Exploring the Last of its Kind: A 2025 Ford Focus Review

Feeling a twinge of nostalgia, I recently took the face-lifted fourth-generation Ford Focus for a spin, a car that has been a constant companion on roads worldwide since its debut in 1998. However, this sentimental journey comes with a bittersweet realization – the 2025 Ford Focus will be the last of its kind as Ford plans to cease its production, shifting its entire focus to electric vehicles.

The Ford Focus entered the automotive scene in 1998, heralding a new era as a successor to the aging Ford Escort. Over the years, it has undergone several facelifts and diversified into various body styles, cementing its status as a beloved mid-sized family car.

From five-door hatchbacks to estates, saloons, and cabriolets, the Focus has adapted to changing times, consistently incorporating new styling, technologies, and engines to meet the evolving needs of its diverse user base.

Ford’s announcement to halt the production of the Focus by 2025 reflects the industry’s paradigm shift. With consumers increasingly leaning towards larger crossovers and SUVs, the decision aligns with the evolving preferences in the automotive market.

Exploring the 2025 Ford Focus

The revamped fourth-generation Focus boasts a futuristic interior dominated by a 13.2-inch touchscreen. This not only adds a modern aesthetic but also integrates controls for heating and ventilation. However, some might miss the physical buttons for these functions, a departure from the conventional interface.

The centerpiece of the dashboard, the 13.2-inch touchscreen, not only controls essential functions but also houses SYNC4, Ford’s advanced infotainment system. This system introduces wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration between smartphone functions and the car’s interface.

Enhancing the driver’s experience is a 12.3-inch digital cluster, providing a comprehensive view of essential information. This easy-to-read display facilitates better interaction with the car’s features, contributing to an overall enhanced driving experience.

During my recent drive in the ST-Line X variant, powered by Ford’s 3-cylinder 1.0 EcoBoost 125hp engine, the car exhibited an impressive blend of power and efficiency. The smooth 6-speed manual gearbox and 170Nm of torque delivered a satisfying driving experience.

Clocking 0-100km/h in 10.2 seconds, the Focus proves its mettle in everyday driving scenarios. While the annual road tax stands at a reasonable €200, the claimed fuel return of 5.1L/100kms may slightly differ in real-world conditions. My week of ‘ordinary’ driving returned 6.5 litres, showcasing its practical efficiency.

Luggage Space and Audio Experience

With a decent luggage space of 340 litres with rear seats in place, the Focus ensures practicality. The adjustable load floor adds versatility, creating two separate spaces for secure item storage. The B & O Premium Audio with 10 speakers, present in my test car, elevated the auditory experience, enhancing the overall driving ambiance.

As Ford bids adieu to the Focus and steers towards an all-electric future, it prompts reflection on the inevitability of change. The automotive industry’s transition signifies a broader shift towards sustainable practices and innovative technologies.

The end of Focus production beckons the question of how consumers will adapt to the evolving automotive landscape. The preferences for larger vehicles indicate a changing consumer mindset, challenging automakers to align their offerings with the market’s demands.

As the wheels of time turn, the 2025 Ford Focus stands as a testament to an era characterized by reliability, adaptability, and a commitment to innovation. While bidding farewell might evoke nostalgia, it also opens the door to an electrifying future envisioned by Ford.