It is generally incorrect to compare two generations of one car. New, in theory, should be better in everything. But the Focus is not an ordinary car for our market, and hundreds of thousands of Russians will really evaluate who is better, sometimes nostalgically recalling: “Oh, my second was...”
Ford Focus II went on sale in 2004, after which it successfully underwent restyling. The “second and a half” Focus - a modification updated in January 2008 - is still being produced on the assembly line in Vsevolozhsk.
The third generation, first shown in Moscow in the summer, will replace it at the Russian plant closer to the summer, while the first production models will reach customers by early September.
The previous Focus's design was a huge step up from the first generation, with the quickly outdated New Edge styling. Smooth and streamlined, it didn’t catch the eye, but it didn’t blend in with the crowd of competitors either.
The new Focus III has changed its clothes no less noticeably; the car shared the family design features of Fiesta and Kuga, receiving powerful “shoulders”, embossed sidewalls, and a radiator grille with huge triangular air intakes.
According to the developers, all this gives the new Focus III aggression and sportiness (it must be said that it is rare that a manufacturer, when introducing a new generation of car to the market, does not mention its increased sportiness and aggression). But at the same time, Focus joined the stream of cars with “European design” - from a distance it can be confused with any of its competitors. Except that no one else has such air intake triangles.
The front panel and doors of the “second” Focus are covered with soft plastic. The three-spoke steering wheel has a comfortable grip; behind it there are three steering column switches, which are not very convenient to reach. The instrument panel and monochrome display displaying computer readings are sufficient for a car at an affordable price. Nothing extra.
In the “third” Focus, everything is more serious than ever: high-quality plastic has become even softer, as if in a higher class, on the steering wheel spokes there are a pair of absolutely identical control joysticks... but with what? They're not signed! The instrument panel has a color display and now displays all vital readings. There is no flip key; in the test car it is replaced by a “Start&Stop” button (by the way, in place of the key there is a plug, i.e. you should expect a key in the basic configuration). Have I seen something like this before? The Mondeo had a similar button output and a display on the instrument panel with the same button.
Well, Focus III not only aims to be a class higher, but also tries to be like its older brother. The steering column switches on the new wheel now live closer to the driver’s hands and are located inside it. Comfortable.
The center console of the “second” has a very angular shape. The media panel with large keys and the climate control unit rarely caused any complaints from drivers. You can only notice that as soon as you take a comfortable sitting position, you have to reach for the necessary keys. But the location of the gearbox selector is optimal. The ashtray is also in its place.
While working on the third generation, the designers decided: enough of the sharp corners and squares, we need to introduce something new. As a result, we see a completely redesigned center console with a separate display and large air vents that take away precious space from the buttons. They turned out to be miniature, but very convenient for switching; the panel is moved closer to the driver, and he no longer needs to reach for anything. The gearshift knob has moved a little to the right, which I personally found inconvenient, but the parking brake handle is now in an accessible place. And the ashtray is gone.
As a result, there is less space for front passengers in the new model, mainly due to the convex and sloping down dashboard. But it’s much easier to sit comfortably in the “third” due to more comfortable seats with excellent lateral support and a moved center console. The second generation is more conservative, and it can no longer keep up with its contemporaries. Who knows, maybe in a couple of years we will say the same about the Focus III?
Focus II has earned motorists the title of one of the most interesting and exciting cars to drive. The 2.0-liter version also has very good dynamic performance. Moreover, if the driver also has a manual transmission, there will be no limit to joy. But as soon as the tachometer needle crosses the 3000 rpm mark. It's getting noisy in the cabin...
In the new hatch, the designers have introduced a number of changes regarding vehicle control. Firstly, there is a new electromechanical power steering, which makes turning even easier and reduces fuel consumption.
The second generation models are comfortable and confidently hold the road. And as soon as you drive onto a dirt road or a snow-covered strip, the rear suspension harshly handles the unevenness and sends a dull thump into the cabin. What about Focus III? Yes, everything is the same. It has perhaps become a little more comfortable and, most importantly, much quieter. True, the new sound insulation will be installed at the factory only in the top and, naturally, expensive versions of the Focus III. Buyers of the basic version will be content with standard sound insulation; we have not yet been able to test cars with it.
