2000 Ford Focus Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2000 Ford Focus was a heavily marketed attempt by the automaker to bring some of the phenomenal European success of its compact family...
The 2000 Ford Focus was a heavily marketed attempt by the automaker to bring some of the phenomenal European success of its compact family cars back to America. The 1999 European version of the Focus was named the continent’s “Car of the Yearâ€Â; its styling and features drew on those of popular models like the Ford Ka, a market mainstay in the UK and Europe.
Ford introduced the 2000 Focus in North America as a replacement for its Escort line, and accompanied the launch with a media splash. In the US and Canada, though, the 2000 Focus had something of a bumpy start. With a buying public seduced by SUVs, this line of smallish sedans, wagons, and hatchbacks had trouble gaining traction in the North American market.
Basic trims available were a four-door sedan and a four-door wagon; a four-door "Sony Limited" sedan offered high-end audio equipment, while a two-door ZX3 hatchback and a four-door ZTS sedan relied on an upgraded engine and some luxury features to distinguish itself from the entry-level vehicles in the line.
The engine, a 110-horsepower, 2.0 liter four-cylinder model, didn't wow the public; the ZX3 and ZTS engine, which had dual overhead camshafts and put out 130 horsepower and 135 ft/lbft of torque, drew more guarded praise. To today's buyers, though, the fuel efficiency of the 2000 Ford Focus (from 28-33 mpg city, 23-26 mpg highway, depending on model) may be ample compensation for its less-than-impressive power.
The 2000 Focus came standard with five-speed manual transmission, anti-lock braking system, and dual dashboard airbags. Traction control was available as an additional option, as was automatic transmission.
Most reviewers found that the Focus handled well, if a little stiffly, with ample power for everyday highway and city driving. The Focus didn't stand out, though, in a market with plenty of other choices for basic family transportation.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2000 Ford Focus appreciate its fun handling, good fuel economy, and spacious interior. Many drivers highlight its reliability and low maintenance costs, making it a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers. However, some are disappointed with its performance and acceleration, often feeling it lacks power, particularly with the air conditioning on."
Where can I start? The 2000 Focus is a complete solid car that can bring joy to anybody. First, the performance: The 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder, DOHC, Zetec engine produces 135 BHP and is fairly bullet proof, it will last for a long time. My Focus has done around 180,000 miles on all origional parts, except for gaskets and other parts that need replaced every couple of thousand of miles. Pretty good for a ten year old car! The engine is completely adaquate enough for everyday use and the occasional time when you feel like going fast. Despite this, the engine could do with just a tiny bit more power to add to the sportyness of the Focus. However, when you hit the GO pedal and you let the revs get up high, you will hear the sweet sound of the engine. It is phenominal. The brakes on the Focus are unbelievably brilliant. All you need to do is tap the brake pedal and you stop very quickly. When you stop, put your face back where it belongs and keep going. The brakes stop you quick when you need it and slows you down when you need it. The stopping power is phenominal considering the brakes at the front are about 1 foot in diameter and the rears are drums. The 2000 Focus is well built all round. It will keep its self composed for many years. I've recently replaced the suspension all round and the front rotors just to keep it as safe as it possibly can. After 10 years, the suspension is pretty soft instead of hard. Now that the replacements are on, the Focus sits about 2 inches higher than it did with the sagging, old ones on there. There was nothing wrong with the brakes, just replaced them so I know its safe and they'll last another life time. After 10 years though, the Air Conditioning Compressor is squeaking now, but from frequent use for 10 straight years, it is expected to happen, nothing can last forever. The car does not rattle, bang or anything else. The Focus looks, to me anyway, really good. I like the way the rear lights are situated up high, not only to look more interesting, but so that they are more visible to the car following you. The side of the Focus had very interesting lines and you could spend hours looking around it looking at all the tiny curves, bends, and lines on it. The large headlights look good aswell as lighting up the road amazingly. The interior design is pure and also very interesting. The lines of the dask is unique and is oddly good looking. The gauges are very large and easy to read as well as being accutare. The gauges do need a readout for battery life though. Apart from that, they are brilliant. The way the seats feel are unbelievably comfortable. They hold you well when you are moving down the road. One fo the best things about the Focus is that is is so cheap to run. $20.00 of fuel today will easily last you up to 2 weeks (depending on how you use it, of course). The Focus is incredibally easy to maintain. It will last you a while when you treat it right. This car is a "hatchback", but it behaves as a sports car. It is really sporty to drive and it makes you forget that you are driving a hatchback. It shouldn't be called a hatchback; it should be called a "Sports Coupe". To sum it all up, the 2000 Ford Focus ZX3 is one of the best cars out there today and gives you a feeling of joy that is unique in every way.
