2002 Ford Focus ZX3

Korean automakers have run rabid through the small car lot of late, skimming off buyers galore with prices too cheap to believe. Fighting this incursion takes courage, commitment, and creativity beyond the pale. It takes a seriously outstanding effort such as the one Ford invested in its Focus, a bare-knuckle import fighter launched two years ago. The sensible strategy would have been to snuggle the Focus between proven Escort and Contour car lines. But in this day of cutthroat competition, the sensible approach seldom works. So Ford cleared its small-car decks, retiring both of those bookend vehicles to give the Focus ample breathing room. Designers and engineers exploited that opportunity to create one of the most interesting—and enjoyable to drive—small-car families ever to wear a domestic manufacturer's ID plate. Of particular note is the overtly sporty ZX3 hatchback.

Big rear hatch provides easy access to generous 18.6-cubic-foot cargo bay. Standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat adds even more utility.

While the Koreans are thriving with stripper subcompacts, the least-expensive Focus in the lineup rolls forth amazingly well equipped for its $12,960 price. Standard fare in the ZX3 is a twin-cam 2.0-liter engine rated at 130 horsepower, sport seats, fog lamps, anti-theft system, 15-inch cast aluminum wheels shod with T-rated 195/60 tires and a CD sound system. Our test car augmented this with the $1,095 Premium Group option, which adds air conditioning, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering column, map lights and an armrest to the roster of creature comforts along with 205/60HR16 tires on 6-spoke alloy rims. Also present on our car was a $400 upgrade for 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock. Those extras brought its as-tested total up to $14,455 (including destination). Still a very respectable figure given the hardware involved.

Space-efficient interior design means adults can sit in both front and rear seats. Distinctively styled dash still puts all major controls and switches within easy reach.

The first thing you notice about the ZX3 is that doesn't look much like your average econobox. A long, high roof arch opens up extra headroom inside so passengers in both tiers of seats sit comfortably upright with their knees bent and their toes flat on the floor. Like its fellow Foci, the ZX3's asymmetric dash houses an array of highly legible analog gauges and features well-positioned, easy-to-use controls and switchgear. Behind the convenient 60/40 split-folding rear bench lies an 18.6-cubic-foot cargo bay, easily accessed by a large hatch door with a bumper-level cutout. This small-car convenience came and went for a variety of reasons. Now, Ford is betting the SUV craze, the rise of conventional sport wagons, and good old common sense will help an eminently practical design feature enjoy a well-deserved comeback.


For 2002, the all-important cup holders accept larger drink containers and handy storage pockets have been added to the seat backs. A power moonroof is now available for $595 on all Focus body styles. Another must-have option is a 6-disc CD changer that's included with keyless entry, power mirrors and windows, and power door locks in the $940 "power premium" upgrade.

A superbly sport-tuned chassis adds a solid measure of fun to the ZX3 driving experience; optional AdvanceTrac handling assist system adds even more safety.

Engineered in Europe by some of the best and brightest ever to have a Blue Oval logo tattooed onto their chests, the Focus's suspension system blends a jiggle-free ride with well-balanced handling. The combination of front struts with a multi-link system in back is hardly revolutionary, but extra effort invested in tuning gives the ZX3 the ability to glide over major pavement imperfections without rattling apart at the seams. Firestone Firehawk GTA 02 radials on our car grabbed the road with tenacity. Working in concert with quick steering and well-damped body motions, they let the ZX3 dart and dodge through tight traffic like a NBA forward negotiating the key. While most small cars tend to scrub their front tires to the nubs when you crank in extra steering to make a bold move, this agile hatchback uses all four boots equitably. That means the tail is just as likely to step wide in turns as the front of the car, a highly unusual but entertaining trait for any front-wheel-drive machine.