Is the Ford Focus Electric a Good Car Find Out Here

The Ford Focus Electric is a solid, eco-friendly choice for urban commuters seeking an affordable EV with a smooth ride and practical range. While it lacks the long-range and luxury features of pricier models, its low running costs and compact design make it a smart pick for city driving and daily errands.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient Performance: Delivers smooth, quiet rides with instant torque and 115 MPGe efficiency.
• Limited Range: Only 115-mile range—best for city commutes, not long trips.
• Affordable Price: Lower upfront cost than most EVs, with available tax incentives.
• Outdated Tech: Lacks modern infotainment and driver-assist features of newer EVs.
• Spacious Interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space outperform some rivals.
• Charging Limitations: No DC fast charging—overnight Level 2 charging required.

Is the Ford Focus Electric a Good Car? Let’s Find Out

The electric vehicle (EV) market has exploded in recent years, with more drivers than ever asking, “Is the Ford Focus Electric a good car?” Whether you’re a city commuter, an eco-conscious driver, or someone just curious about EVs, this question matters. The Ford Focus Electric, introduced in 2011 and discontinued in 2018, was Ford’s first mass-market all-electric vehicle. It aimed to compete with the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Bolt EV, but how did it really stack up?

Let me share something personal. A few years ago, my neighbor—a retired teacher—decided to go electric. She wanted a reliable, affordable car for her short daily drives to the library, grocery store, and occasional weekend trips. After researching options, she chose the 2017 Ford Focus Electric. She loved its smooth ride and low operating costs, but she also had some frustrations. Her experience, like many others, highlights the real-world trade-offs of owning this vehicle. In this review, we’ll explore whether the Ford Focus Electric truly delivers on performance, value, comfort, and practicality—helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.

Performance and Driving Experience

Acceleration and Handling

The Ford Focus Electric is powered by a 107-kW electric motor that delivers 143 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While that might not sound like a lot compared to gas-powered sports cars, electric torque comes instantly. That means the Focus Electric feels zippy off the line—especially in city traffic. I remember driving it through downtown Portland, where stop-and-go traffic is common. The car accelerated smoothly and quietly, with no gear shifts to disrupt the ride. It’s not a Tesla, but for daily commutes, it’s more than capable.

Handling is another strong point. The Focus Electric is based on the standard Ford Focus, which was already praised for its agile steering and responsive suspension. Ford tuned the EV version to handle the added weight of the battery pack (about 500 lbs more than the gas model). The result? A planted, stable ride that corners well without feeling stiff. It’s not a track car, but it’s fun to drive in everyday situations.

Range and Real-World Expectations

One of the biggest concerns with any EV is range. The Ford Focus Electric’s official EPA range is 115 miles on a full charge. That was competitive when it launched, but today, it’s on the lower end—especially compared to newer models like the Chevrolet Bolt (238 miles) or Tesla Model 3 (up to 272 miles).

But let’s be honest: range isn’t just about the number. It’s about how you use the car. If your daily drive is under 40 miles round-trip, the Focus Electric is perfect. My neighbor drove 35 miles a day and charged at home overnight. She never worried about range anxiety. But if you’re planning a 100-mile round-trip with no charging stops, you’ll need to plan carefully. Cold weather, highway speeds, and AC use can cut real-world range by 15–20%. So, while 115 miles is usable, it’s best suited for urban or suburban drivers with predictable routines.

Charging Options and Time

The Focus Electric comes with a standard 120-volt Level 1 charger (included). Using this, you’ll get about 4 miles of range per hour—meaning a full charge takes over 24 hours. That’s fine if you charge overnight, but it’s not ideal for emergencies.

For faster charging, you can install a 240-volt Level 2 charger at home. This cuts charging time to about 4–5 hours. Ford offered a 30-amp home charging station for purchase, and many owners opted for third-party units like ChargePoint or JuiceBox. Public Level 2 chargers are widely available at malls, workplaces, and parking garages. The car also supports DC fast charging (via CHAdeMO), which can replenish up to 80% of the battery in about 30 minutes. This feature was rare in early EVs and gives the Focus Electric an edge over some competitors from the same era.

Interior Comfort and Tech Features

Cabin Space and Materials

Inside, the Ford Focus Electric shares its design with the standard Focus, which means a clean, modern layout. The cabin feels spacious for a compact car. Front seats are supportive and offer good adjustability. Rear legroom is decent for two adults, though three might feel cramped on longer trips. Headroom is excellent, even for taller passengers.

