2001 Ford Focus Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2001 Ford Focus includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Ford Focus from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Ford Focus, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Ford Focus help you decide if a 2001 Ford Focus is right for you.

2001 Ford Focus Road Test

Pros	Cons

Control layout	Acceleration

Handling/roadholding	Engine noise

Fuel economy	Rear-seat entry/exit (hatchback)

Cargo room (wagon)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
3	4	4	4	3.7

Both engines provide only adequate power for highway merging or pulling up long grades, even with manual transmission. Automatic transmission dulls off-the-line snap, but is not a big detriment in everyday use.

Fuel Economy

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
7	6	7	7	6.8

Over 12,037 mi., our extended-use test ZTS 5-speed averaged 26.5 mpg. With automatic-transmission, a ZTS averaged 23.2, an SE wagon 24.1.

Ride Quality

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
4	4	4	3	3.7

All versions have a firm suspension and a flat highway ride. Bumps register with a thump, as in many European cars, but their impact seldom disturbs the cabin.

Steering/Handling/Braking

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
5	5	6	6	4.2

Impressive. Linear, communicative steering, well-controlled body lean, good grip. We haven't had an opportunity to test a Focus with the new antiskid system, but similar systems have proven helpful in staying on course in turns. Braking with ABS is stable and fairly swift.

Quietness

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
4	4	4	4	3.6

Noticeable wind rush around front side windows. Ragged engine note at high rpm. Noise levels otherwise unobjectionable.

Controls

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
7	7	7	7	5.5

Controls are conspicuous and smooth-working, air ducts prominent, and air conditioner operates in all vent modes. Cabin materials, workmanship generally good, although some test cars suffered poor-fitting interior panels.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
5	5	5	5	4.3

Occupants sit comfortably upright on chairlike cushions, and get outstanding head room. Stirrup-type exterior door handles and large front-door frames assist entry/exit.

Room/Comfort (rear)

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
5	5	5	3	3.1

Good head room and more leg clearance than in most subcompacts. Easy to get in and out of, although doors should open wider.

Cargo Room

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
3	6	3	6	3.3

All body types, wagon in particular, have generous cargo holds and rear seats that flip/fold flat. Liftovers are low, and sedan's trunklid uses strut-type hinges that don't intrude into the luggage area.

Value within Class

LX sdn, auto.	SE wgn, auto.	ZTS, man.	ZX3, auto.	Class Average
9	10	10	7	4.6

Not as refined as a Honda Civic or Volkswagen Jetta, but Focus offers generous subcompact passenger and cargo room. It's fun to drive, too, despite timid engines. And prices are very competitive.

Total Score