CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 4,000
Average Price: Around £10,000

Ford Focus (2018-2025) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Great to drive	Ford doesn't make it anymore
Ample space for tall passengers	Some rivals have bigger boots
Excellent EcoBoost petrol engines	Entry-level cars don't feel as dynamic

Quick Summary

The Ford Focus (2018-2025), known as the Mk4, is a class-leading family hatchback that rewrote the rulebook when it first arrived. Throughout its life, the Focus remained true to its core attributes: exceptional handling and steering response, combined with a practical and well-finished interior. The fourth generation stayed true to these principles, offering superb driving dynamics that trumped the competition, though rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Seat Leon gradually closed the gap. Unveiled at Ford's UK headquarters in 2018, the Focus received a refresh in 2021, just a year before Ford retired the nameplate.

The Focus offers a comprehensive range of petrol and diesel engines to suit all needs, with excellent EcoBoost turbocharged units delivering impressive performance and efficiency. The hatchback provides 375 litres of boot space, whilst the estate offers 635 litres, with both featuring 60:40 split rear benches. Post-facelift models benefit from significant technology upgrades, including SYNC4 infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a larger 13.0-inch touchscreen. The sporty Focus ST delivers thrilling performance without compromising everyday comfort, making it an excellent all-rounder. Running costs are competitive, with all models ULEZ-compliant and meeting Euro6 emissions standards.

Best for: Drivers seeking a well-rounded family hatchback with class-leading handling, those wanting excellent petrol or diesel engines, and buyers looking for a sporty hot hatch (ST).

Not ideal for: Those prioritising striking styling or flashy interiors, buyers seeking maximum boot space compared to rivals, or those wanting the latest nameplate appeal.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Focus if: You're seeking a well-rounded family hatchback with class-leading handling, want excellent petrol or diesel engines, or are looking for a sporty hot hatch (ST).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise striking styling, flashy interiors, maximum boot space, or the latest nameplate appeal.

Competitive Position: The Ford Focus (2018-2025) is a strong contender in the family hatchback market, offering exceptional driving dynamics and a comprehensive range of engines. Whilst the Volkswagen Golf edges ahead with a higher user rating and overall score, the Focus delivers superior handling and steering response. The BMW 1 Series offers upmarket appeal, whilst the Vauxhall Astra provides a newer alternative. However, the Focus remains the benchmark for driving enjoyment in this class, combining performance, practicality, and competitive running costs. Its discontinuation adds a degree of scarcity value to the used market.

Read our full Ford Focus Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.