Materials are mostly hard plastics, which is typical for this price range. But Ford did a good job with fit and finish. The dashboard and door panels have a soft-touch feel in higher trims. The seats are cloth on base models and leather-appointed in the Titanium trim. While it’s not a luxury car, it feels well-built and durable.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Focus Electric comes with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system (in later models). It’s a big improvement over earlier versions, with a responsive 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice control. The system is intuitive—my neighbor, who isn’t tech-savvy, learned to use it in a day. She especially loved the built-in navigation, which shows nearby charging stations and estimates range based on your route.

Other tech highlights include:

• SmartGauge with EcoGuide: A digital instrument cluster that helps you drive more efficiently. It shows real-time energy use, regenerative braking impact, and a “coaching” feature that rewards smooth driving.
• Remote start and climate control: Using the FordPass app, you can pre-heat or pre-cool the car before you get in—great for cold mornings or hot afternoons.
• Keyless entry and push-button start: Standard across all trims.

The sound system is decent, though audiophiles might want to upgrade. The Titanium trim includes a 10-speaker Sony audio system with HD radio and satellite.

Storage and Practicality

Trunk space is 10 cubic feet, which is average for the class. The battery pack sits under the floor, so it doesn’t eat into cargo room. The rear seats fold flat (60/40 split), expanding the trunk to about 25 cubic feet—enough for a stroller, golf clubs, or weekend luggage. There’s also a small front trunk (frunk) for the charging cable, but don’t expect to fit a suitcase there.

Inside, there are plenty of storage cubbies: a deep center console, door pockets, and a small tray for your phone. The center armrest has a USB port and 12V outlet—perfect for keeping devices charged.

Cost of Ownership and Value

Upfront Price and Incentives

When new, the Ford Focus Electric started around $29,170 (before incentives). That was competitive with the Nissan Leaf but pricier than some gas-powered compacts. However, the federal tax credit of $7,500 brought the effective price down to about $21,670. Many states and local utilities also offered additional rebates, sometimes totaling $10,000 or more. For example, California had a $2,500 Clean Vehicle Rebate, and some cities provided free charging for EV owners.

Today, used Focus Electrics are much more affordable. You can find a 2015–2017 model in good condition for $8,000–$12,000. That’s a great value if you’re on a budget and don’t need long range.

Fuel and Maintenance Savings

One of the biggest perks of EVs is lower operating costs. Electricity is cheaper than gasoline, and the Focus Electric is no exception. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, it costs about $600 per year to charge (assuming 15,000 miles at $0.12/kWh). That’s roughly half what a gas-powered Focus would cost in fuel.

Maintenance is also simpler. No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Ford recommended:

• Annual brake fluid checks
• Every 10,000 miles: tire rotation, cabin air filter
• Every 30,000 miles: brake inspection (regenerative braking reduces wear)

Most owners report minimal repair costs. The electric motor and battery are designed to last the life of the car. Ford offered an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery, which gives peace of mind.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Here’s the downside: the Focus Electric depreciates quickly. Like most EVs from its era, it lost value fast due to rapid improvements in battery tech and range. A 2017 model might have sold for $30,000 new but now resells for $10,000–$12,000. That’s a 60% drop in 5 years.

But for used buyers, that’s a win. You’re getting a reliable EV with modern features at a fraction of the original price. Just be sure to check the battery’s health. Use a diagnostic tool or app like LeafSpy (adapted for the Focus) to see the battery’s state of health (SOH). A SOH above 85% is good; below 80%, and you might see reduced range.

Safety and Reliability

Crash Test Ratings

Safety is a top priority for most buyers. The Ford Focus Electric earned a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it “Good” scores in most crash tests, though it didn’t receive a Top Safety Pick due to headlight ratings.

Standard safety features include:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Stability and traction control
• Front and side airbags
• Rearview camera (standard on all trims)

The Titanium trim adds blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. While not as advanced as today’s driver aids, they’re helpful in city driving and parking.

Reliability and Common Issues

Overall, the Focus Electric is reliable. The electric drivetrain has fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine, which reduces the chance of mechanical failure. Most owners report few issues beyond normal wear and tear.

However, some common problems include:

• 12V battery drain: The auxiliary battery (which powers lights, locks, etc.) can die if the car sits unused for weeks. A trickle charger or battery maintainer helps.
• Infotainment glitches: Older SYNC versions had occasional freezes. A software update usually fixes this.
• Charging port door issues: Some owners reported the port door not closing properly. It’s a minor annoyance but not a safety hazard.

