2002 Ford Focus Sedan

Antilock braking is a $400 option. ZTS sedans can be equipped with more costly AdvanceTrac, Ford's vehicle dynamic system, which incorporates ABS and all-speed traction control that help the car regain stability in case of skidding. Side-impact airbags also are available.


Although the SE Comfort sedan looks more basic inside than the new ZX5 hatchback, it still has a good amount of equipment, including power doors and locks, power windows, cruise control, a tilt wheel and a CD player. Low-end LX sedans run on 14-inch tires, but SE models wear 15-inchers on alloy wheels. Befitting its sportier nature, the ZTS gets 16-inch rubber along with a sport suspension, a rear spoiler, and a tachometer.

Even lower Focus trim levels come packed with power accessories. Innovative styling is eye-catching yet not distracting.

Sharp handling with excellent steering feedback is evident in each version of the Focus—a result of suspension tuning that's more European in nature than some competitors. A Focus SE sedan corners with pleasing crispness and steers with a relatively light touch, but a satisfying sensation. Better yet, a smooth ride, even on city surfaces, adds to the driving delight.


In the SE Comfort sedan with the 130-horsepower engine and automatic, the barest hint of snarl was noted on acceleration; otherwise, the Focus is pleasantly quiet. Even with an automatic transmission, sedan performance is quite spirited, helped by a smoothly efficient response from the four-speed unit. With either engine, the EPA estimates fuel economy at 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway for a Focus with automatic.


Oddly enough, the automatic-transmission SE Comfort sedan felt more enjoyable to drive than a presumably sportier, stick-shift ZX5. That's partly due to some gear noise from the hatchback's manual gearbox, but also because the sedan felt lighter and smoother overall. Naturally, the 110-horsepower engine yields less vigor, though it will probably suit the majority of Focus buyers.