2017 Ford Focus Electric Car Review Performance and Features

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric delivers a smooth, quiet ride with an EPA-estimated 115 MPGe and a 100-mile range, making it a practical choice for eco-conscious commuters. Its responsive handling and well-equipped interior—featuring SYNC 3 infotainment, heated seats, and active park assist—offer strong value in the compact EV segment. While not the longest-range option, it excels in urban efficiency and daily usability.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient performance: Delivers 115 MPGe, ideal for city commutes.
• Quick charging: 30-minute fast charge adds 80% range.
• Spacious interior: Comfortably seats five with ample cargo space.
• Tech-forward features: Includes SYNC 3 infotainment and navigation.
• Smooth handling: Responsive steering and quiet, comfortable ride.
• Eco-friendly materials: Uses recycled and sustainable cabin materials.
• Competitive pricing: Affordable EV with strong value proposition.

Introduction: The Electric Revolution and the 2017 Ford Focus Electric

The automotive industry has undergone a transformative shift in the last decade, with electric vehicles (EVs) stepping from the fringes into the mainstream. As governments push for reduced emissions, consumers seek fuel-efficient alternatives, and automakers invest heavily in green technology, the electric car market has exploded with innovation. Among the contenders aiming to balance affordability, practicality, and eco-conscious driving, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric stands out as a compelling option for those dipping their toes into the EV world. Unlike high-priced luxury EVs, the Focus Electric offered a more accessible entry point without sacrificing the core values of reliability, safety, and modern technology.

Launched as Ford’s first all-electric vehicle in the North American market, the 2017 model year brought several key improvements over its predecessors. With a more refined design, upgraded battery efficiency, and an expanded suite of smart features, the Focus Electric positioned itself as a viable alternative to gasoline-powered compact sedans. It wasn’t designed to outpace a Tesla Model S or match the range of a Chevrolet Bolt, but rather to serve urban commuters, suburban families, and eco-minded drivers who wanted a dependable, zero-emission vehicle for daily use. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the performance, features, charging capabilities, interior comfort, and real-world usability of the 2017 Ford Focus Electric—giving you everything you need to know before making your next car purchase.

Performance and Powertrain: How the Focus Electric Drives

Electric Motor and Acceleration

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric is powered by a single permanent-magnet electric motor that delivers 143 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors produce maximum torque instantly, which translates into brisk off-the-line acceleration. The car goes from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.7 seconds—a respectable figure for a compact EV, especially when compared to its gas-powered sibling, the standard Ford Focus, which takes closer to 10.5 seconds. While it won’t win any drag races, the Focus Electric provides a smooth, linear power delivery that feels responsive in city traffic and confident on highway on-ramps.

One of the standout traits of the Focus Electric is its regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery. Ford engineers calibrated the system to be highly effective, allowing drivers to maximize energy recovery with minimal input. For example, in stop-and-go urban driving, lifting off the accelerator can bring the car to a near-complete stop without touching the brake pedal—a feature Ford calls “one-pedal driving.” This not only improves efficiency but also reduces wear on the physical brakes, a practical benefit for city dwellers.

Driving Modes and Efficiency

The 2017 Focus Electric offers two distinct driving modes: Normal and Eco. In Normal mode, the car behaves like a traditional electric vehicle with full responsiveness and standard regenerative braking. Switching to Eco mode softens throttle response and increases regenerative braking intensity, which helps extend range by up to 10% under optimal conditions. This is particularly useful during longer commutes or when you’re trying to stretch your battery to the next charging station.

Efficiency is measured at 107 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in the city and 99 MPGe on the highway, with a combined rating of 103 MPGe. These numbers place the Focus Electric among the top-tier efficient compact EVs of its era. For context, driving 15,000 miles annually would cost approximately $550 in electricity (based on the U.S. average of $0.13/kWh), compared to roughly $1,500 for a gas-powered compact car averaging 30 mpg. Over five years, that’s a potential savings of nearly $5,000—a strong financial incentive for eco-conscious drivers.

Handling and Ride Quality

Thanks to its low center of gravity (the battery pack is mounted beneath the floor), the Focus Electric handles corners with surprising agility. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections better than many rivals in the compact class. However, the car’s curb weight of 3,640 pounds—about 400 pounds heavier than the gas-powered Focus—does make it feel slightly less nimble during aggressive cornering. That said, the weight distribution is nearly 50:50, contributing to balanced handling and stable highway cruising.

Steering is light and precise, ideal for urban maneuvering and tight parking situations. The electric power steering system also adjusts effort based on speed—lighter at low speeds for easier parking, firmer at higher speeds for improved feedback. Overall, the driving experience is quiet, composed, and perfectly suited for daily commuting.

Range, Charging, and Battery Technology

Battery Capacity and Range

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric is equipped with a 33.5 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, an upgrade from the 23 kWh unit used in earlier models. This larger battery enables an EPA-estimated range of 115 miles on a full charge. While this falls short of newer EVs like the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt (238 miles) or the Tesla Model 3 (220+ miles), it’s still more than sufficient for the average American driver, whose daily commute is under 40 miles.

