Ford Focus Electric Review Car and Driver Insights

The Ford Focus Electric delivers a practical, eco-friendly driving experience with a smooth, quiet ride and 115 MPGe efficiency, making it a standout in the compact EV segment. Car and Driver praises its responsive handling and well-equipped interior, though range limitations keep it from topping the class. A solid choice for urban commuters seeking affordability and reliability.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient Performance: Delivers smooth, quiet acceleration ideal for city driving.
• Limited Range: 76-mile range lags behind rivals—plan short trips.
• Regenerative Braking: Maximize battery life with one-pedal driving.
• Fast Charging: 80% charge in 30 mins with DC fast charging.
• Spacious Interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space for its class.
• Outdated Tech: Infotainment lags—consider smartphone integration.

Ford Focus Electric Review Car and Driver Insights

Introduction: The Electric Revolution Meets Practicality

When the Ford Focus Electric debuted in 2011, it marked a pivotal moment in the automaker’s journey toward electrification. As one of the first mass-market electric vehicles (EVs) from a legacy American manufacturer, the Focus Electric aimed to prove that eco-friendly transportation could be practical, affordable, and even fun. Fast forward to today, and this compact EV has carved a niche for itself among urban commuters, eco-conscious families, and tech-savvy drivers. But how does it stack up in a rapidly evolving EV market? Drawing from expert insights, including Car and Driver evaluations, this review dives deep into the Ford Focus Electric’s strengths, weaknesses, and real-world performance.

From its sleek design to its innovative tech features, the Focus Electric isn’t just a “gas car with a battery.” It’s a purpose-built EV designed to balance range, efficiency, and driver engagement. Whether you’re considering your first EV or upgrading from an older model, this Ford Focus Electric review will help you understand why it remains a compelling choice—despite newer competitors. Let’s explore what makes this car tick, from its battery performance to its interior comfort, and how it fares against the competition.

Design and Exterior: A Familiar Face with a Futuristic Twist

Subtle Styling Cues for an Electric Identity

The Ford Focus Electric retains the classic silhouette of the gasoline-powered Focus, but with key modifications to emphasize its EV credentials. The most noticeable change is the grille-less front fascia, which replaces the traditional grille with a smooth, aerodynamic panel. This not only reduces drag (improving efficiency) but also gives the car a distinctive, modern look. LED daytime running lights and unique alloy wheels further differentiate it from its combustion-engine sibling.

• Aerodynamic enhancements: The front bumper and underbody panels are redesigned to optimize airflow, contributing to a drag coefficient of 0.29—competitive for its class.
• Exterior colors: Exclusive hues like “Electric Blue” and “White Platinum” were offered to highlight its eco-friendly appeal.
• Charging port location: Positioned behind the driver’s-side front wheel, making it easy to access at public charging stations.

Compact Dimensions, Big Practicality

With a length of 171.6 inches and a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, the Focus Electric is a true compact car. This makes it ideal for city driving, where tight parking spaces and congested streets are the norm. The car’s 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space is slightly less than the gasoline Focus due to the battery placement, but it’s still competitive for the segment. For example, the Nissan Leaf (its closest rival) offers 14.5 cubic feet—a negligible difference for most buyers.

Pro tip: The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split, expanding cargo capacity to 43.9 cubic feet. This flexibility is perfect for errands or weekend trips.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Surprisingly Fun

Powertrain and Acceleration

Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the Focus Electric features a 143-horsepower permanent-magnet electric motor paired with a 33.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. This setup delivers 184 lb-ft of torque from a standstill, giving the car a zippy 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds—slower than the gasoline Focus (7.7 seconds) but competitive with rivals like the Chevrolet Spark EV (8.5 seconds).

• Top speed: Electronically limited to 84 mph, which is typical for compact EVs.
• Regenerative braking: The car offers three levels of regen (Low, Medium, High), allowing drivers to customize energy recovery. “High” mode enables one-pedal driving in city traffic.
• Transmission: A single-speed reduction gear ensures smooth, seamless acceleration.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Focus Electric’s weight distribution (50/50 front/rear) and low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) make it surprisingly agile. Car and Driver praised its “tight, responsive steering” and “composed handling,” noting that it corners better than most EVs in its price range. However, the added weight of the battery (4,000 lbs vs. 3,000 lbs for the gasoline model) means the ride is slightly firmer, especially on rough pavement.

Real-world example: During a test drive in Seattle’s hilly terrain, the Focus Electric maintained traction and stability, with minimal body roll. The regen braking system also proved invaluable for controlling speed on steep descents.

Noise and Vibration

Like all EVs, the Focus Electric is nearly silent at low speeds. At highway speeds, wind and tire noise become noticeable, but the cabin remains well-insulated. The electric motor’s whir is barely audible, and there’s no engine vibration—a major plus for daily commutes.

Battery Range, Charging, and Efficiency: The Heart of the EV Experience

EPA-Estimated Range and Real-World Performance

The Focus Electric’s 33.5 kWh battery delivers an EPA-rated range of 115 miles—a solid figure for its era but modest compared to today’s standards. In real-world testing, Car and Driver achieved 102 miles on a full charge during mixed driving (50% highway, 50% city). Cold weather reduced this to 85 miles, highlighting the need for pre-conditioning in winter.

• Range tips:
  • Use the “Eco” drive mode to maximize range.
  • Pre-heat the cabin while plugged in to preserve battery.
  • Avoid aggressive acceleration, which drains the battery faster.

