Ford Focus Electric Car Review A Complete Buyers Guide

The Ford Focus Electric is a practical, eco-friendly hatchback with a smooth ride and user-friendly tech, making it a strong contender in the compact EV market. With a 115-mile range and 143 MPGe efficiency, it’s ideal for city commutes, though its limited fast-charging support may deter long-distance drivers. Packed with standard safety features and a competitive price, it’s a smart buy for budget-conscious green drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient performance: Delivers smooth, quiet rides with 115 MPGe efficiency.
• Affordable pricing: Lower upfront cost than most rivals in the EV segment.
• Daily range: 115-mile range suits city driving but lags on highways.
• Fast charging: DC fast charging adds 50 miles in under 30 minutes.
• Tech features: SYNC 3 infotainment is intuitive but lacks Android Auto.
• Cargo space: Spacious trunk but smaller than gas-powered Focus models.

Ford Focus Electric Car Review: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to the electric vehicle (EV) market, the Ford Focus Electric is a name that has quietly carved out a niche for itself. While not as flashy as Tesla or as globally marketed as the Nissan Leaf, the Focus Electric brings a compelling blend of practicality, affordability, and Ford’s trusted engineering to the table. As automakers race to electrify their fleets, the Focus Electric stands as a testament to Ford’s early commitment to sustainable mobility—launched in 2011 and updated through 2018, it offered a glimpse into the future of urban and suburban driving. Though production ended in 2018 to make way for the more advanced Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, the Focus Electric remains a relevant option in the used EV market, especially for buyers seeking a reliable, compact electric car with a proven track record.

This comprehensive Ford Focus Electric car review is designed to be your go-to buyer’s guide, whether you’re considering a new-to-you 2017 model or simply researching the evolution of Ford’s electric offerings. We’ll dive into every critical aspect: performance and range, interior and technology, charging options, ownership costs, safety, and real-world usability. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a city commuter, or a family looking for a secondary eco-friendly vehicle, this guide will help you determine if the Focus Electric is the right fit for your lifestyle. With rising fuel prices, growing environmental concerns, and increasing EV incentives, now is the perfect time to explore what this compact electric hatchback has to offer.

Performance and Range: What You Can Expect on the Road

The Ford Focus Electric is powered by a 143-horsepower electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. While these specs may not sound groundbreaking compared to today’s EVs, they were competitive for their time and remain practical for daily driving needs. The car delivers 184 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors deliver peak torque instantly—this means the Focus Electric accelerates briskly from a standstill, making it ideal for merging onto highways or navigating busy intersections.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

One of the most critical factors for any EV buyer is range. The Focus Electric was rated at **76 miles (122 km)** of EPA-estimated range on a full charge for the 2012–2016 models. The 2017 and 2018 models saw an upgrade to a **107-mile (172 km)** range thanks to a larger 33.5 kWh battery pack—a significant improvement that addressed one of the earlier models’ biggest drawbacks. For context, the average American drives about **37 miles per day**, meaning the Focus Electric can comfortably cover most daily commutes without needing a recharge.

However, real-world range varies based on driving habits, climate, and terrain. For example:

• City driving: Expect closer to 90–100 miles in urban environments with frequent stops and regenerative braking.
• Highway driving: At sustained speeds of 65–70 mph, range can drop to 70–80 miles due to aerodynamic drag and reduced regenerative braking.
• Cold weather: In freezing temperatures, battery efficiency can decrease by 20–30%, reducing range to around 60–75 miles. Using the cabin heater also draws power from the battery.

Tip: Use the Focus Electric’s built-in SmartGauge with EcoGuide system to monitor energy consumption and optimize driving efficiency. The dashboard displays real-time feedback on acceleration, braking, and climate usage—helping you extend your range through eco-driving techniques.

Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes

The Focus Electric features a robust regenerative braking system that captures energy during deceleration and braking. It offers multiple levels of regen:

• Standard mode: Moderate regen, similar to coasting in a gas-powered car.
• Low mode: Minimal regen for smoother coasting—ideal for highway driving.
• High mode: Strong regen that allows for “one-pedal driving” in city traffic, where lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly.