The new Focus handles the road well, but its predecessor is no worse. The supercharged Focus III engine paired with a six-speed gearbox perfectly complements the driver's chassis. The only thing that didn’t please me about the new product was the swaying of the body on the “wavy” surface.
What was it like during Soviet times? A person bought the car that he could get in the store. This required standing in huge, multi-year queues. Therefore, a citizen of the USSR rarely faced the choice of what to buy - a Moskvich 412 or a VAZ 2101. Today this question is easier. If there was money, there would be a choice. But the wide range of available funds sometimes puts a person in a difficult position.
For example, when he is offered two similar models in the same price category and with similar technical characteristics? How to choose? Intuitive? Or should we still pay attention to some important differences? For example, which is better - Ford Focus 2 or Mazda 3? Both options can be purchased for up to 500,000 rubles. Models were released in 2007. In terms of equipment, there is a lot in common.
To simplify this choice, it is suggested that you familiarize yourself with the comparison of brands in this article.
What are the dimensions of the Ford Focus 2 and Mazda 3? According to the technical documentation:
That is, in terms of external dimensions, the Mazda 3 clearly wins, although the Ford will be more comfortable for taller people, since it is 2 centimeters higher. In addition, it is more comfortable to move around in a Japanese car, given the greater ground clearance. On the other hand, the American boasts an impressive luggage compartment size, which is also important.
Which is better when compared by external design? The question is complex. The Mazda 3 certainly has a more youthful appearance. It has smooth lines and transitions, the car is more sporty and aggressive in appearance. Ford Focus 2, in appearance, is more suitable for middle-aged people who have already moved away from some eccentric antics and devote their lives to work, family and quieter pastimes.
In this case, everything is even more complicated, since many elements of the technical equipment of these models are similar. For example, the suspension system is completely identical. What's under the hood? This is what interests the potential buyer most. Mazda 3 is equipped with two options of gasoline engines:
Both options come with a manual transmission.
For Ford Focus 2, the choice of engines is much larger. Minimum power – 80 horses, maximum – 145 hp. Available engine sizes: 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 liters. Gearbox – mechanics.
That is, in this regard, the American is clearly better, since a person has more options for choosing a car specifically for his preferences.
The minimum configuration of the Ford Focus 2 is called Ambiente. It includes:
Mazda 3 looks much more interesting in this regard:
That is, in its simplest form, a Japanese car is better equipped than an American one, at least in terms of the safety of the driver and his passengers.
Of course, if you do not take into account the greater variety of power units in the Ford Focus 2, the Mazda 3 clearly looks more interesting. Especially for the younger generation of car enthusiasts who make a choice between these two models. However, it is worth noting one very interesting nuance at the end of the article - the cost of components for the Japanese is much higher than for the American. This is also worth paying attention to and taking into account when purchasing a particular vehicle.
The Russian Focus II was equipped with gasoline engines of 1.4 liters (80 hp), 1.6 liters (100 and 115 hp), 1.8 liters (125 hp) and 2.0 liters (145 hp). Dealers also sold versions with a 1.8-liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 115 horsepower. As standard, the 1.4-liter, 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter engines were combined with a five-speed manual transmission of the IB5 series, and with the 2.0-liter - the same “five-speed”, but with the MTX75 index, capable of “digesting” a larger torque. For all gasoline engines, except the 1.4-liter, a four-speed automatic transmission was offered.
In 2008, Ford introduced the updated Focus, which many even called the third “Focus” - the car was so radically transformed. But it was a classic restyling. The car now has new fenders, a hood, bumpers, headlights, exterior mirrors, and sidewalls - without moldings, but with more dynamic stiffeners. And the most noticeable innovation is the radiator grille in the form of a huge inverted trapezoid. For all versions except the sedan, LED rear lights began to be offered as an option. Another luxury Titanium package has appeared. In the cabin, the climate control unit and instrument panel have been updated. The finishing materials have become even better. But technically the Focus has not changed. It is the restyled versions that are preferable for purchase - most of the congenital diseases in such “Focuses” had already been cured by this time.
As a rule, the inspection of the specimen you like begins with the body. We still greet people based on their clothes. And if Focus doesn't inspire you with its appearance, don't rush to give up. Faded paint, sandblasted sills at the bottom and darkened decorative details on cars with high mileage are, rather, signs of natural aging rather than barbaric use. Particular attention is paid to the chrome trim on the trunk lid: corrosion at the point of contact with the body appears after two or three Russian winters. It costs about 5,000 rubles. At the same time, check the license plate illumination - its wiring succumbs to corrosion quite quickly. Moreover, hatchbacks and sedans suffer from this to a greater extent. Repair - 1500 rub.
