The 10 Best Things to Like About the 2016 Ford Focus [Review]

2016 Ford Focus 5-door hatchback

The Ford Focus underwent a mid-cycle refresh for 2015 and received a series of noteworthy updates that make the refreshed compact sedan and hatchback even more appealing. Turning the spotlight onto the 5-door hatchback model, here are the ten best things to like about the 2016 Ford Focus, excluding the high-performance ST and RS models.

  1. Excellent handling, even when riding on all-season tires. At its core is a well-tuned chassis that enables the Focus to be nimble in the corners and deliver a comfortable ride. Factor in car’s sharp-steering response and strong brakes, and it feels more like a small sports sedan than an economy-focused compact car.
  2. Well-done interior design with above average cabin materials. I also like how the front seats are comfortable and supportive over long hauls.
  3. SYNC 3 infotainment system with emergency crash feature that automatically calls 911 when paired with a compatible phone. Read why the overhauled SYNC 3 system is so much better the previous version HERE.
  4. 30 mpg easily achievable with 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. EPA estimates give the Ford Focus  26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. I observed 29 mpg after driving the Focus more than 400 miles over the course of a week — and I wasn’t even trying to hypermile the hatchback.
  5. The strong list of standard features include a rearview camera, navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, push button start/stop, two USB ports, and Bluetooth. The Titanium trim has the optional Technology package that comprises a blind spot warning system, rear cross-traffic alerts, and lane-keeping assist system.
  6. A fully decked out Titanium trim is only $28k.
  7. Highest safety ratings from NHTSA (5-star overall rating) and IIHS (Good)
  8. Refreshed with revised styling, standard rearview camera.
  9. The hatchback model is the better choice for the practical-minded, as it provides 23.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the 60/40 split seats upright and extends to 44.8 cubic feet of usable cargo space when the rear seats are folded. While an Elantra GT has 50 cubic feet of max cargo space, the Focus can still hold a lot of stuff.
  10. Parking Assist can parallel park the Focus within inches of the curb on the first attempt, and without sustaining any curb rash to the wheels.

2016 Ford Focus 5-door hatchback

2016 FORD FOCUS 5-DOOR HATCHBACK TITANIUM
MSRP $23,725
Price as tested $28,045
Engine 2.0L DOHC I4
Power (hp) 160 @ 6500 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) 146 @ 4450 rpm
Transmission 6-speed automatic (dual-clutch automated manual)
Drivetrain layout front-wheel drive (FWD)
Curb weight 2,919 lbs.
EPA-estimated fuel economy (mpg) 26 / 36 / 29 (city/hwy/observed)
Cargo capacity 23.8 cu. ft. | 44.8 cu. ft w/rear seats folded

 

Key competitors: Mazda3, Kia Forte, VW Golf, Hyundai Elantra GT, Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback, Kia Forte Hatchback, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla **

** Updated Nov 7, 2016 – more competitors added to list

One hot hatch to rule them all. Is it the new 2016 Ford Focus RS? Find out in this TFLcar ‘everything you ever wanted to know’ video.

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