This flexibility lets drivers tailor the driving experience to their preference. For instance, in stop-and-go traffic, high regen can reduce brake wear and extend battery life. In contrast, low regen is better for highway cruising where coasting is more common.

Acceleration and Handling

With a 0–60 mph time of around **9.5 seconds**, the Focus Electric isn’t a performance car, but it’s more than adequate for daily use. The low center of gravity—thanks to the battery pack mounted under the floor—gives the car excellent handling and stability in corners. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections well, though it leans slightly in sharp turns. Steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight urban spaces.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort: A Smart Urban Companion

Inside, the Ford Focus Electric offers a surprisingly upscale cabin for a compact EV. While it shares much of its design with the standard Focus, Ford made thoughtful upgrades to enhance the electric driving experience. The interior blends modern aesthetics with practicality, making it a great choice for city dwellers and small families.

Dashboard and Infotainment System

The centerpiece of the cabin is the **SYNC 3 infotainment system**, available from 2017 onward. It features an 8-inch touchscreen with intuitive navigation, voice recognition, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is responsive, with crisp graphics and easy-to-use menus—far superior to the earlier MyFord Touch system.

Key tech features include:

• Navigation with EV routing: The system calculates routes based on battery range and locates nearby charging stations.
• Remote climate control: Pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin while the car is still charging—saving battery and ensuring comfort upon entry.
• FordPass Connect: Enables remote start, lock/unlock, vehicle location, and charging status via a smartphone app.

Even base models come with Bluetooth, USB ports, and a rearview camera—features that were advanced for a compact car at the time.

Seating and Cargo Space

The Focus Electric seats five, though rear legroom is modest—best suited for children or average-height adults. Front seats are supportive and offer good visibility, with available heated seats for colder climates. The cabin is well-insulated, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum, though some tire noise is noticeable on rough pavement.

Cargo capacity is **11.8 cubic feet** with the rear seats up and **33.9 cubic feet** when folded—slightly less than the gas-powered Focus due to the battery placement. However, this is still competitive for the class. The hatchback design makes loading groceries, strollers, or luggage easy. A hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor is perfect for stashing charging cables or emergency kits.

Materials and Build Quality

Interior materials are a mix of soft-touch plastics and durable fabrics. Higher trims offer leather-trimmed seats and piano-black accents, giving the cabin a premium feel. Build quality is solid, with minimal squeaks or rattles—a hallmark of Ford’s attention to detail. The only notable omission is a sunroof, which isn’t available in any Focus Electric trim, likely to preserve headroom and structural integrity.

Charging Options and Infrastructure: Powering Your Daily Drive

One of the most important considerations for any EV buyer is charging. The Ford Focus Electric supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging, with no DC fast charging capability—a limitation compared to newer EVs, but one that’s manageable for its intended use case.

Level 1 Charging (120V)

Using a standard household outlet (NEMA 5-15), the Focus Electric adds about **4 miles of range per hour**. This means a full charge from empty takes roughly **26 hours** on the 33.5 kWh battery. While convenient for occasional use, Level 1 charging is impractical for daily commuters who need a full charge overnight. It’s best reserved for emergency charging or when no other options are available.

Level 2 Charging (240V)

The real game-changer is Level 2 charging. With a 240V home charger (NEMA 14-50 or a dedicated EVSE), the Focus Electric can recharge in **4–5 hours**—ideal for overnight charging. Ford includes a **120V/240V dual-mode charger** with every new purchase, so you can use it at home or take it to a public Level 2 station.

Tip: Consider installing a Level 2 home charger (typically $500–$800 installed). Many local utility companies offer rebates for EVSE installation, and it significantly reduces charging time. For example, charging from 20% to 100% takes just 3.5 hours with a 7.2 kW charger.