In winter, the touch buttons of the trunk lock often freeze due to moisture. In addition, the Focus has had a signature problem since the first generation - a souring hood opening lock. In order for it to open easily, you need to lubricate the inner surface of the emblem covering the lock cylinder. Better yet, replace the standard plastic lock (RUB 3,000) with a metal one from Mondeo. The central locking often fails, causing not only the doors to be blocked, but also the gas tank flap. Therefore, an attempt to refuel with a faulty central locking may be unsuccessful.
The interior of the "Focuses" is assembled carefully and conscientiously. Even with age, squeaks and crickets do not bother him. And fabric upholstery is easy to dry clean and is wear-resistant. True, it happens that interior equipment and electrics are moping. There have been complaints about the failure of seat heating. Moreover, for the original “hot water bottle” you will have to pay about 10,000 rubles. There are known cases of climate control vagaries due to the failure of the cabin temperature sensor (RUB 2,500). Therefore, checking the performance of the air conditioner before purchasing a used Focus is advisable. Also drive the “stove” in different fan modes - the “whistle” of the motor will indicate its imminent demise. The new electric motor will empty your pocket by 7,500 rubles. True, a burnt resistor (900 rubles) can often be the culprit for the sudden “death” of a fan. Low beam and headlight bulbs often burn out, and to replace them you have to remove the headlight unit. And in winter you need to be prepared to replace failed elements of the side mirrors. The new amalgam is estimated at 2000 rubles.
Mechanics praise the basic 1.4-liter engine - it has virtually no congenital problems. The main thing is not to forget on time, every 80 thousand km, to update the timing belt. True, due to its modest volume and power, it is usually “twisted” to the fullest and it works for wear, falling into second hands already at the limit of its resource.
The 1.6-liter engine (100 hp), which was installed on the first Focus, rightfully bears the title of the most widespread and reliable. It accounts for more than a third of all “Focuses” presented on the market today. The South African-assembled motor is intended for use in third world countries. Its simple design determines excellent maintainability and low cost of operation. But many consider this unit to be rather weak for a modern car. Especially paired with an automatic transmission.
Another thing is its 115-horsepower brother, equipped with a variable valve timing system on the intake and exhaust shafts. The engine's thrust is already quite sufficient in all modes, and it gets along much better with an automatic transmission, and in terms of efficiency it is not inferior to the 100-horsepower version. Only this modern motor quickly “runs out” of the phase reflex coupling (RUB 11,500). True, on modernized machines the unit has become more durable.
Modifications with “fours” with a volume of 1.8 and 2.0 liters are second only to versions with a 1.6 liter engine (100 hp). Both engines are identical in design and suffer from common ailments. The service life of the engines is 350 thousand km. And the timing drive has a long-lasting chain, which is usually replaced after 200 thousand km. But in order for the engines to live safely into old age, after the first “hundred” you should pay attention to the valve cover gasket (RUB 1,000), which begins to poison the oil. However, at first you can limit yourself to tightening the bolts that are weakening due to vibrations. And then only replacement. By this time, as a rule, the upper hydraulic engine mount wears out (RUB 3,500).
The unreasonable melancholy of the 1.8-liter engine (it appears less frequently on the 2.0-liter) - poor traction and cold starts, rough idle speeds and increased fuel consumption - was associated with unfinished software of the electronic engine control unit. Therefore, dealers changed its firmware depending on the malfunction, although they were extremely reluctant to take these measures. Ignition coils, high-voltage wires, and fuel pumps are also short-lived. The throttle body and the exhaust gas recirculation valve become dirty quite quickly. Neutralizers (34,000 rubles) do not differ in mileage either, the life expectancy of which depends on engine oil consumption. If the engine's appetite increases to 200 grams per 1000 km, you need to sound the alarm and contact service. Otherwise, expensive repairs are guaranteed.