March 1, 2010Whoever knocks on owning a hatchback should seriously consider a gen 1 Focus ZX3 (or equally fun to drive VW Golf/Rabbit/GTI). Sure it was a goofy looking pod for transportation, but the combination of a nearly flat, deep load floor and a straight roof made for superior hauling capability over most other compact cars on the road. With the seats folded up, it will swallow 5 people comfortably, 4 people and their golf clubs, or 3 people and luggage for a 10 day vacation (no lie). The interior design was equally as goofy as the exterior, and it was a sea of black plastic, however it proved durable over 5 years and 80k miles of ownership (from 2003-2008). The sound quality of the stereo was acceptable. The front seats actually proved quite supportive and more comfortable than one would expect from a small car. The Zetec engine was eager, but hampered by the Ford 4-speed transaxle. Acceleration was anemic for highway merging, but the okay torque was completely adequate around town. Despite these woes, highway mileage was decent enough, and it didn't hunt for gears on hills at highway speed. Durability was acceptable, but not stellar. No major problems came up, however I had to remember that no matter how hard I push it, it will never be as fast as my Mustang or the Jags. Handling, on the other hand, was a major strong point for the car. It took corners with ease, very little body roll, or tire noise. The ride quality was equally impressive (even with the 16 inch alloys and 205/45R tires). Engine and wind noise were rather excessive at highway speeds, however a good set of tires can cure any road noise issues you may have.
July 6, 2008Incredibly solid car. The original clutch lasted for over 160,00 miles. Handles well, has a 2.0L 4 cyl. which is surprising quick (acceleration, speed, etc.). Has had very low maintenance costs and gets great fuel economy. Good looking car and (I own a sitck) fun to drive. Highly recommended. My mechanic has recommended it over many fancier european models.
October 14, 2008What owners say
Where can I start? The 2000 Focus is a complete solid car that can bring joy to anybody. First, the performance: The 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder, DOHC, Zetec engine produces 135 BHP and is fairly bullet proof, it will last for a long time. My Focus has done around 180,000 miles on all origional parts, except for gaskets and other parts that need replaced every couple of thousand of miles. Pretty good for a ten year old car! The engine is completely adaquate enough for everyday use and the occasional time when you feel like going fast. Despite this, the engine could do with just a tiny bit more power to add to the sportyness of the Focus. However, when you hit the GO pedal and you let the revs get up high, you will hear the sweet sound of the engine. It is phenominal. The brakes on the Focus are unbelievably brilliant. All you need to do is tap the brake pedal and you stop very quickly. When you stop, put your face back where it belongs and keep going. The brakes stop you quick when you need it and slows you down when you need it. The stopping power is phenominal considering the brakes at the front are about 1 foot in diameter and the rears are drums. The 2000 Focus is well built all round. It will keep its self composed for many years. I've recently replaced the suspension all round and the front rotors just to keep it as safe as it possibly can. After 10 years, the suspension is pretty soft instead of hard. Now that the replacements are on, the Focus sits about 2 inches higher than it did with the sagging, old ones on there. There was nothing wrong with the brakes, just replaced them so I know its safe and they'll last another life time. After 10 years though, the Air Conditioning Compressor is squeaking now, but from frequent use for 10 straight years, it is expected to happen, nothing can last forever. The car does not rattle, bang or anything else. The Focus looks, to me anyway, really good. I like the way the rear lights are situated up high, not only to look more interesting, but so that they are more visible to the car following you. The side of the Focus had very interesting lines and you could spend hours looking around it looking at all the tiny curves, bends, and lines on it. The large headlights look good aswell as lighting up the road amazingly. The interior design is pure and also very interesting. The lines of the dask is unique and is oddly good looking. The gauges are very large and easy to read as well as being accutare. The gauges do need a readout for battery life though. Apart from that, they are brilliant. The way the seats feel are unbelievably comfortable. They hold you well when you are moving down the road. One fo the best things about the Focus is that is is so cheap to run. $20.00 of fuel today will easily last you up to 2 weeks (depending on how you use it, of course). The Focus is incredibally easy to maintain. It will last you a while when you treat it right. This car is a "hatchback", but it behaves as a sports car. It is really sporty to drive and it makes you forget that you are driving a hatchback. It shouldn't be called a hatchback; it should be called a "Sports Coupe". To sum it all up, the 2000 Ford Focus ZX3 is one of the best cars out there today and gives you a feeling of joy that is unique in every way.
