2002 Ford Focus Ford Wagon review from North America
"Good looks and handling, needs improvement in gas mileage and excess brake dust"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Most objectionable problem and most glaring is the dust from the front wheels. The brake dust that forms immediately after washing the car is just too much to cope with. I had to buy "dust shields" (that many people warned against because it would invalidate the warranty- I bought and installed them anyway when I saw the dealer selling them) and these have controlled the problem to my satisfaction.
My second disillusion is with the gas mileage. On the highway I only get 3l MPG with this wagon. My previous Escort would average 40 MPG. With today's gas prices, I long for the Escort.
General comments?
On the plus side, this wagon is a looker! I love its styling! It is also a lot quieter inside than the Escort and has a much better sound system.
Although the engine is supposed to crank out 134 horsepower, the car is slow when accelerating from a dead stop. However, once on the highway, it does have sufficient passing power.
I have the "SE" model. I would recommend dishing out a few extra dollars and going with the luxury edition. The seats are plain gray and boring.
In short, I'm satisfied with the looks of this car, but not happy with its gas economy.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Great dependability and affordable! |
| 2001 - Focus SE Sport - Street Edition 2.0 liter Zetec Best little sports sedan - Just beware of aftermarket lights on a used one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 ZTX Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 16000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 18500 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Escort |
| Date of Entry | 25th April, 2004 |