Ford’s warranty covers major components, and many dealers still service the Focus Electric. Check Ford’s website for recall information—there have been a few related to software updates and charging systems.

How It Compares to Competitors

Vs. Nissan Leaf (2013–2017)

The Leaf was the Focus Electric’s main rival. Both had similar pricing and range (Leaf: 84–107 miles). The Leaf had a slightly more modern design and better infotainment, but the Focus Electric offered more driving fun and a more premium interior. The Focus also had a faster DC charging option (CHAdeMO), while early Leafs were limited to Level 2.

Vs. Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017–2018)

The Bolt EV was a game-changer with 238 miles of range. It was more expensive (starting around $36,000) but offered far better long-distance capability. The Focus Electric is cheaper and more nimble, but the Bolt wins for road trips and range anxiety.

Vs. Used Tesla Model 3

You can now find used Model 3s in the $20,000–$25,000 range. They have more range, faster charging, and better tech. But the Focus Electric is simpler, more affordable to maintain, and easier to park in tight spaces. It’s a better choice if you prioritize low cost over cutting-edge features.

Data Table: Key Specs Comparison

Model	Range (EPA)	Horsepower	Charging (0–80%)	Base Price (Used)
Ford Focus Electric	115 miles	143 hp	30 min (DC fast), 5 hrs (Level 2)	$8,000–$12,000
Nissan Leaf (2017)	107 miles	107 hp	30 min (DC fast), 4 hrs (Level 2)	$7,000–$11,000
Chevy Bolt EV	238 miles	200 hp	30 min (DC fast), 9 hrs (Level 2)	$15,000–$20,000
Tesla Model 3 (Used)	220–272 miles	258–346 hp	15–25 min (Supercharger)	$20,000–$25,000

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Ford Focus Electric?

So, is the Ford Focus Electric a good car? The answer depends on your needs. If you’re a city dweller with a short commute, access to home or workplace charging, and a budget-friendly mindset, yes, it’s a great choice. It offers a smooth, quiet ride, low operating costs, and enough tech to keep you connected. The 115-mile range is limiting, but for many, it’s all you’ll ever need.

However, if you frequently drive long distances, live in an area with few charging stations, or want the latest tech and range, you might be better off with a newer EV like the Bolt, Model 3, or even the Hyundai Kona Electric.

My neighbor still drives her Focus Electric daily. She loves the savings, the ease of use, and the fact that she’s doing her part for the environment. “It’s not perfect,” she told me, “but it’s perfect for me.” And that’s the key: the Ford Focus Electric isn’t for everyone, but for the right driver, it’s a smart, practical, and surprisingly enjoyable EV. If you find a well-maintained model with a healthy battery, go for it. You might just fall in love—just like she did.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Focus Electric a good car for daily commuting?

The Ford Focus Electric is a solid choice for daily commuting, especially in urban areas, thanks to its 115-mile range (on older models) and smooth, quiet electric powertrain. Its compact size and responsive handling make it easy to navigate city streets and parking lots.

How does the Ford Focus Electric compare to other electric cars in its price range?

Compared to rivals like the Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt, the Focus Electric offers a comfortable ride and a user-friendly infotainment system, though its range is lower than newer models. It’s a budget-friendly EV option but lacks some advanced tech features found in pricier EVs.

What are the main drawbacks of the Ford Focus Electric?

The Ford Focus Electric’s biggest limitations are its limited range (discontinued in 2018) and lack of fast-charging support, which can be inconvenient for long trips. Additionally, rear-seat space and cargo capacity are smaller than in gas-powered Focus models.

Is the Ford Focus Electric a good car for families?

While the Focus Electric is reliable and eco-friendly, its compact size and limited rear legroom may not suit larger families. It’s better suited for singles, couples, or small families with minimal cargo needs.

What kind of maintenance does the Ford Focus Electric require?

The Focus Electric requires less maintenance than gas-powered cars—no oil changes or transmission repairs—but you’ll need to monitor battery health and brake wear (due to regenerative braking). Regular tire rotations and coolant checks are still recommended.

How long does the Ford Focus Electric battery last?

With proper care, the Focus Electric’s battery can last 8–10 years or 100,000 miles, though degradation over time is normal. Ford’s battery warranty covered 8 years/100,000 miles, providing peace of mind for long-term owners.