Real-world range can vary based on driving habits, weather, and climate control usage. For example, in mild spring conditions with moderate use of the heater and radio, drivers often report achieving 105–110 miles. However, in cold winter months (below 32°F), range can drop by 20–30% due to battery inefficiency and increased cabin heating demands. To mitigate this, Ford includes a pre-conditioning feature via the MyFord Mobile app—allowing you to warm up the cabin while the car is still plugged in, preserving battery for driving.

Charging Options and Times

The Focus Electric supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Here’s a breakdown of charging times:

• Level 1 (standard household outlet): Approximately 26 hours for a full charge (1.4 kW rate)
• Level 2 (240V home or public charger): About 5 hours for a full charge (7.2 kW rate)
• DC Fast Charging (CHAdeMO): Not supported—this is a notable limitation compared to competitors like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt, which offer fast charging capabilities.

While the lack of DC fast charging may deter road-trippers, it’s less of an issue for city drivers who charge overnight. Installing a Level 2 home charger is highly recommended—it’s a one-time investment (typically $500–$1,200 including installation) that pays off in convenience and faster turnaround. Ford partnered with ChargePoint to offer discounted home charging stations to Focus Electric buyers, simplifying the transition to EV ownership.

Battery Management and Longevity

Ford designed the battery with longevity in mind. The liquid-cooled thermal management system helps maintain optimal battery temperature, preventing degradation in extreme heat or cold. Ford offers an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery and electric components—giving buyers peace of mind. In real-world usage, most 2017 Focus Electric owners report minimal battery degradation after 50,000 miles, with only a 5–8% loss in range, which is excellent for an early-generation EV.

Pro tip: To maximize battery life, avoid frequent deep discharges (below 20%) and keep the car plugged in when parked for extended periods. Ford’s battery management system automatically balances charge levels and prevents overcharging, making long-term ownership hassle-free.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort

Cabin Design and Materials

The 2017 Focus Electric shares its interior architecture with the standard Focus, but with subtle EV-specific touches. The cabin is well-built with soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors, though some hard plastics remain in lower trim areas. The overall design is modern and functional, with a driver-focused layout that prioritizes ease of use.

The most noticeable EV feature is the digital instrument cluster, which replaces traditional gauges with a full-color display. It shows real-time energy flow, battery charge level, regenerative braking activity, and range estimates. Drivers can customize the display to show navigation, audio, or efficiency stats—enhancing the high-tech feel.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Focus Electric comes standard with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, a significant upgrade over the previous SYNC 2. SYNC 3 features an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen with pinch-to-zoom functionality, faster processing, and improved voice recognition. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (a rarity in 2017), allowing seamless integration with smartphones for navigation, music, and messaging.

• Standard features: 6-speaker audio system, USB ports (front and rear), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot (with AT&T partnership)
• Available upgrades: Sony premium audio with 10 speakers, HD Radio, navigation

The SYNC 3 system is intuitive and responsive, though some users report occasional lag during startup. The voice command system excels at handling phone calls and audio control, though it struggles with complex navigation inputs—best done via smartphone mirroring.

Comfort and Practicality

Front seats are supportive and offer ample adjustability, though taller drivers may find the headroom slightly limited. Rear seat space is adequate for two adults, with a flat floor thanks to the absence of a driveshaft tunnel—ideal for middle passengers. Legroom measures 33.2 inches, which is competitive in the compact class.

Cargo capacity is 14.2 cubic feet—a slight reduction from the gas-powered Focus (15.4 cu ft) due to the battery pack. However, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats allow for flexible storage. The trunk is well-shaped and includes a hidden compartment under the floor for the charging cable and tools.

Climate control is fully electric, with a heat pump option (available in select trims) that improves efficiency in cold weather by using waste heat from the battery and motor. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, a luxury feature in this segment.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Standard and Available Safety Tech

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with the optional automatic emergency braking system. This is a testament to Ford’s commitment to safety across all models.

Standard safety features include:

• AdvanceTrac with electronic stability control
• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Front, side, and curtain airbags
• Rearview camera
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Available driver assistance features (on higher trims or via packages):

• Active Park Assist: Automatically steers the car into parallel or perpendicular spaces—useful in tight urban parking lots.
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): Alerts drivers to vehicles in blind spots during lane changes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching vehicles when reversing out of parking spaces.
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead and can apply brakes if a collision is imminent.

Crash Test Performance and Real-World Protection

In IIHS crash tests, the Focus Electric scored “Good” ratings in all categories, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints. The optional automatic emergency braking system (part of the Technology Package) earned a “Superior” rating for front crash prevention, capable of reducing impact speed by up to 10 mph in simulated tests.

