Ford Focus 2023 Review

[@carwow]

Would you choose the Focus over a VW Golf? VOTE below!

[@carwow]

VOTE: Focus all the way!

[@okithdesilva129]

No! But I like the Ford Focus! It's an amazing car!

[@carwow]

VOTE: I'll take the Golf!

[@NMSHAFKI]

Hi carwow :)

[@cvhhdfffxhjowkejkxbv]

Just make me win a focus first viewer

[@_-Anthony-_]

I wish you guys still did the "you can fit x amount of carry on suitcases" and then show how it fits in the boot. Was always so useful and easy to know the size of the boot that way. Knowing the capacity in plain volume doesn't hit the same

[@purwantiallan5089]

Add also the 2013 Ford Focus ST on this drag race list.

[@MOJump23]

best ford focus st kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipTddoN8prlqj6s

[@russelllapua4904]

Because it's a pain in the arse to lug around loads of suitcases. You'd have to have more than the space to know what can fit. Now include the staff and the camera equipment, you'd need a transit van to carry everything

[@morganpritchard5632]

@@russelllapua4904 They did a behind the scenes video a few years ago and they had a Transit

[@letsgobrandon5800]

You mean the trunk……

[@aguadoia]

Drag races are fun...no point denying it. But this type of videos are the ones that CARWOW and Matt became an integral part of the car industry. LOve to see them. Thanks!!

[@davidnewbaum6346]

I wish there's a sort of regulation regarding AC/ventilation controls, I find it very distracting to use digital controls instead of physical ones as you can feel the knobs without looking away from the road with them.

[@W_Ivar]

Agreed. Mighty Car Mods made a video of the previous gen Golf vs the latest Golf, where both driver had to change their AC to a specific temperature and direction. The older Golf driver did it in 2s without looking and the latest Golf driver needed almost 10s with looking away from the road a couple of times.

[@N1ckZ]

yes there should be a regualtion to prevent car makers from ever using buttons for climate controlls ever again, to annoy A/C control enthusiasts as well as the ones so incompetent that cant press a virtual button such as yourself.

[@JetsetDruid]

When the percentage of accidents blamed on touch controls starts going up we'll see the regulation come in

[@heinzketchup4558]

Hence why i‘ so glad that Mazda kept touch-nonsense on the down low. It still has a old BMW/Audi style control knob together with physical buttons and all in addition to the touchscreen which i end up never using anyways.

[@user-um3cp9es3k]

I agree. It's unfortunate that there's all these annoying regulations around things like noise, but nothing around the buttons

[@mustiosrs]

Have had mine for about half a year now, here's some remarks: - The "turbo lag zone" is very much a thing. You ditch your momentum for whatever reason and head all the way down to 2nd or 3rd and you can hear the engine having a hard time coming up to speed. I usually just go back to 3rd and slooowly let it rev back up - it's fine once you get used to it but you have to take it into account - The AC controls being on the screen is dumb. With analog controls you can reliably keep an eye on the road whilst changing it. Having to make a guess of where the control you're looking for is on the screen and then having to fumble with the slider to get the temp juuust right is a major distraction whilst on the road without a copilot. - The infotainment has a way of acting up. Sometimes it just refuses to connect to my iPhone X. I have an iPhone 11 now and it's been connecting reliably but I've had it ditch the connection once or twice. - On the topic of phones, the wireless charging bank absolutely fried both my phones to the point of overheating and becoming irresponsive. I use a charging cable and put my phone in the cup holder vertically and using the adjustable thingies to put it in place. - The collision alerts also have a way of acting up. Once I was at a red light and it went off for no apparent reason. Another time it went off because of leaves flowing in the wind. It's very sporadic, not enough to be problematic but it does catch you offguard everytime it does it. + The cargo capacity is amazing. + I just came back from a roadtrip through the mountains in Belgium and I now appreciate how well this car handles in curves. I felt so confident in how the car drives I've even let a friend drive it through the mountain roads and she was amazed aswell. + General comfort - engine sound is quiet when inside, seats are good, suspension is decent value for what you're paying, enough space everywhere, ...

[@FefyGT]

@@mustiosrs I generally agree, but I don't find the seats to be comfortable enough for the type of car. When the engine is slow to gain rpm is not turbo lag it is lack of power, the Focus needs at least 200hp.

[@AccidentalGenius158]

You can get the ST model it definitely has more than 200​@@FefyGT

[@jonathantaylor1998]

Great verdict, Mat - anything that entices people to stop buying resource-wasteful, inefficient SUVs is a good result in my eyes 👍

[@boydsterling3193]

Had a pre-facelift one of these, it was a fabulous car, incredible handling for what it was, very comfortable and well put together

[@Brukers3]

I have a pre-facelift with the 1.5l Ecoboost engine (the same of the Fiesta ST) with 150hp. It's the perfect engine for this car, it has plenty of torque just from 1500rpm and it's punchy until 5500. It's a real shame Ford discontinued that engine.

[@khelgarironfist3301]

@@Brukers3 i would also go for the pre-facelift just for this engine. Shame they don't offer it with Focus anymore even though they offer this engine with some other models. Another thing is, the auto gearbox is a torque convertor one instead of the dual-clutch powershift in the facelift. Lastly, i don't like the new ugly and huge screen that gobbled up all the buttons. All in all, the facelift is a downgrade imo lol. Active mk4 seems to be a pretty good package.

