2001 Ford Focus ZX3 from North America - Comments

Well as soon as I stopped at the nearest gas station to fill up after leaving the dealership, I flipped the console light on just to check it out and the switch just broke off. I also hear a rattling sound on the dash.

Other than the minor problem I had, the ZX3 is great. It rides very smooth on its independent suspension. Very roomy for someone like myself of 6'3. I like the comfort of the seats and armrest also. The exterior and interior have a unique and appealing look that pleases me.

Its performance is not what I expected though, I previously owned an Acura Integra which had a 1.8L 16v dual overhead cam four-cylinder motor. Which has is smaller than the Focus, yet the Integra felt and seemed like it had more power. The Focus steering and handling are superb, and very similar to my previous car. It took a little bit to get used to the shifting in the Focus, because from first to third gear it doesn't have any get up and go. The gears are so far apart.

The Focus ZX3 has a great deal of extras that really lead me to buy the car: stereo CD, 16" rims, fog lights, remote locks, titanium interior trim, 3 cup holders (ahh cup holders, Integra had none), and plenty of storage compartments. One thing Ford could have thrown in, chrome exhaust tip!

Don't be fooled by this guy. The ZX3 is an exceptional vehicle for the dollar. I purchased a ZX3 with only A/C as an option. Tons of things were standard that are not on other vehicles (great C/D stereo, leather steering wheel cover, fog lamps, THREE CUP HOLDERS "whatever", they're there).

ACURA's are pieces of crap. My ZX3 eats them for late night snacks. The 2.0 is very quick. I have only been smoked cleanly by one car... a Viper! No joke! I have beaten every BMW, and rice eating car on the road from dead stop or highway acceleration. My top speed is limited to 110, but can be overcome with a chip.

If you learn how to drive the car you cannot be beat. Handling is pretty darn good for the stock package, 15 X 60 series tires. Gets even better at higher speeds due to great aerodynamics. I would buy another in a minute. I challenge anyone to find a better car than mine NEW for $12,000.14 out the door. FOCUS OWNERS ROCK!!!

I own a 2001 ZX3 and have had it for 8 months. I have to say that I love the way it is laid out. I am 6'5 and fit comfortably in it. I don't think I could say that about most mid-sized cars! It is very quick off the line but teters off in the long run. I too have beaten several Mercedes and other 6 cylinder cars. The ZX3 is a great car for the money and so far I have had no problems with it.

I own a 2000 Ford Focus ZX3 and to be blunt, I will never buy another ever again. The car has actually put me off Ford products in general. Just so you know where I'm coming from, here is a list of the problems I've had and the time frame in which I had them.

1st year (2000)

Clutch replacement

New Transmission (3 weeks after buying the car)

Wheel bearings in all 4 tires replaced

Fuel Pump replaced

Second keyless door remote dies.

2nd year (2001)

Clutch replacements

Clutch return spring replaced

New Transmission again

Wheel bearings in all 4 tires replaced again

*Yes, I can drive standard and have been for many years*

3rd year (2002)

Minor things start to break or fall off:

Interior roof securing pin falls out in the rear

Two replaced manual window cranks pop off.

Can you feel my pain now?

I bought my focus ZX3 about 4 months ago, I got it with 26,000 miles on it, I never had any problems with it besides I had to put a new battery in the Remote, But that was only 3 bucks. Never had any problems, good acceleration, the interior is unique, that's why I like it, the stock sound system that is in it sounds pretty good. Great gas mileage, handles very well on corners, it purrs like a kitten. I'm glad that I purchased this car. the only thing that I don't like about the car is that when I push the gas, it sticks, so it jerks a little when I take off when I'm stopped at a light.