It is advisable to change the oil in a 1.8 liter turbodiesel every 5–10 thousand km, and refuel only at proven network gas stations. And then the high-pressure fuel pump (HFP) will cross the 200 thousand km mark. Repair - from RUB 30,000. You will have to spend money on new injection nozzles (RUB 12,500 each) and flush the exhaust gas recirculation valve. After 100 thousand km, the dual-mass flywheel wears out. A similar problem, by the way, occurs on the 2.0-liter gasoline engine. If you feel jerking when starting off and a characteristic rattling sound, change it immediately. The part is expensive - from 25,000 rubles, but the consequences of the destruction caused by the flywheel will be even more noticeable.
On a manual IB5 gearbox, after 50–80 thousand km, “departures” of the second gear are known due to weak synchronizers. And when working with an increased load, the pinion axis in the differential may burst, which threatens a hole in the crankcase and repairs costing 100,000 rubles. If during a test drive the box “howls like a beast,” it means the input shaft bearing is worn out. And it urgently needs to be changed. Otherwise, the consequences can be depressing.
But the “mechanics” of the MTX75 are more durable. True, over time, oil seals and gear shift rod seals leak, and due to the low level of transmission oil, the shafts and gear rims quickly wear out. The clutch can last 100 thousand km or more, if not for a weak release bearing, made in a single block with the clutch slave cylinder, which wears out after 50 thousand km.
But the “automatic” is as simple as five kopecks and reliable as a tank. The 4F27E gearbox was installed on various Ford models back in the late 1980s, so today it is almost completely free from childhood diseases. After 150 thousand km, you will only need to repair the valve body (RUB 22,000) and replace the pressure regulator solenoids.
With the driving properties of the Focus II, everything is in perfect order thanks to the exquisitely tuned independent suspension. Its main elements are long-lived. The idyll is broken by the support bearings of the struts, “nursing” on average 40–70 thousand km. Approximately the same amount was allocated to the wheel bearings, which are replaced as an assembly with the hubs. When replacing, do not forget about the ABS sensors - they are often damaged during dismantling. Light knocks in the suspension after 40,000 km will make themselves felt by the stabilizer struts. But the bushings last almost twice as long. At the same time, at 80–110 thousand km, the turn will come to update the ball joints assembled with a lever and silent blocks. And then shock absorbers are on the way (4,200 rubles each).
In the rear suspension, the stabilizer struts are updated every 60–80 thousand km. The bushings last on average one and a half times longer. By “hundred” the lower control arms wear out. Shock absorbers (3,800 rubles each) have a slightly longer lifespan - they often reach 110–140 thousand km.
In the steering system, the rod ends are enough for 50–80 thousand km. And the rack itself on the first cars was even changed under warranty, but by 2008 it became more durable. Moreover, versions with 1.4 and 1.6 liter engines were equipped with a traditional hydraulic booster, and more powerful modifications came with an electro-hydraulic power steering, which can “burn out” the pump control board. Usually you have to change the entire assembly for 28,000 rubles.
Finding a technically serviceable Ford Focus II will not be difficult. If you are not satisfied with modifications with reliable 1.4 and 1.6 liter engines (100 hp), you can find a Focus from Europe with an equally reliable 2.0-liter turbodiesel. True, we have few such versions. And it’s better to opt for post-restyling cars - they have already suffered from childhood diseases.
Ford Focus II (2004–2011): case history
The second generation Ford Focus became a bestseller even before its official sales began. All the promotion work on the Russian market was done for him by his predecessor, who was extremely in demand by our compatriots. And the appearance of the Ford Focus II marked a new, higher quality product - the car was distinguished by high-quality finishing materials, good driving properties and a reasonable price, which was ensured by the Vsevolozhsk assembly. Near St. Petersburg they produced sedans, as well as three- and five-door hatchbacks, while station wagons and coupe-cabriolet hardtops were imported from Europe.
Ford Focus II (2004–2011): case historyIn this article we will try to find out which is better: Ford Focus or Kia Rio. In comparison, we will rely on the characteristics of the last two generations of each of these cars.
Before you start comparing, it should be noted that the machines being compared belong to different classes. Thus, Focus is a typical representative of the C-class, and Rio is positioned as a B+ class sedan. The most compelling argument in favor of interest in such a comparison is, I think, the similar cost. For example, Focus 3 now costs from 707 thousand rubles from official dealers, and the price tag for Rio 2017 model year starts from 669 thousand rubles. The difference, as you can see, is small.
Let's start, as usual, with body dimensions.