[@autobahnproven]

@@khelgarironfist3301 Agreed on the Powershift transmission; it's so bad, the industry refers to it without the 'f'.

[@jasonkillsformomy]

@@Brukers3 The 1.5L Ecoboost is POS engine,

[@Brukers3]

@@jasonkillsformomy Why you say that?

[@ZvonX7]

Two small corrections Matt :) 1) It has a guide for the rear seatbelts, you can see it at 7:57-8:00 and 8:05-8:07. 2) There is a button for LKA on the stork for the prefacelift model as well. I know because I am driving it.

[@Sellerieknolle76]

The adjustable cupholder isn't new as well. And I'm pretty sure I had the same wheels on my 2019 Focus ST-Line.

[@Danoots]

and the automation gear shift pictured is incorrect, the 7 speed looks like the old powershift one instead of the rotary dial on the 8 speed.

[@limericklad2000]

It’s a stalk. A stork is a large skinny legged bird.

[@ZvonX7]

@@limericklad2000 I stand corrected

[@dannyseville2543]

As soon as he said about the lka button I came to the comment's haha. It did take me a few months to find that button and over a year for the driv9ng mode button and I found that by accident trying to turn off auto brake hold.

[@lamarandson5636]

I really wish they still sold the focus and fiesta in America. The new generations look great.

[@SirMerv]

Same 😔

[@londonas2]

They won’t sell any of them anywhere soon

[@stickshifter8]

Agree, such a loss for our market…

[@mau9175]

Indeed. Unfortunately these aren't sold here in Brazil as well, which is a shame. BUT, to be honest, the previous version got shadowed by its transmission issues (DPS6 PowerShift) and maybe americans wouldn't trust the car no more, besides the fact the new Focus are developed and manufactured in China if i'm not mistaken, and we know americans doesn't like chinese cars.

[@Set_The_Controls]

I have the 2020 focus st and absolutely love it. Drives so well

[@adamroutley]

Previous version has lane assist on stalk button. Driving mode select by cycling the button. Rear camera does indeed get filthy, it's completely useless in winter. The most annoying issue though, is all the warning prompts you have to clear every single time you start the car. There's currently 7 on mine when I start it each time.

[@jjharson7344]

agreed I just went from a 2019 Focus Titanium X to a 2023 Kuga ST Line - the warnings are getting worse.... like the rear seat warning, lane assists, pre-collision assist, seatbelt warnings, passenger warnings, tailgate warnings, override on the hybrid, thats 8 warnings to clear on a normal day, if its cold I get more... not to mention the engine mode selections and power mode selections, It takes a good few minutes for the car to settle down, so you can actually drive the god-damn thing properly.... and yes I am a Ford fan. I also agree in regards to the rear camera, pointless on a rainy day.... I drove the new Focus and it's down on power from the previous model too..... I might leave Ford again for this very reason on my next upgrade. I actually prefer the 2018/19/20 model Focus over the new one. I am very disappointed with the new models interfaces. what happened to the days of just getting in the vehicle turning the key and putting your foot down..? ha ha..

[@LMAO2510]

Wash the car then Adam?

[@edipires15]

9:09 The lane keeping assist button was always on that stalk, you’ve just missed it on all of your Ford reviews 😂

[@Frodokeuh]

i was wondering too it's the same but i rarely use it i almost crash a few times when the lane keeping assist was active lol

[@deinemutter3575]

Nice Video. I like the look of the "new" focus. Especially the new backlights. I own a 2016 Focus ST wagon and I'm very happy with it. I drove 60k km in the last 3 years and had not a single issue with it.

[@jameslentsoane9037]

I will definitely go ahead and BUY IT!. Great car. It's a shame it is no longer available in South Africa, and so is the young sibling Ford Fiesta.😔😪

[@tylerhanley1409]

i have no idea why anyone would pick a ford puma over one of these; this is prettier, more practical, drives better and is cheaper! literally why does anyone buy a puma???

[@cy9nvs]

As a Pre-Facelift Focus ST owner, I gotta say I like the new front quite a bit more than the old one. Though while I think the prefacelift mk3 was hideous, with the 4th gen both looks really good in their own way. Also love the new rear lights, I'll be getting those for mine soon.

[@madern7]

No st in the facelift?

[@thatfocusguy]

I’ve just changed my pre facelift ST for a facelift one.

[@mihnealazar7039]

I’m with you on this one, I agree

[@iangillett2488]

@@thatfocusguy Just replaced my Fiesta ST3, with the latest ST version, in the same fantastic red colour. Did take 10 months to arrive, but worth the wait. Impressed so far.

[@iangillett2488]

@@madern7 I have one, so yes available 😉

[@snbala]

I still own the very first MK1 Focus, excellent car that is cheap to run and fun to drive. I looked into a MK4 (this generation) and things looked cheap inside and I wasn’t sold on the looks of it. It’s a shame the Focus is going soon but it’s just the market with the horrible SUVs at the moment. The Focus will always be remembered though, especially the first generation.

[@tomteunissen]

I've had the honor of owning a MK1 too, the facelifted one with the 2.0l and 131hp. It was my first car and it was a blast to drive. It left me 1,5 years ago.. Its cylinders have been laid to rest. SUV's are killing the great, sporty and affordable hatchback segment and it's just sad to see it happening. I remember just a couple of years ago, SUVs were cars for old people and I still see them that way :')

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@tomteunissen the 1999 and 2013 Ford Focuses are still way better than 2023 Focus.

