

 The boot space capacity of the Focus varies depending on the model and whether the rear seats are folded down, but it generally offers ample room for luggage and cargo.

Are there any significant changes to the Ford Focus ST X model?

The Ford Focus ST X model includes performance-enhancing features such as sport-tuned suspension, unique styling elements, and additional technological amenities to differentiate it from the standard model.

What are the key specifications of the 2023 Ford Focus' engine?

The 2023 Ford Focus comes with various engine options including a 1.0L EcoBoost, 1.5L EcoBoost, and 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engine, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and performance.

How does the Ford Focus Range compare with the Ford Fiesta?

The Ford Focus Range offers a more spacious interior and a larger trunk capacity compared to the Ford Fiesta. The Focus also comes with more advanced technology features and a sportier driving experience. However, the Fiesta is more affordable and fuel-efficient, making it a great option for budget-conscious consumers.