The Evolution of the Ford Focus
While Ford Focus remains a popular choice for North American drivers, it didn’t come into fruition until a few years after its initial release. The Focus was a product of its time, originating from Ford of Europe to accommodate the tight corners and roads. Learn more about the history and the evolution of the Ford Focus, right here at Kentwood Ford!
First Generation (1998–2004)
In 1998, the first iteration of the Ford Focus released in Europe as a replacement for the Ford Escort, winning the European Car of the Year award the following year. In 2000, the Ford Focus enters the North American market with some changes from the European model. The Focus was sold as a three-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and five-door wagon with a five-door hatchback releasing the following year.
Second Generation (2004–2011)
The 2008–2011 generations of the restyled Ford Focus released in North America with two-door coupe and four-door sedan versions. The interior came redesigned with new seats, a dashboard redesign with new panels that feel like brushed aluminium, ambient lighting, and included the first SYNC system with voice control and Bluetooth. The hatchback and wagon versions were discontinued the same year.
Third Generation (2011–2018)
In 2014, Ford debuted an updated Focus at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, with a newly redesigned front end that incorporates Ford’s new family grille and headlight designs. Additionally, Ford also unveiled their performance-based Ford models: the ST and RS. Each one featured an upgraded 2.3L EcoBoost engine A few years earlier, Ford also released an all-electric model of the Focus to compete with the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt.
Fourth Generation (2018–Present)
Marking the 20th anniversary since its initial release, the fourth-generation Ford Focus receives a new sportier design and a stripped-down interior for more simplicity for the European and Asian markets. In addition, new technologies were included with the new model such as the new SYNC 3 system, FordPass Connect, and a 360-degree multiview camera. The fourth generation Focus comes in multiple styles including a sedan, hatchback, estate, and crossover SUV.