[@massimolettuce]

@@tomteunissen It is very sad indeed, but not only is it annoying that SUVs are taking over, but instead what the market has had to do. Look at the Ford Puma, Seat Arona, VW T-Cross or even the Toyota Aygo-X... None of them are actual SUVs! They are just raised hatchbacks that try really hard to become SUVs but eventually fail at being an SUV. Even further annoying is the fact that an SUV in the early 2000s was no other than a less capable off-roader (usually a 4WD) and now they're FWD crap that will get no one nowhere through unpaved roads. The automotive industry is in decay, but the SUV fever is just starting. 😔

[@ewaf88]

@@tomteunissen My girlfriend had a new Ghia version back in 1999. She put me on her company insurance so I could drive it My goodness the difference between her Focus and my Citroen Xsara. The Focus was incredible and I immediately felt jealous.

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

Ford hit a home run with the mk 1. Great car.

[@johanstjern4118]

Yes! They still offer analog dials in lower trims!

[@AlymerKiteboy]

I'm on my fourth Focus, a 2016 SE and would buy another without hesitation. Unfortunately living in Canada that's no longer an option because Ford sadly no longer offers it here. 😔 A couple of things you missed in this review: You mentioned the rear seatbelt getting caught in the latch when returning the rear seat to its upright position, true, but clearly visible as you are telling us this is the plastic "parking spot" clip for the seatbelt to stop this from happening! 😉 Also you forgot to mention that you can flip the rear seat bottoms forward before lowering the rear seat backs and get a completely flat load floor. I go one step further than this and remove the rear seat bottoms completely, 4 torx bolts, and have a completely flat load floor for sports gear all the time without the inconvenience of the flipped up seat bottoms restricting front seat position and taking up the rear footwell space. Great review that makes me angry at Ford... I have no interest in any of their current North American offerings. 🙄 Bye bye Ford, hello Kia!

[@CherryGS]

On the MK4 you can't flip the bottom part of the rear seats, this was only possible on the MK3 and older models.

[@Hellndegenerates]

I've got a mk3.5 st diesel, with a stage 3 from Pumaspeed, 278 bhp 480nm, 47 mpg around town 62 mpg on a long run, and the handling on AP coilovers is amazing.

[@pavolmalovec37]

that seatbelt issue is a common "sickness" of all Focuses 😀 had 2nd gen now I have 3rd gen and its the same as you have shown

[@rynexl5646]

it is the same for 1st gen too.

[@DeGlennen]

My mk3.5 Focus also has that same issue. But for some reason my old Mk6 Fiesta didn't have any problem with that: That car had a special slot in the plastics next to the rear window; where you could put the seatbelt clasp.

[@nickidean3877]

@@DeGlennen My mk3.5 has those exact plastics in it. Wonder if it's a trim thing, or maybe an option pack that was selected?

[@DeGlennen]

​@@nickidean3877 My ST-line mk3.5 has those small plastic guides to stop the rear seatbelt from snagging. But I find those not to work at all. The system I mentioned on the mk6 Fiesta is way better. (that was a 3dr car though)

[@jaissenkalandaramen3715]

Would be great if you started doing a night time drive too to see the full effect of the lights

[@DRB3055]

The LED lights even on the base model are very good, huge step up if you're coming from halogens. The base model doesn't have auto dip but some people would prefer that anyway, I'm not sure about higher trim levels.

[@robinhosleftfoot]

@@DRB3055 how do they compare to Xenons on 2007 r56 MINI?

[@DRB3055]

@@robinhosleftfoot I don't know for that model, my only experience of xenons is a 2011 7 series and all the led lights on various cars have been much better.

[@markwilliams1172]

I agree ...... the cornering lights are a nice addition for the tight corners

[@gravemind6536]

@@robinhosleftfoot They will make the Xenons look dim especially on a car that age. Pretty much any oem LED set up will be better.

[@mattinsydney3236]

Love the focus, I’ve owned two. The car doesn’t get as much credibility as is due. When it came out in 1998, it was so far above anything else on the market AND average Brits could afford to put fuel in it!

[@MichaelBosley]

@@paulmh4048 The first Focus was radical when it came out. Ford used to push boundaries with new models. Their whole design language is so bland now, like it was designed by executives. Same with the new Fiesta.

[@Spasm975]

I agree, in Poland, Ford is very underrated - Ford is known here as a poor unreliable car for some reason (pretty much equal to Fiat/Renault/Citroen). Of course Ford had some fails with other models eg. B-Max C-Max S-Max etc. But I actually love Ford a lot, I had 93' fiesta which never failed through 10 years, now I've got 05' focus which never failed for 6 years. But I've got to agree that Ford lost his soul, design after second/third generation of Focus - it doesn't have it's character, it's bland, it's more like Kia/Hyundai like. I love mk2 focus ST/RS design, mk3 RS is okay, but mk4 is like any other car (more Kia/Hyundai like). From the new generation Ford cars I like Puma and Mustang only. I also miss fact that every Ford engine novadays is same Ecoboost or Diesel without any character. In the past they used to put some powerful iconic engines like V6 or Volvo's inline 5. It's sad that in 10 years all those focus/fiesta models would be just some regular civilized cars without anything special. Where mk2 ST/RS will still be iconic as those sound incredible and when tuned can easily make 600hp+.