Public Charging and Network Access

The Focus Electric uses the **J1772 connector** for AC charging, which is the North American standard. This means it’s compatible with thousands of public Level 2 chargers from networks like:

• ChargePoint
• EVgo (Level 2 stations)
• Electrify America (Level 2 only)
• Semaconnect

Ford also partnered with **ChargePoint** to offer Focus Electric owners access to over 12,000 charging stations across the U.S. and Canada. The FordPass app helps locate nearby chargers, check availability, and start charging sessions remotely.

However, unlike newer EVs, the Focus Electric does not support DC fast charging. This means you can’t use Tesla Superchargers (without an adapter) or Electrify America’s 150+ kW stations. For long trips, this is a limitation—but for city and suburban driving, it’s rarely an issue.

Charging Cost Estimates

Charging costs depend on local electricity rates. Assuming an average U.S. rate of **$0.13 per kWh**, here’s what you can expect:

• Full charge (33.5 kWh): $4.36
• Per 100 miles: $4.07 (based on 3.3 mi/kWh efficiency)
• Monthly (1,000 miles): ~$40.70

Compare this to a gas-powered compact car averaging 30 mpg and $3.50/gallon—about $116.67 per month. The savings add up quickly, especially with rising fuel prices.

Ownership Costs, Incentives, and Long-Term Value

One of the biggest advantages of the Ford Focus Electric is its low total cost of ownership (TCO). While the initial purchase price may be higher than a gas-powered Focus, the savings over time—especially in fuel and maintenance—make it a smart long-term investment.

Purchase Price and Incentives

When new, the Focus Electric started around **$29,170** (2017 model), but buyers could qualify for significant incentives:

• Federal Tax Credit: Up to $7,500 (if purchased new and within phase-out limits).
• State and Local Incentives: Varies by location—California offered up to $2,500 in rebates, and some states provided free public charging or HOV lane access.
• Dealer Incentives: Ford occasionally offered $2,000–$5,000 in cash rebates to boost sales.

Today, the Focus Electric is available on the used market for **$10,000–$18,000** (2017–2018 models in good condition), making it an affordable entry point into EV ownership. While used EVs don’t qualify for federal tax credits, some states still offer rebates for used EV purchases.

Maintenance and Reliability

Electric vehicles require far less maintenance than gas-powered cars. The Focus Electric has:

• No oil changes
• No spark plugs, timing belts, or exhaust systems
• Regenerative braking reduces brake wear
• Fewer moving parts = lower failure risk

Routine maintenance includes:

• Tire rotations (every 7,500 miles)
• HVAC filter replacement
• 12V battery check (yes, EVs still have a small 12V battery)
• Coolant and brake fluid flushes (every 5–7 years)

Ford offers a 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty on the Focus Electric—longer than most gas-powered powertrain warranties. This gives buyers peace of mind regarding battery longevity.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Like most EVs, the Focus Electric experienced steep depreciation when new. However, as the used EV market grows, values have stabilized. A well-maintained 2017 model with low mileage can still hold **60–70% of its original value** after 5 years—better than many gas-powered compacts. High demand for affordable EVs has also boosted resale potential.

Safety, Reliability, and Real-World Usability

Safety is paramount, and the Ford Focus Electric delivers strong results. It earned a **5-star overall safety rating** from the NHTSA and top scores in most IIHS crash tests. The electric powertrain adds an extra layer of safety—no flammable fuel, no exhaust emissions, and a lower center of gravity reducing rollover risk.

Standard Safety Features

All Focus Electric models come with:

• AdvanceTrac electronic stability control
• Front, side, and curtain airbags
• Rearview camera
• MyKey parental controls (limit speed, audio volume, and seatbelt reminders)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (available on higher trims)

The car also features active grille shutters to improve aerodynamics and reduce drag, contributing to better range and efficiency.

Reliability and Common Issues

Overall, the Focus Electric has a solid reliability record. The electric drivetrain is robust, with few reported motor or inverter failures. However, some owners have reported:

• 12V battery drain: The auxiliary battery can die if the car sits unused for weeks—common in all EVs.
• Infotainment glitches: Early MyFord Touch systems had lag and freezing issues, but SYNC 3 (2017+) is much improved.
• Battery capacity loss: After 8–10 years, some batteries show 10–15% degradation, though Ford’s warranty covers significant drops.