Ford Focus 3 has a length of 4.538 m, a width of 1.823 m, a height of 1.468 m, and Focus 2 – 4.481 m / 1.839 m / 1.497 m, respectively. The updated sedan has increased slightly in length, but has become narrower and lower. The size of the database has remained almost unchanged: 2.648 for the new version versus 2.64 for the old one.
The length of the new Kia Rio 2017 is 4.4 m, width is 1.74 m, and height is 1.47 m. The previous generation of the Korean sedan had the following dimensions: length 4.366 m, width 1.72 m, height 1.455 m. As you can see , the fourth generation became longer, slightly wider and taller. In terms of length, the main change is an increase in the wheelbase from 2.57 to 2.6 m.
What do these numbers tell us? Here's what: the length of the latest Focus is almost 25 cm (!) longer than the length of the new Rio. The width of the first is almost 10 cm larger than the second, which is also significant, I think. The height of the Ford is not much larger: only 2 cm, and the length of the base is 4 cm. In principle, with proper layout, even such a small difference can be turned into a big advantage. Next, let's see if the designers were able to implement this. In the meantime, no one gets a point - I don’t see the point in evaluating dry numbers.
Comparing appearance is much more interesting than the size of cars.
Look at Focus. Personally, it seems to me that the latest version (and this is a restyling of the third generation) looks like a remnant.
In my opinion, the restyled Ford Focus 2 looks even more interesting, at least from the front.
In contrast, Rio is much cuter. Look at the latest version: both the bow and stern have a very attractive modern design.
The same can be said about the Kia Rio 3: the creation of Peter Schreyer was to the taste of hundreds of thousands of buyers.
In the battle of exterior designs, the “Korean” definitely wins. The score is 0-1 in his favor.
The Korean car, as evidenced by owner reviews, does not have a high-quality paintwork. This is especially noticeable on hoods - chips and cracks appear quite quickly.
But the bottom, as the automaker claims, is completely galvanized. Therefore, the body warranty is 5 years!
The problem with the “American”, assembled at the plant in Vsevolozhsk near St. Petersburg, is the crooked hands of the assemblers or insufficiently developed assembly technology. Very often, already in five-year-old cars, the rear arches, the junctions of the body with the rear bumper and, sometimes, the trunk lid, begin to rot or rot with all their might.
In theory, the body seems to be galvanized. Why this happens is not exactly clear. I suspect that it is due to the integrity of the paint layer being damaged during assembly.
In addition, there are quite a lot of cars with different gaps between body panels. Well, this is a real jamb. The buyer should be advised to inspect the car more carefully when purchasing.
I think the Focus has more problems with its body, so Rio gets the point again. The score is 0-2.
The interior design of the cars being compared is, as they say, an acquired taste. For example, I prefer the interior of the Ford Focus, both the second and third generations. The second generation is probably even bigger – the design is calm and pleasing to the eye.
Unlike the previous generation, the interior design of the third Focus is somehow expressive, trying to look sporty with all its lines.
In principle, I don’t see anything wrong with this, but in this case, it seems that the designers were not completely able to harmonize their ideas in the material. But oh well. Surely, those who like this style and who do not think much about high matters are in the majority.
Compared to the Ford sedan, the interior of the Kia Rio 4, in my opinion, looks simpler. However, this does not mean that it is unpleasant for the eye. You can feel the difference in classes.
Rio of the previous version was no exception. Everything is fine, maybe even a little interesting, but not as good as a competitor from a higher class.
In general, I like the Focus better in terms of interior design. Points for him. The score is 1-2.
The materials used to decorate the Korean car are of quite high quality for its class. They look soft, but in reality they are hard plastic. Even in the maximum configuration. Only the places where the elbow rests on the door handle are made soft.
The rear of the cabin is always made of cheaper materials. Thus, it becomes clear that the Kia Rio focuses on the front passengers.
Ford Focus receives more expensive interior materials with each update. Currently, high quality soft plastic is used. According to this parameter, this car is definitely ahead. The score was level, 2-2.
The Ford Focus 2 has excellent ergonomics in the front row: there are a ton of adjustments for the front seats, resulting in a comfortable fit for people of almost any height and build, a large number of niches, a huge glove compartment, and a convenient location of the controls. The instruments are readable very well. As an option, at one time, it was possible to get a heated and cooled glove compartment.