[@donkeysunited]

@@MichaelBosley Wasn't the first Focus one of the first cars to have high brake lights? It was the first car I owned, great fun to drive on bendy secondary roads (I had a 1.6L).

[@chrishart8548]

@@donkeysunited didn't the volvo 850 have lights up the sides of the rear window.

[@donkeysunited]

@@chrishart8548 Probably. I'm not hugely aware of other cars. But I also don't know how common the 850 was. I just remember feeling that having the rear light clusters so high up made them much more visible especially through car windows in traffic, and that that was a good thing.

[@J0n0tanII]

Sad that we don't get the Focus at all in Australia anymore. I drive the 2020 ST-Line estate and it's the best car I've had.

[@artureff3046]

and we dont get ute anymore....

[@johnneill9740]

The class action launched against Ford in Australia over the PowerShi*t transmission issues may have had something to do with it....

[@juiicer]

​@@johnneill9740 Ford transmissions have always been shady. I have an LZ Focus ST and the 6speed in it is the same one in base a model Focus and Mazda3. Basically made of glass.

[@sjb2471]

@@johnneill9740 very little to do with it at all, people have short memories. Everyone here still buys VWs by the truckload and on top of dieselgate, they had exactly the same issues with their early dual clutch autos and were ordered by the regulators to fix them and fined. This class of car is just of little interest to Australians in 2022, and Ford Australia have long poorly marketed their smaller, non-crossover cars, one might also think by design. Supply out of Europe was the final mail in the coffin.

[@sjb2471]

IKR - I picked up a new ST last week, which is possibly the last of them available here (a cancelled order I accidentally found, so happy!). It SO fun, and so capable to drive. My partner drives a Golf 8 GTi and yep, it’s clearly better finished (yet feels less “solid”), but it’s clear that VW make cars for posers, and Ford (of Europe) make cars for drivers. It’s night and day more engaging to drive.

[@michelenardo1221]

I'm from Italy, and I own a MK8 Fiesta MHEV 125hp. It's a smaller car but the car is pretty economical in my view. for a petrol. When I'm in a rush I avarage 19.5 km/l, but once I managed to do 23.3 km/l, while going to the mountains, which is insane.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

God for you

[@michelenardo1221]

@@sharonbraselton3135 just saying it’s a great engine

[@piprobinson6575]

What happened to just being able to jump in a car and just drive, no faffing about with driving modes. This doesn't seem too bad , but most hot hatches are dreadful and they don't seem to have a memory so you have to start all over again each time you get in. This Focus seems to be a thoroughly rounded family car, great review 👍😊

[@danielainger]

Not a hot hatch though standard focus

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@danielainger yep. But at least the car did its job done.

[@danielainger]

@@purwantiallan5089 I agree great car

[@jameshedges3857]

You don't have to mess with driving modes. You can just leave it alone

[@joelbrown2782]

I like the updated design and like diamond cut alloys, the ones on the car that Mat is testing are nice.

[@nishanth970]

Ik this off topic, but rest in peace ford Fiesta

[@purwantiallan5089]

Wish Ford Fiesta is ressurected.

[@TheSuperBoyProject]

No one cares

[@LondonsFinestGamingCrew]

I’ve got a 22 plate ST line and I absolutely love it

[@israelkeyzer9617]

I love this thing! Such a shame they stopped selling it in the USA, it looks like a great car for maybe a road trip, or for someone in college to drive. However, I wish that they could come back with the Focus RS. If someone can ls7 swap a Brz ( I Think, if not a car very similar in size) they can put a v6 in there and make it super fast!

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Chuec wats hibrde. 4 or v6 Jude 4 kw batery

[@khelgarironfist3301]

Now they will stop selling it in the rest of the world too, which is getting muricanized with all the fat SUVs apparently.

[@stickshifter8]

Agree. Such a missed opportunity. Just look at the demand for the GR Corolla and Civic R in the US. These models sell 100% of their production and became unobtainable. That makes me think that a new Focus RS would be a great success in this country.

[@sebbach3747]

You live in the USA. Mustangs are cheap there. Why would you look at a focus?

[@neilmurphy845]

​@@khelgarironfist3301ya it'll be harder for the people learning to drive now Because the fiesta and focus were so good for that job

[@carsreports]

Countryside roads, ST-Line X suspensions and tires and sport mode on it’s quite fun to drive it. Only reason I’m happy to go to work really 😂😂

[@scottm9617]

I’d advise everyone to get the Estate. The estate version feels just as nippy, but you have the roof rails as standard, a massive boot, extra power sockets, automatic tailgate. I’ve got a roof-tent on mine too all with the 1.0 125bhp 3 cylinder petrol and it works fine. I’m getting 42mpg. I’m 26 and it’s only £250 per year to insure fully comp.

[@KA6ED]

£250 per year? How u manage that?

[@MrPikkoz]

@@KA6ED partially post code lottery, I'm afraid.

[@MrBazinger]

@@KA6ED I can vouch for the cheap insurance, I'm older at 45, but my ST-Line X only costs me £160 a year to insure.

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

The estate actually looks nicer too

[@KA6ED]

@@MrBazinger I’ve only driven old cars. My last car was a 2005 Astra and insurance was £70 per month and I was 38 at the time. Is it so cheap for you guys because you have new cars?