Real-world examples highlight the car’s protective design. In a 2018 incident in Portland, Oregon, a Focus Electric was rear-ended at 40 mph. The driver reported no injuries, and the rear crumple zone absorbed the impact effectively—demonstrating the structural integrity of Ford’s EV platform.

Pricing, Value, and Ownership Experience

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric was offered in a single trim level—**Electric**—with optional packages to enhance features. The base MSRP was $29,170, but with federal and state incentives, the effective price dropped significantly. For example:

• Federal tax credit: $7,500 (available at time of purchase)
• California HOV sticker: $2,500 rebate + access to carpool lanes
• Colorado, Maryland, and others: Additional state rebates up to $5,000

After incentives, the net price could fall below $20,000 in some regions—making it one of the most affordable EVs on the market.

Cost of Ownership and Maintenance

Electric vehicles are inherently cheaper to maintain. The Focus Electric has no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust system to worry about. Scheduled maintenance is minimal:

• Every 10,000 miles: Cabin air filter check, tire rotation
• Every 30,000 miles: Battery coolant inspection, brake fluid check
• Every 100,000 miles: Battery coolant replacement (if needed)

Annual maintenance costs average $300–$400, compared to $600–$800 for a comparable gas-powered Focus. Insurance rates are slightly higher due to the car’s battery and tech content, but many insurers offer green vehicle discounts.

Resale Value and Long-Term Outlook

As of 2024, the 2017 Focus Electric holds a resale value of 40–45% of its original MSRP—slightly below average for the segment, but better than many early EVs. The limited production run (only about 2,500 units sold in 2017) and lack of fast charging have impacted demand, but well-maintained examples with low mileage still attract buyers seeking affordable electric transportation.

Ford discontinued the Focus Electric after 2018, shifting focus to the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. However, the 2017 model remains a solid used EV choice—especially for first-time buyers or those with short commutes.

Data Comparison: 2017 Ford Focus Electric vs. Key Competitors

Feature	2017 Ford Focus Electric	2017 Nissan Leaf	2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Range (EPA)	115 miles	107 miles (SV/SL)	238 miles
Horsepower	143 hp	107 hp	200 hp
0-60 mph	9.7 seconds	10.5 seconds	6.5 seconds
DC Fast Charging	No	Yes (CHAdeMO)	Yes (CCS)
Infotainment	SYNC 3 w/ CarPlay/Android Auto	NissanConnect (no CarPlay in 2017)	Chevy MyLink w/ CarPlay/Android Auto
Base MSRP	$29,170	$30,680	$37,495
MPGe (Combined)	103 MPGe	112 MPGe	119 MPGe

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Ford Focus Electric Worth It?

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric may not be the longest-range or fastest-charging EV on the market, but it delivers where it matters most: affordability, reliability, and everyday usability. It’s an excellent choice for city dwellers, short-commute drivers, and families seeking a practical, zero-emission vehicle without the premium price tag of newer models. With strong safety ratings, a well-appointed interior, and Ford’s proven SYNC 3 technology, the Focus Electric strikes a smart balance between innovation and value.

Its limitations—such as the lack of DC fast charging and modest range—are understandable given its 2017 release date and position as Ford’s first mass-market EV. For those not planning cross-country road trips, these drawbacks are minor. In fact, the Focus Electric excels in urban environments, where its regenerative braking, quiet operation, and compact footprint shine. With generous tax incentives available at purchase and low operating costs over time, it offers a compelling total cost of ownership.

If you’re considering a used EV, the 2017 Focus Electric deserves a spot on your shortlist. Look for models with the Technology Package (for safety features) and a Level 2 home charger. Test drive it in your typical driving conditions—chances are, you’ll find that 115 miles is more than enough to cover your daily needs, all while reducing your carbon footprint and saving on fuel. In the evolving world of electric mobility, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric proves that going green doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort, style, or practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2017 Ford Focus Electric car?

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 115 miles on a full charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and urban driving. This range is competitive for its class, though it lags behind newer EV models.

How fast does the 2017 Ford Focus Electric car charge?

Using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric can fully recharge in about 4-5 hours. With a standard 120-volt outlet, charging takes significantly longer—roughly 20-24 hours.

What are the standout features of the 2017 Ford Focus Electric car?

The 2017 Ford Focus Electric includes features like SYNC 3 infotainment, heated front seats, and a rearview camera as standard. It also offers smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rare feature in electric cars of its time.

Is the 2017 Ford Focus Electric car reliable?

Yes, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric has a solid reliability record, with few reported major mechanical or battery issues. Regular maintenance and battery care are recommended to ensure long-term performance.

How does the 2017 Ford Focus Electric compare to gas-powered models?

The Focus Electric delivers instant torque for quicker acceleration but has a higher upfront cost than its gas counterparts. It also offers lower operating costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses.

What safety features does the 2017 Ford Focus Electric car include?

The 2017 model comes with standard safety features like electronic stability control, multiple airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Advanced options like blind-spot monitoring are available on higher trims.