Ford Focus 3 lowered the bar a bit. There are a number of complaints regarding the ergonomics of the front row. The seats are very comfortable, the seating position is comfortable, the tidy is excellent - the problem lies elsewhere. There are just some non-critical little things that have not been finalized. For example, in the pre-restyling version, the center console is a kind of “push-button archaism”, which is definitely uncomfortable to use to the touch.
Or, for example, such a solution as a sporty wide dashboard. Due to its unreasonable width, it will interfere with large drivers, putting pressure on the right leg. Inconvenient.
Both the second and third Focus have “humiliation” for rear row passengers. Here you have a door that doesn’t swing wide enough, a low opening, and little space for their feet.
On long trips, only children or small adults will feel comfortable here. By the way, in the second generation there are not even pockets in the rear doors. Keep everything in your pockets, it's called.
In the Kia Rio, the front seats are not as comfortable as those of the “American”; there is no lumbar support, and the seats are short. The seating position is so-so, for short trips – the back and legs get tired. Moreover, it seems that the situation has not changed, because the previous Rio had the same thing.
The glove compartment is very small – just like a “glove box”. But we are pleased with the large number of cup holders and various niches.
The instrument panel is easy to read, no complaints here.
In the new Kia Rio there is not enough rear space for adults, although a little more than in the previous generation model. But such a detail as the height of the tunnel (for the exhaust gas pipe) in the floor is one of the lowest among all competitors. This means there is a little more legroom for rear passengers.
I don’t even know who to call the best in terms of ergonomics. Focuses are definitely more comfortable in front, but Rio is more balanced in terms of attitude towards everyone who gets into the car. Therefore, think for yourself what is more important to you. If you mostly travel in splendid isolation, then you should definitely opt for the first option, and if you are always with your family, then, I think, the second.
Until 2014, the Ford Focus had average quality sound insulation. After restyling, the situation improved significantly - the car received high-quality sound insulation. In comparison, the Kia Rio's noise is generally useless. This becomes especially annoying at speeds above 100 km/h: the main noise comes from the arches, and external treatment with liquid noise-vibration insulation does not help. By the way, an interesting feature: the “Korean” does not have hood soundproofing, even in the maximum configuration. For noise reduction I give a point to the “American”. The score is 3-2.
In the second Focus, the strange hood opening system, which migrated here from its ancestors, is annoying. I wonder what the designers were guided by when they decided that the hood should be opened from the outside with a key? And the fourth Rio has a delicate situation with the trunk, in the case when you have a version with keyless access to the car. The idea, of course, is not bad in itself - to open the trunk automatically if the owner, with full bags in both hands, stands next to the trunk for more than 3 seconds. But in practice, if he stands there just like that, talking, for example, with someone, then the trunk also opens. This is somehow not very correct, I think.
Focus 2 had at its disposal 2 types of transmissions: “mechanics” and the classic “automatic”. For Focus 3, instead of an automatic transmission, the designers offered a robotic PowerShift, which became famous for its unreliability.
Rio was, is, and, I hope, will continue to be equipped, in addition to a manual transmission, with a traditional torque converter automatic transmission. In this regard, Rio is preferable (for me personally, of course). Therefore, a point in favor of the Korean sedan. The score is 3-3.
But the Ford Focus, before and now, has benchmark handling for its class. The Kia Rio, although good, is clearly not up to its level. The first has an energy-intensive suspension that “swallows” everything in its path and, thereby, gives comfort. The second suspension is not energy-intensive enough, this is especially noticeable at high speeds - it is too rigid, as a result of which all impacts are transferred to the body. In this regard, Focus is the best, so it gets a point. The score is 4-3.
Comparing cars of different (even close) classes is not an easy task. I hope you appreciate my efforts . For myself, I decided that if I had a choice of what to buy: a Ford Focus or a Kia Rio, then I would probably take the Rio. Even though he lost on points set by me. I'll explain why. I like the appearance of the Rio better, I’m not particularly picky about the seating position, I often carry rear passengers, the car has a 5-year warranty. You can put up with the rest or choose the car that best suits your needs.
In general, something like this. I hope that with my comparison I have answered most of the questions that arise in your head. At least he didn't create new ones.