[@xtys9606]

This is what we're talking about a good old typical daily car you see in the UK How's about a video of the facelifted Focus ST next?

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Wing Miami vice c e farti

[@JJJJJ269]

Disappointed Matt didn’t throw the boot cover!

[@TrumpWinner]

Yeh I was waiting for that too 😂

[@Godzukidan]

I wish Ford would sell them in the USA. They would sell very well.

[@keithronson2624]

The Focus is a forgotten gem! Handling and size. Would make far more sense for many than a ''pretend'' SUV... even better than stable mate Puma. Will be a sad day when the Focus is no more.

[@jameshedges3857]

Completely agree. Although the puma is actually the stable mate of the fiesta not the focus. The puma is just a fiesta on stilts in the same was a kuga is a focus on stilts

[@TLGElectro]

Do Fords come with door seal trims hanging out of them as standard, or is that an optional extra?

[@razzyrascal7961]

I had this on my 18 plate STLine so can't argue with that! However, it took 30 secs to fix with some double sided tape. Only issue I ever had in 4 years too. Best car i ever owned.

[@jjharson7344]

same - I used loctite super glue gel on my 2019 model, never an issue since, they are great cars, the handling is superb.

[@cactus3796]

8:30 matt why didnt you throw the load cover?! its your signature move haha

[@MrFlazz99]

My father (late 70s) is on his second Focus (67-plate ST Line), but not a gadget fan. I suspect that the march of gadgetry may frustrate him if he goes for another one - he's itching to get a newer car just for the sake of it, but I'm telling him to stick with what he's got (which will last for ever with his mileages). Call me a stick in the mud, but even I in my 50s feel left behind. No CD player means no-go for me, no matter what the car.

[@pscotXRPking]

Bought 1 brand new in 19 . 1 litre eco boost . Great car . Fun to drive. Never given me an once of hassle

[@andrewdrewdrew1637]

and yours has physical climate control buttons. These new digital ones are pure crap

[@ant2312]

@@andrewdrewdrew1637 don't care

[@andrewdrewdrew1637]

@@ant2312" i love it"

[@Dara-jz9hl]

Eco boom they call it

[@BomberFletch31]

I would absolutely buy a Focus if I lived in the UK. Trouble is, here in Australia, we only get the ST. Not everyone wants a harsh riding hot hatch. I've driven the ST-Line before (back when Ford did offer the entire range here) and I thought the ride was a bit firm, never mind the ST. It's a real shame because the Focus is just such a brilliant car. I want one, but I can't get the spec that I want in Australia (Titanium X with a manual gearbox, please).

[@allanroberts2483]

Had an ST line in Australia and did not find the suspension harsh at all. Loved the 8 speed auto torque converter and the feisty 3 cylinder turbo.Never has a problem with the car A great car under represented by Ford Australia.

[@MartyGry]

I’ve got the ‘20 1.0l 155hp version and I love it. This facelifted version looks bonkers too, especially the front, but one thing that buggers me the most is that the rear indicators and brakelights are still made with incandescent bulbs, while competitors like the new Renault Megane and Vauxhall Astra have got full led tail lights (the Megane even has dynamic turn signals!) So that’s a bit disappointing. Other than that it’s a beaut. Love the red also!

[@Hazmatx220]

bonkers? xD

[@MartyGry]

@@Hazmatx220 haha yeah I know, little bit exaggerated, it just looks good xD

[@andy.higgins]

@@Finkelkaas Does the mild hybrid have a wet belt? I went in to the dealer to look at a 155 petrol - ended up driving off with a diesel ST.

[@baileybunnies5151]

@@andy.higgins No it’s a chain cam now

[@James_08_07]

7:10 this is one of those... "did they seriously never ask anyone to open the rear door?" moments

[@JimmyThomasjtpro14]

Forget the focus… check out that Alfa Romeo 145 at 10:34 on the left 🤤 such a rare car to find in UK!

[@wykisz]

I wish you guys started adding the name of the car in the title again

[@alessandro_lon]

@@altern8tive lol

[@Manoah.]

I think the Focus is definitely one of the best hatchbacks/wagons you can buy. Although reliability does sometimes leave some question marks (I used to work at a Ford dealership, the 1.0 Ecoboost do tend to break their crankshaft after 150k miles especially when chiptuned) I think interior quality and practicality is pretty good and they're absolutely lovely to drive. I never mind working on those although for regulair oil changes I have to take out 17(!) screws before I can take off the undertray.... Butt overall, great cars and I'd definitely recommend one to someone looking for a new car

[@klaajt3141]

I was considering buying a 2019 Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost ST , do you think its reliable? It has around 25k miles one it. I have heard that the 1.0 Ecoboost has alot of distribution belt problems.. any advice?

[@Manoah.]

@@klaajt3141 Yes they have timing belt problems. Because they have a 'wet belt' meaning the rubber belt is inside the oil pan. Which after a while makes the rubber go bad, and fall apart. Rubber bits will then end up in the oil causing oil passages to block...... But when you change the timing belt more often than Ford adviced you won't really face any big problems. Although for some reason all Ecoboosts like to eat their spark plugs, they crack sometimes causing a misfire

[@klaajt3141]

@@Manoah. how often would you change the belt? Or specifically when?

[@Manoah.]

@@klaajt3141 Ford says every 10 years/ 150k miles but I'd recommend every 5-6 years and no more than 80k miles

[@FefyGT]

Engine is quite reliable, but do not tune it, it already has the power to piston surface ratio of a formula 1 engine.

