The 2012 Ford Focus brings a lot to the world of compact cars. Available as either a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback, the Focus has great fuel efficiency and European styling that sets it apart from other cars in its class.
Key Features
If you go with the SE trim, you’ll get the Super Fuel Economy (SFE) package, which boosts gas mileage by optimizing aerodynamics through auto-articulated grille shutters. In addition to this feature, the SFE package also includes aerodynamic wheel covers, a low-profile rear spoiler, and tires with decreased rolling resistance, all for better performance and higher gas mileage.
Changes for 2012
Ford not only redesigned the entire exterior of the Focus sedan in 2012, but they also introduced the five-door hatchback body style. They also added a lot of standard and optional features across all trim levels, and the 2012 Titanium trim level comes standard with Ford’s top-of-the-line infotainment system, the MyFord Touch, which includes SYNC voice-command features, Bluetooth, and more.
What We Like
We love that the Focus is both fuel efficient and sporty, and the 6-speed automatic PowerShift transmission is a huge bonus. We also like that you can opt for Ford’s infotainment system and their Active Park Assist feature, which lets your car take care of parallel parking for you.
What Concerns Us
While we like the new look, we have a feeling that some more conservative car buyers won’t be as excited about it. Likewise, all the new features on the 2012 Ford Focus take it out of some buyers’ budgets for economy compact cars.
Available Models
All models and trims are equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower at 6500 RPM and 146 lb-ft of torque at 4450 RPM. Model and trim options include a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The gas mileage for these models ranges from 26 to 28 MPG in the city and from 36 to 40 on the highway.
Major Recalls
There have been three recalls on certain models of the 2012 Ford Focus, to correct issues with the passenger side wiper motor connector, the vehicle’s rooftop rack system, and inoperable side lights. All of these issues can be handled by taking your vehicle to a Ford dealership to repair or replace the affected parts.
Common Issues
For this model year, the most common issues involved the transmission. Some drivers claimed to feel shuddering on takeoff, while others reported hesitation in lower gears. These issues can be detected in a test drive and addressed with a qualified auto mechanic.