Charging Options and Times

The Focus Electric supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. A full charge takes:

Charging Type	Voltage	Time to 100%	Range Added Per Hour
Level 1 (Standard Outlet)	120V	24 hours	3-5 miles
Level 2 (Home Charger)	240V	4 hours	25 miles
DC Fast Charging (Optional)	480V	30 minutes (80%)	60 miles

Note: DC fast charging was an optional upgrade, available on 2015+ models. Without it, the car is limited to Level 2 charging.

Energy Efficiency

The Focus Electric achieves 105 MPGe (combined), making it one of the most efficient EVs in its class. For context, the 2023 Nissan Leaf achieves 111 MPGe. Over 15,000 miles, this translates to roughly $600 in electricity costs (vs. $1,500 for a gas-powered Focus).

Interior and Tech: Where Comfort Meets Innovation

Cabin Design and Materials

The Focus Electric’s interior is nearly identical to the gasoline model, with high-quality plastics, soft-touch surfaces, and a modern layout. The standout feature is the 10.1-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen, which supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice commands. The digital instrument cluster includes an “Energy Coach” that provides real-time efficiency tips (e.g., “Ease off the accelerator to save 5% battery”).

• Seating: Cloth seats are standard; leather is optional. Front seats offer good support, but rear legroom is tight for tall passengers.
• Noise insulation: Acoustic glass and extra insulation keep cabin noise low.
• Storage: Ample cubbies, cupholders, and a center console bin make it practical for daily use.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The SYNC 3 system is intuitive, with a responsive touchscreen and crisp graphics. Key features include:

• FordPass Connect: Remote start, lock/unlock, and charge status monitoring via smartphone app.
• Navigation: Includes EV-specific routing (e.g., locating charging stations).
• Sound system: A 10-speaker Sony audio system is optional, offering rich, clear sound.

Climate Control and Energy Management

The Focus Electric includes a heat pump (standard on later models), which is more efficient than resistive heating. The car also features a “Charge Now” mode, allowing owners to schedule charging during off-peak hours to save money.

Safety, Reliability, and Ownership Costs: The Long-Term Perspective

Crash Test Ratings and Safety Tech

The Focus Electric earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” from the IIHS. Standard safety features include:

• Six airbags (including knee airbags for the driver)
• Electronic stability control
• Rearview camera
• Blind-spot monitoring (optional)

Car and Driver noted that the car’s low center of gravity reduces rollover risk, a common concern with EVs.

Reliability and Maintenance

According to Consumer Reports, the Focus Electric has above-average reliability, with fewer issues than the gasoline model. The electric drivetrain has fewer moving parts, meaning less maintenance (no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid). However, battery degradation is a concern. Most owners report retaining 80-85% of capacity after 5 years.

Cost of Ownership

The Focus Electric’s total cost of ownership is lower than comparable gasoline cars, thanks to:

• Lower fuel costs: ~$600/year for electricity (vs. $1,500 for gas).
• Tax incentives: Up to $7,500 federal tax credit (if purchased new).
• Reduced maintenance: Estimated $400/year (vs. $600 for the gas model).

Note: Insurance costs may be slightly higher due to the battery’s replacement cost.

Conclusion: Is the Ford Focus Electric Right for You?

The Ford Focus Electric is a well-rounded EV that excels in practicality, efficiency, and driver engagement. While its 115-mile range may feel limiting today, it’s more than enough for most daily commutes. The car’s agile handling, premium interior, and advanced tech features make it a standout in the used EV market. For buyers seeking an affordable, reliable, and fun-to-drive electric car, the Focus Electric remains a strong contender—especially as a second vehicle or city runabout.

However, if you frequently drive long distances or prioritize cutting-edge range, newer EVs like the Tesla Model 3 or Hyundai Kona Electric may be better fits. Ultimately, the Focus Electric proves that Ford’s early bet on electrification paid off, offering a compelling blend of innovation and real-world usability. As Car and Driver aptly put it: “It’s not the fastest or the farthest, but it’s one of the most enjoyable EVs you can drive for the price.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Ford Focus Electric, and how does it compare to other EVs?

The Ford Focus Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 115 miles on a full charge, which is modest compared to newer EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla Model 3. However, it’s well-suited for city driving and short commutes, making it practical for urban dwellers. This Ford Focus Electric review Car and Driver highlights its efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.

How does the Ford Focus Electric perform in terms of acceleration and handling?

The Focus Electric delivers smooth, instant torque from its electric motor, providing peppy acceleration from a stop. While not a sports car, its low center of gravity (thanks to the battery placement) improves handling, making it more agile than the gas-powered Focus in tight corners.

What are the standout tech features in the Ford Focus Electric, according to Car and Driver?

The Ford Focus Electric review Car and Driver praises its SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice-activated controls. Additional features like regenerative braking and a customizable energy display help drivers maximize efficiency.

Is the Ford Focus Electric practical for daily use with its cargo space and seating?

Yes, the Focus Electric retains a roomy cabin and a decent 14.5 cubic feet of trunk space, though slightly less than the gas model due to the battery. Rear-seat legroom is adequate for adults, making it a viable option for small families or carpooling.

How long does it take to charge the Ford Focus Electric, and what are the options?

Using a Level 2 charger (240V), the Focus Electric charges fully in about 4-5 hours, while a standard 120V outlet takes roughly 18-20 hours. For quick top-ups, DC fast charging isn’t available, so planning ahead is essential for longer trips.

What are the main pros and cons highlighted in the Ford Focus Electric review Car and Driver?

Pros include its nimble handling, quiet ride, and user-friendly tech. Cons are its limited range and lack of fast-charging capability. As noted in this Ford Focus Electric review Car and Driver, it’s best for buyers prioritizing affordability and city driving over long-range needs.