Tip: When buying used, request a battery health report or use a third-party diagnostic tool like LeafSpy (adapted for Ford) to check state of health (SOH).

Real-World Usability Scenarios

The Focus Electric excels in:

• City commuting: Short trips, frequent stops, and regenerative braking make it ideal.
• Suburban driving: School runs, errands, and weekend outings within 100 miles.
• Second-car households: Paired with a long-range vehicle for road trips.

It’s less suited for:

• Long-distance travel: No fast charging limits range flexibility.
• Extreme climates: Very hot or cold weather can reduce battery efficiency.

Data Table: Ford Focus Electric Specifications (2017–2018 Model)

Feature	Specification
Motor Power	143 hp (107 kW)
Torque	184 lb-ft
Battery Capacity	33.5 kWh Lithium-ion
EPA Range	107 miles (172 km)
0–60 mph	9.5 seconds
Level 2 Charging Time	4–5 hours (0–100%)
DC Fast Charging	Not supported
Cargo Volume (rear seats up)	11.8 cu ft
Seating Capacity	5
Warranty (Battery)	8 years / 100,000 miles
MSRP (2017)	$29,170

Conclusion: Is the Ford Focus Electric Right for You?

The Ford Focus Electric may not have the flash of a Tesla or the range of a modern long-distance EV, but it remains a compelling option for a specific type of buyer. It’s a practical, reliable, and efficient electric car that excels in urban and suburban environments. With a range of up to 107 miles, Level 2 charging compatibility, and low operating costs, it’s ideal for daily commuters, city drivers, and eco-conscious families looking for an affordable entry into the EV world.

Its strengths lie in:

• Proven reliability and Ford’s strong warranty
• Low maintenance and fuel costs
• Smart tech features like SYNC 3 and FordPass
• Compact size and agile handling perfect for city life

However, consider alternatives if you:

• Need fast charging for long trips (look at the Chevrolet Bolt EV or Hyundai Kona Electric)
• Want more than 150 miles of range (the Nissan Leaf Plus or Kia Niro EV may suit you better)
• Require advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise or lane centering (available on newer EVs)

Ultimately, the Ford Focus Electric is a smart buy for those prioritizing value, efficiency, and everyday usability over cutting-edge performance or luxury. As the used EV market expands, it offers a rare combination of affordability and proven technology. Whether you’re switching from gas for the first time or adding a second car to your household, the Focus Electric delivers a smooth, quiet, and sustainable driving experience—proving that going green doesn’t have to mean sacrificing practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Ford Focus Electric car?

The 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 may vary based on driving habits, terrain, and climate conditions.

How long does it take to charge the Ford Focus Electric?

Using a 240V Level 2 charger, the Ford Focus Electric can be fully charged in about 3.6 hours. With a standard 120V household outlet, charging takes significantly longer—up to 20 hours for a full charge.

Is the Ford Focus Electric a good value in its class?

Yes, the Ford Focus Electric provides solid value with its competitive pricing, low running costs, and standard tech features like SYNC 3 infotainment and smartphone integration. While newer EVs offer longer range, it remains a practical choice for budget-conscious eco-drivers.

What are the key features in the Ford Focus Electric car review?

The Ford Focus Electric car review highlights features like regenerative braking, a quiet cabin, and advanced driver-assist technologies such as rearview camera and parking sensors. Its compact size and responsive handling also make it ideal for city driving.

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

The Ford Focus Electric delivers instant torque for smooth acceleration and lower maintenance costs compared to gas models. However, it trades cargo space for the battery pack and requires access to charging infrastructure, which may limit long-distance usability.

Does the Ford Focus Electric qualify for federal or state incentives?

Yes, the Ford Focus Electric may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on battery capacity and current legislation. Many states also offer additional rebates, charging discounts, or HOV lane access—check local programs for eligibility.