[@michaelbaldwin5953]

I've got the older st line x with the 1.5 ltr 182bhp, bought it in 2018.Think i'll keep it based on this review.Can get 50 MPG on a run in eco mode on say the motorway , but doesn't half go in sports mode, although the fuel consumption drops.Gearbox on the 1.5 is really good.Not like the 1ltr engine gearbox in this....why the F*uck did they drop the Fiesta ST 3 cylinder engine ?

[@donkey1271]

Efficiency that’s why, they have increasingly stringent targets to meet

[@arhitectura.din.România]

Becouse they are stupid?

[@simonk8889]

I love this car, just got it myself in magnetic color and wagon version.

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

It's still a fantastic car.

[@Spunksock]

I was put off the older focuses because if you paid close attention you'll see 95% of them with door seal rubbers hanging out of the doors just seems like poor build quality it was actually shocking.

[@ShonuAlonsus]

Haha, mine had exactly that on a 2019 plate. Eventually it stuck back

[@SurgeDashcam]

I have a MK3.5 Focus. All 4 of my door rubbers came loose. I had to stick them all back down with adhesive tape. Otherwise, nothing too bad build quality wise.

[@Spunksock]

@@SurgeDashcam I've got a mk5 Mondeo fords are good cars mate

[@T.E.S.S.]

wow sounds like you did exhaustive, detailed research

[@jjharson7344]

easily remedied that to be fair, my 2019 Focus had that happen, I used some loctite on it and they have held perfectly ever since. the rest of the car is really solid having had it for over 3 years now, I got the diesel version and its quicker than the standard petrol versions by a fair margin, it launches from the lights really quick, 0 - 60 is more like 7.5 seconds on the 1.5 turbo diesel. and I have to agree with Matt, it's fantastic in corners, you can't help but pull up on most cars in corners due to it's great handling.

[@TheBIOSStar]

A lot of the changes like the lane assist button have been there since the 2020 refresh, but great review as always!

[@MichaelTheGamer10]

My 2017 mk8 Fiesta has the Lane assist button on the end of the stalk. Was quite surprised the focus didn’t when it was released in 2018?

[@LloydP25]

My 68 plate Focus has lane keeping assist button also, so it has been around since the Mk4 started being manufactured.

[@SurgeDashcam]

My 2016 Mk3 focus also has the lane keep assist button, so it has been around for a while.

[@Bertha076]

By far the best in its segment.

[@massimolettuce]

I'd say the Seat/Cupra Leon is the only fair competitor to this car.

[@andreiuta5114]

Mazda 3?

[@stoicapetruliviu8840]

🤣. Ceed'Kia/Hyundai killed Ford in Europe.

[@Bertha076]

@@stoicapetruliviu8840 You clearly never drove a Ford focus before.

[@stoicapetruliviu8840]

@@Bertha076 surely did. And all fiestas from 2004 till 2020. Focus 2016 hatch/break. Best fiesta was MK5

[@Oldladysgin]

With a Focus it's the handling, so good. It makes the car.

[@jcarter3562]

The inbuilt sync 4 navigation system with real time updates is excellent, its all there on a nice big screen. I can't understand why you would want to use apple car play/android auto to obtain your sat nav. Also I personally find the inbuilt ventilation controls to be no worse than having to use physical dials and buttons, and as mentioned elsewhere you can use voice commands if you so wish to change the settings. Having those controls built in makes for a very simplistic uncluttered looking cabin which is much more pleasing on the eye.

[@WKogut]

I'm usually not a fan of small cars but focus looks gorgeous

[@JoeCrawford95]

Lane keep assist button has always been there

[@lucasrustt]

it actually looks really good

[@shinobi-zensei]

I hate that we don’t get this in the US anymore. It looks fantastic!

[@eclipsegfxable]

You guys get so many other great cars compared to the UK

[@karimtemri1664]

@@eclipsegfxable they are great to look at but not really nimble

[@silkyblack5880]

@@karimtemri1664 far from the truth. modern suspension designs along with great FR/FMR balance goes great, regardless of weight. Yes, I'm looking at you Ford Mustang GT500 and Corvette C7 ZR1.

[@karimtemri1664]

​@@silkyblack5880 hum hum we also get the Ford Mustang. You're probably right ✅

[@aykutonturk9923]

I drove 19 reg 1.5 ST Line diesel for 5 years and after reviewing the new model, it seems like the only significant changes are the addition of fancy screens. I ve done 120K on mine and to be honest it was OK. It is not the most comfortable and loaded Ford but I haven't encountered any major problems except for an issue with the clutch. The car averaged 53 miles per gallon, which I found to be quite efficient. Additionally, it provided enough power for my daily driving needs.

[@andrewbarlow1707]

I have a 23 plate ST line vignali and i love it! I normally keep cars until the first MOT, but i will be keeping this for much longer

[@-Grifter]

I love carwow and especially Matt. I will always click and watch almost every video of his but I do question the click bait title of this one. Best ever! “ You need this Car!” Then, shortlist it! Ha.

[@whatonearthisthis.]

Thanks for reviewing cars that we can actually afford, Matt!!

[@MOJump23]

best ford focus st kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipTddoN8prlqj6s

[@shahir10]

Mat really sounded like he couldn't be bothered to be there for this one 😂

[@Kefford666]

I love those brake lights. Saw some on a Puma yesterday and they just look so nice

[@twiggyzappa]

Did they finally fix the auto transmission?!

