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There is a newer version of this car Read the latest Ford Focus Hatchback review here

Ford Focus Hatchback (1998-2004) review

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Parkers overall rating: 4 out of 54.0

At a glance

Price new £9,868 - £16,840
Used prices £353 - £2,550
Road tax cost £190 - £415
Insurance group 9 - 31
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Fuel economy Not tested to latest standards
Range 320 - 690 miles
Number of doors 3 - 5
View full specs for a specific version

Available fuel types

Petrol

Diesel

Alternative fuel

Pros & cons

PROS

Good choice of engines and trim, easy to drive, ST170 is cheap, fast and fun

CONS

Poor equipment on early models

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Overview

The Focus was nothing short of a revelation when it was launched, offering a superb blend of practicality, comfort and keen handling. A great all-rounder, it continues to be a hugely popular model and with a wide range of engines and trims there’s something to suit everyone. Easy to live with and simple to drive, the Focus makes an ideal small family car with the 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre Zetec models the pick of the range.

There are also some excellent TDCI diesels which are refined and ideal for long distance travel.