06.09.2016
Ford Focus 2 was one of the best-selling golf cars between 2005 and 2008. It was expected from the second generation of Focus that it would be sold in the same quantities as the first generation, and today we can safely say that the developers were right and the car became very popular among car enthusiasts and fully met their expectations. Ford Focus 2 is available in three types body styles - sedan, three and five door hatchback and station wagon. Mostly on the secondary market there are cars of Spanish, German and Russian assembly.
Ford Focus 2 began production in 2005, and almost after the start of sales, the car became one of the leaders in sales due to its reasonable price, high-quality assembly and a large selection of trim levels. In 2008, the manufacturer carried out a restyling, after which the car acquired a more charismatic and modern design. On the secondary market, the second generation of cars can be found in various trim levels, from the basic “Ambiente” to the top-end “Titanium”. In total, buyers were offered five configurations to choose from.
For Ford Focus 2 there were four petrol engines of 1.4 (80 hp), 1.6 (100 hp), 1.8 (125 hp) and 2.0 (145 hp), as well as diesel versions 1.6 (90 and 109 hp), 1.8 (115 hp) and 2.0 (136 hp). The 1.4 power unit is quite rare and only on cars in the basic configuration; most of the cars with such an engine today have practically exhausted their service life, since such cars were mainly bought for taxi fleets. The 1.8 engine can present a lot of negative emotions, the main problem lies in the throttle valve and control unit, because of this the engine may stall and not start the first time, and the idle speed constantly fluctuates. This problem is treated by installing firmware from a two-liter engine. Also, when choosing a car with a 1.8 engine, you need to make sure that it is dry, since it often breaks through the valve cover and cylinder head gaskets.
When operating a car with a gasoline engine, you need to be prepared for high fuel costs. So, for example, a 1.6-liter engine paired with a manual transmission in the city consumes 10 - 11 liters per hundred, and in a two-liter engine with active driving, the consumption can be up to 15 liters per hundred kilometers. Diesel engines demonstrate unpretentious operation, excellent torque and moderate fuel consumption (6 - 8 liters per 100 km), but you must remember that a diesel engine is sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel.
All engines except the 1.4 could be equipped with an automatic transmission or a manual gearbox; with the 1.4 engine, only a manual gearbox was installed. All engines paired with a manual transmission provide a good dynamic ride. Unfortunately, such words cannot be said about the automatic transmission, since it works quite slowly. Both transmissions have a considerable service life and are considered one of the main advantages of the second generation Ford Focus; even cars with a mileage of more than 150,000 km do not cause any particular complaints in this regard.
A manual transmission can present an unpleasant surprise in the form of difficult reverse gear shifting, which is accompanied by a crunching sound. This problem is explained by the lack of synchronizers, so after constant mishandling, the reverse gear begins to fly out. It is this drawback that you should pay attention to when choosing a used Ford Focus 2.
If we talk about the Ford Focus 2 suspension, then first we need to mention that its design is quite unusual, like for a golf car of that time, it has a MacPherson strut in front and a multi-link in the rear. This arrangement gives the car excellent handling and a good ride.
Front suspension parts life:
The rear suspension, if you drive in a big city on a good road and occasionally go onto a country road, will last up to 100 thousand km, and if on bad roads, then the service life will be no more than 70,000 km. And if the rear suspension requires repair, then it is better to do a major overhaul if you do not want to visit a service station once a week.
The interior of the Ford Focus 2 is aesthetic and laconic, and a driver of average height will be able to sit quite comfortably, however, there are many reviews from tall owners (185 cm and above) that there will not be enough legroom, and there will also be little space for a passenger sitting behind the driver. On forums, owners in their reviews claim that over time, many crickets settle in the interior of cars assembled at a Russian factory, and cars imported from Spain or Germany do not have such a drawback. But as domestic operating experience has shown, cars assembled in the European Union actually have higher-quality interior materials, but over time, extraneous sounds appear in them, and the older the car, the more sounds there are.
Ford Focus 2 has a small number of shortcomings, and in terms of value-to-quality ratio, the car remains the most attractive in its class. Most likely, this is why this car is quite in demand on the secondary market to this day. When choosing this used car, you need to be extremely careful, since cars of this brand are used in taxis and rentals, and there they are used mercilessly.
Advantages:
Flaws:
If you are or were the owner of this car brand, please share your experience, indicating the strengths and weaknesses of the car. Perhaps your review will help others correctly.