[@RealLaone]

These are fun to drive, the ones before this one also looked better though

[@Tibchy91]

Never had a Ford before, but I have to say, this looks pretty damn good.

[@gamesmaster1060]

I have a fiesta 2013 and its super fun to drive

[@sibghatullah1117]

@M K I actually have the Ford focus ST line X 2021 which i feel is actually a tad better as it's virtually identical but has a manual blower instead of one of touch screen! And I prefer the ford label not being on the grill.... But otherwise a beautiful car to drive

[@okithdesilva129]

A Ford review after a long and long time! I waited for a Ford review!

[@rasherbasher8203]

Say the same about every car review🤔

[@rasherbasher8203]

After a long and long time... wtf.... that makes no sense

[@PLively]

Rear seat belt guides: I've had the last two Fiestas since 2015. There are guides, that are normally hidden when the seat back is upright, but I only found out a couple of weeks ago. - it isn't obvious The Focus has the same thing. At 7:56 take a look to the left of the red seat catch on the C pillar. Looks like the same "blades" of plastic . You can put the belt through these.

[@mark_graham]

Owned the car for 4 years, but over 3 years, I spent £4.5k on repairs on a Used Approved Golf mk7 GTD (not including main dealer servicing, timing belt / water pump etc..). Currently have a Used Approved mk7 GTI Performance, which has already been back to dealer for +/- £1200 worth of warranty work. Highly likely will go to Ford next time round.

[@Daytripper58]

I have the 2015 focus hatchback here in the states. 2 litre 160 hp. Never been in the shop. Zero problems.

[@KTLam]

I have a ST-line from 2019 with the I-3 1.5L Ecoboost - 134 kW. The refinement of this engine compared to the 1.0L is so much better and a turbolag is almost non-existent. Fuel economy is quite good. Such a shame Ford phased out the 1.5 from 2020 and on. Glad I have this excellent engine before it was gone. If they only had it combined with the mild hybrid, it would have been a good combination. Also, the lane keeping assistant button was already there on the pre-facelift. So that's not new and better than much cars.

[@sm_flys]

I really wish we had this in the States. ☹️

[@purwantiallan5089]

Or even in ASEAN countries.

[@joshuahalla.k.a.controlla6333]

Great video. ☺️ Edit: I used the 2020 version of the Ford Focus ST for my driving lessons and driving test and it was so nice to drive.

[@kayahall7835]

U were using the ST-line. An instructor isn't gonna teach students in a 280bhp ST. And I can confirm as I've seen a few driving instructor cars with advertising and stuff on them. But ur right tho, amazing car to drive I actually own one myself🤣

[@joshuahalla.k.a.controlla6333]

@@kayahall7835 He got the 1.5 liter Diesel version late 2020. It was mad fast.

[@joshuahalla.k.a.controlla6333]

@@kayahall7835 The KZbinr KSI'S old Lambhorgini Aventador was turned into a learners car for a few months before being sold again. You'll be surprised what they teach u in nowadays.

[@kayahall7835]

@Joshua Hall a.k.a. Controlla Exact one I've got except 2021. It moves for sure 🤣

[@joshuahalla.k.a.controlla6333]

@@kayahall7835 When he first got it, I was driving in normal mode at 50mph and without pressing harder the car jumped to 70mph within a few seconds when he put it in race mode for a short section 😂

[@20yearsagotoday1]

I’m driving a 67 plate Titanium X, 2ltr diesel and get 60mpg. The lane keeping is on my stalk too, and I’ve got adjustable cup holders and invisible door protectors. The car also has blind spot indicators, subwoofer sound system, heated seats and steering wheel, park assist, Apple car play, 2nd programmable key, auto main beam, lights that steer when going round corners, city stop, lane departure warning, interior led lighting that you can change colour, heated front screen and door mirrors, speed limiter, rain sensing wipers and leather seats. All for £23k brand new at the time from a main dealer. It’s scary to see how much they’ve increased in price. I’m definitely keeping my diesel until it dies, or until the gov stop me driving it! An equivalent EV spec’d car would cost me an absolute fortune.

[@jagszz]

Great video..... still trying to figure out how to use the subwoofer

[@Ozinchanel]

Good Looking Car

[@nestlevel351]

I love the design of the car

[@purwantiallan5089]

The design of the 2023 Focus seemingly top level.

[@MOJump23]

best ford focus st kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipTddoN8prlqj6s

[@just_juice]

Wow 😳, the new Ford I30N looks really good

[@xIcarus227]

I think Hyundai stole so many design ideas from so many brands you peeps forgot who came with said ideas originally. The i30 always tried to look like a Focus, and now Hyundai's borrowing from Audi hard - just like Genesis is borrowing from Bentley. You can say many good things about Hyundai, but originality isn't one of them.

[@Johnny24rs]

@@xIcarus227 I totally agree.

[@theaaa01]

@@xIcarus227 It’s true that the latest model of Ford Focus look like Hyundai i30 which came out earlier. So Ford also stole Hyundai’s design

[@richardgp5691]

Looks nothing like the i30n haha.

