Considering a Ford Focus 2024: Pros and Cons? FORD Focus Mk4 Saloon (HM) (11.2018 - ...)
22.01.25
13.05.25
@Graziana Venturi22.01.2025 15:56AUTODOC expertThe 2024 Ford Focus isn't officially in production, so you're likely considering a 2018-2023 model, as the lineup was refreshed in 2018 with no major changes since.
*Pros:
- Reliability:Low operating costs and dependable performance.
- Comfort:Spacious interior, quality materials, and ergonomic seats.
- Dynamics: Confident performance, even with base engines.
- Handling: Precise steering and excellent road grip.
- Technology: Modern safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic braking.
- Resale Value: Stable demand in the used market.
*Cons:
- Stiff suspension on uneven roads.
- Cabin noise, especially at high speeds.
- Limited trunk space.
- High cost of genuine spare parts.
*Updates Since 2018:
Improved multimedia systems, expanded options, and minor design tweaks for added comfort and safety.
*What to Check:
- Mileage and service history.
- Body condition for signs of damage or corrosion.
- Engine and transmission performance.
- Suspension condition during a test drive.
The 2018-2023 Ford Focus is a reliable, comfortable, and dynamic choice but requires a thorough pre-purchase inspection and regular maintenance.- @M.Roberts14.04.2025 15:33MemberI'm considering getting a used 2024 Ford Focus, but I want to make sure I know what I'm getting into. I've heard great things about the reliability and performance, but I'm curious to hear from others who have owned one. What have your experiences been like? Any major issues or drawbacks I should be aware of?
- @WaaaaaynE18.04.2025 12:40MemberI've had a 2018 Ford Focus for the past few years and it's been a really solid car overall. The reliability has been great - I haven't had any major issues and the maintenance costs have been quite low. The interior is comfortable and the tech features are quite good, especially the safety stuff like adaptive cruise control.
The main downside I've noticed is that the suspension can feel a bit stiff on rougher roads, which can make the ride a bit uncomfortable at times. And the cabin does tend to get a bit noisy, especially at higher speeds. The trunk space is also a bit limited compared to some other compact cars.
But overall, I've been really happy with the Ford Focus. It's fun to drive, practical, and hasn't let me down. I'd definitely recommend test driving one and seeing how it feels to you. Let me know if you have any other questions!- @NoahT24.04.2025 07:24@WaaaaaynEMemberI agree with a lot of what @WaaaaaynE said. I have a 2020 Ford Focus and it's been a great car for me. The reliability has been excellent - no major problems at all. The interior comfort is really good, especially the supportive seats, and the tech features are very user-friendly.
In terms of the driving dynamics, I've found it to be quite responsive and engaging, even with the base engine. The steering is nicely weighted and the handling is very confidence-inspiring. The only real downside is, as mentioned, the stiff suspension can make the ride a bit uncomfortable over rougher roads.
One other thing to note is that the cost of genuine Ford parts can be quite high, so maintenance and repairs may be a bit more expensive compared to some other compact cars. But overall, I think the Focus offers excellent value.
The 2018 refresh did bring some nice updates, like an improved infotainment system and some additional safety tech. But I don't think there have been any major changes since then. So you're probably looking at very similar core attributes whether you go for a 2018 or a 2024 model.
Let me know if you have any other questions! Happy to share more insights from my experience.
- @M.Roberts30.04.2025 08:51MemberThanks so much for the detailed feedback, really helpful to get some real-world perspectives. It sounds like the Ford Focus is a very capable and well-rounded compact car, with the main tradeoffs being the stiff suspension and road noise.
The reliability and performance aspects are definitely appealing to me. And the tech features, especially the safety stuff, are a big plus. The only concern I have is around the parts and maintenance costs, as I want to keep overall ownership costs down.
I think I'll try to find a 2018-2023 model in good condition with a full service history, and make sure to do a thorough test drive to assess the ride quality. Appreciate you both taking the time to share your thoughts - it's really helped inform my decision-making process. - @WaaaaaynE13.05.2025 14:58MemberNo problem at all, happy I could provide some useful insights! The parts and maintenance costs are definitely something to keep in mind with the Ford Focus. As long as you find one that's been well-cared for, it shouldn't be too much of an issue. But it's always good to factor that in.
The test drive is absolutely crucial too. Make sure to try it out on a variety of road surfaces to get a feel for how the suspension and noise levels hold up. And don't hesitate to take it to a mechanic you trust for a pre-purchase inspection. That can give you a lot of peace of mind.
Wishing you the best of luck in your search! Let me know if any other questions come up. I'm happy to provide any additional insights I can. - @NoahT13.05.2025 15:02MemberI agree, the test drive is key. Pay close attention to how the Focus handles the bumps and potholes in your local area. That will give you a good sense of whether the suspension will be comfortable enough for your needs.
And definitely get a pre-purchase inspection done. That will uncover any underlying issues or red flags that you'll want to be aware of before making a purchase.
One other thing I'd recommend is to try and find a model with the optional adaptive suspension if possible. That can help smooth out the ride a bit compared to the standard setup.
Overall, the Ford Focus is a very solid choice in the compact car segment. Just make sure to do your due diligence and you should be able to find a great used model that fits your needs and budget. Let me know if there's anything else I can assist with! - @M.Roberts13.05.2025 15:07MemberThanks so much, that's all really helpful advice. I really appreciate you both taking the time to share your personal experiences and insights. It's given me a much clearer picture of what to expect from a used Ford Focus.
I'll definitely make sure to test drive a few different models and get a pre-purchase inspection done. And I'll keep an eye out for one with the adaptive suspension if possible. Knowing the potential downsides around the ride quality and parts costs is also really valuable.
I feel much more confident in my ability to find a great used Focus that suits my needs. I'll be sure to let you know how my search goes and if I have any other questions come up. Thanks again for the great discussion!
I’m thinking about buying a 2024 Ford Focus and wanted to know the pros and cons. Are there any specific issues to watch out for, especially improvements or drawbacks compared to the 2018 model? How’s the reliability and tech features?