March 1, 2010Whoever knocks on owning a hatchback should seriously consider a gen 1 Focus ZX3 (or equally fun to drive VW Golf/Rabbit/GTI). Sure it was a goofy looking pod for transportation, but the combination of a nearly flat, deep load floor and a straight roof made for superior hauling capability over most other compact cars on the road. With the seats folded up, it will swallow 5 people comfortably, 4 people and their golf clubs, or 3 people and luggage for a 10 day vacation (no lie). The interior design was equally as goofy as the exterior, and it was a sea of black plastic, however it proved durable over 5 years and 80k miles of ownership (from 2003-2008). The sound quality of the stereo was acceptable. The front seats actually proved quite supportive and more comfortable than one would expect from a small car. The Zetec engine was eager, but hampered by the Ford 4-speed transaxle. Acceleration was anemic for highway merging, but the okay torque was completely adequate around town. Despite these woes, highway mileage was decent enough, and it didn't hunt for gears on hills at highway speed. Durability was acceptable, but not stellar. No major problems came up, however I had to remember that no matter how hard I push it, it will never be as fast as my Mustang or the Jags. Handling, on the other hand, was a major strong point for the car. It took corners with ease, very little body roll, or tire noise. The ride quality was equally impressive (even with the 16 inch alloys and 205/45R tires). Engine and wind noise were rather excessive at highway speeds, however a good set of tires can cure any road noise issues you may have.
July 6, 2008Incredibly solid car. The original clutch lasted for over 160,00 miles. Handles well, has a 2.0L 4 cyl. which is surprising quick (acceleration, speed, etc.). Has had very low maintenance costs and gets great fuel economy. Good looking car and (I own a sitck) fun to drive. Highly recommended. My mechanic has recommended it over many fancier european models.
October 14, 2008Good car for commuting to work. Comfortable; sporty!
January 2, 2008Almost 140,000 miles and no major problem. Why buy a new car when a few thousands added in aftermarket parts make it still turn heads on the street... I am looking forward to the next 140,000 miles :) Never had any problem, knocking on wood!!!
September 4, 2010The car handles very well, it has been very reliable and gets incredible gas mileage. You can't beat it in snow, and it handles in wet and very wet conditions quite well. The interior is very spacious, and the trunk is absolutely cavernous. This is a great car for trips, and a great car for around town. My next car will also be a focus.
October 7, 2009I love this car, its very reliable and does get quite a good speed on it, its lovely to drive and in the 4 years i've had her the only things I have had to change are the tyres, Would def recommend this car. It hasnt got a cd player though or a sunroof and i would have thought that the time of year it was built those features should have been standard
August 5, 2008When the Focus first came to America after being out in Europe for a year, I was impressed by the bang-for-buck quality it had. After one test drive, I was in love with it after considering a Toyota Celica GTS. The aftermarket for parts took a while to get going, but once it did, it was relatively easy to change the things I wanted to. There were quite a few recalls in the first year or two, as can be expected with a car new to America. Since then, I have been thrilled with the reliabilty and gas mileage. The performance of the car is unmatched for cars in its category.
June 30, 2008Handling of this car is amazing but ...
January 7, 2008Great city/ commuting car. Acceleration was adequate with the 2 liter/ 16 valve Zetec engine (probably would have been a bit quicker if it weren't an automatic, but it handled well. Average gas mileage (24 mpg with mixed driving.) Reliable powertrain. Fun to drive... Good little car.
September 5, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $19,245 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.0L 123 hp I3 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 35 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $17,915 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 110 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $16,320 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 144 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $13,970 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 110 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $13,510 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 130 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $15,625 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 130 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 28 | Drivetrain FWD |