[@xIcarus227]

@@theaaa01 this facelift is an evolution of the MK4, so they didn't steal anything 🤦‍♂

[@marktroughton1064]

Love the side profile. 🎉

[@justinedzard]

I still drive my '06 Focus, and I still can't get enough of the chunky rear end, that part of the design is what sold me on the Focus in the first place.

[@jyfs91]

Not often to hear Matt sound so unenthusiastic, regardless of the car. Changes the vibe of the whole video. Hope everything is okay Matt!

[@adrianbalea2396]

You can get the Focus ST with a 2.3L Turbo petrol engine too! The new tail lights look like an inspiration from BMW X5 to me 🤭 The focus is a very good car for UK roads. Nice suspension, not to big for the tight parking spaces etc.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

BMW x5 hybred

[@sushi777300]

It needs a little sibling. They could name it Fiesta 🤔 Sounds like a good idea, right?

[@SDADanCars]

It is great ! After i did the Test Drive i was thinking about it a few days :)

[@thecarguru4741]

Is there any boot bigger than a Skoda Octavia in this class of cars ?!? ☺

[@Jusbaus]

I just received my 155 hp st-line hatchback and it does not have the multilink rear suspension but the "worse" torsion beam. So no different to the other trims. And the turning circle is better with 17 inch alloys. I believe the 18 inch are also wider and thus require turning limiters so they don't scruff the arches.

[@kayahall7835]

This the face lift one? Cos I've got the diesel st line and it has rear springs not torsion bar

[@Jusbaus]

@@kayahall7835 it's the facelift yeah. I believe the st-line wagon still has the multilink. Don't know about the diesel.

[@1bbnnkk]

They don’t put multi link suspension on hatchbacks since may 2019

[@agrch9282]

Estates, Active trims (all) still have multilinks (at least pre lift).

[@ScottZ370]

No doubt this will soon follow the fate of the Fiesta

[@reececollison5101]

It will

[@jamesrico7633]

*When it comes to investment, diversification is key. That is why I have my interests set on key sectors based on performance and projected growth. They range from the EV sector, renewable energy, Tech and Health.*

[@richardwilliam486]

Actually, when someone is good at what he/she does, their good work will surely speak, Mr Paul Williams is really a top notch in trading, you can try him out

[@ryanswilliams9018]

March this year, I started an investment with Mr Williams, I invested $9000 which I went into his short-time trading and he helped me clear my Bank dept over $62,700

[@richardwilliams7833]

You should checkout Paul Williams trading platform! their students/investors make a killing trading with him.

[@robertnoah6346]

I think someone else has also drop it up there, anyone who he handles he's or her trade for I believe is lucky.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Ficus. Ev dose exist 90 mile rangr

[@ShyamG94]

I recently sold my 69 plate Ford focus st line and I have to say this car is essentially exactly the same with a bigger screen and the logo being moved to the bumper I find it crazy how this is considered an update

[@benlecluyse]

Amazing review like always !!

[@gamingmadforever6363]

I'm still confused why people would not want this over a svu . People are just loosing taste

[@SurgeDashcam]

SUVs are the reason why small family hatches are fading out. I don't understand why so many people want to buy these crossovers & SUVs when the car is bigger than their driving ability, and the interior of a lot of them are no more spacious than a typical focus. My dad has a BMW X4, and the interior in that actually feels more cramped than my focus, although seated a bit higher.

[@michelebicc6983]

Needs a 1.5/1.6 petrol engine to sit in between the 1.0L and the 2.3L ST

[@mr13377]

The 1.0 runs great and sounds really nice, really dont see why you would need a larger engine unless you were going to race it. Try the 1.0 with manual gearbox on twisty roads, its fun and challenging.

[@Brukers3]

There was a 1.5l Ecoboost engine with 150/182hp, it's a shame Ford discontinued it with the facelift.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Hibride.

[@nigelbryant5932]

I wish manufacturers would liaise with you Mat, while they are in the design phase 😂😂 this would iron out the faults 👍👍👍

[@garyfrew1330]

Have they sorted the rubbers around the doors

[@taaafi_9952]

9:13, wrong Matt, in the previous focus, which i have, it has the same straightforward button to activate/deactivate LKA. Cheers

[@velkovskinikola2]

Had a pre-face wagon as company car. Great handling, well built, comfortable, good gearbox. A bit larger and harder to park than some of its competition. Also I am skeptical about the logevity and reliability of these 3 cylinder eco boost engines. Anybody done like 200 000 kms with one of these? Can they make it without problems?

[@MutzHD]

Lovely car. Wouldn’t pay 26k for it though. I got a 2014 TDCI for under 6k with 60k miles and the 22 model is not worth an additional 20.

[@Lib654]

but read the coments, it is plenty of idiots with money who will pay, that is reality, how this car can cost 26k is beyond me, Ford 26k ahahaha

[@MutzHD]

@@Lib654 You’ve got to be an idiot to buy a brand new car.

[@akuskus]

Just wanted to comment the same thing. Quite recently such small hatchbacks didn't cost anything. This 26k should be divided by 2, then can maybe start negotiations.

[@alandavies9929]

Decent car. The only issue I have is that lease price on this is more than I am paying on my 4 series. I wanted to downgrade from bmw. But current prices are shocking. Hopefully prices will get better on all cars

[@andersnielsen6044]

They never will.

[@FefyGT]

Why would they? I've never seen things getting cheaper in my entire life😂

[@Marcelo-cf7qe]

That baby seat test is the best thing ever!!! I never see reviewers doing that!