All versions of the Focus are fun to drive. Its supple and controlled ride, low noise levels, and solid interior make it feel substantial. The 160-hp four-cylinder provides adequate acceleration, but the automatic transmission isn’t so smooth at low speeds.
Model Lineup:
Small car buyers choosing the 2014 Ford Focus can select between a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback in a variety of flavors. The performance-tuned Focus ST and the Focus Electric models are covered in separate summaries. Remaining Focus models are offered in S (sedan only), SE, and Titanium trim levels.
Upgrading to SE trim adds power rear windows, cruise control, an upgraded stereo with steering wheel controls, Sync Bluetooth connectivity with 911 Assist service, and MyKey safety technology. The SE models also include a center armrest, front floor mats, automatic headlights, and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
Select the Focus Titanium and the car is equipped with leather, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, a premium audio system including HD Radio, dual-zone climate control, MyFord Touch technology, and passive entry with push-button starting. The Titanium models also have a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, one-touch operation for all power windows, ambient cabin lighting, fog lights, bigger wheels, and upgraded brakes.
Engines and Transmissions:
The 2014 Focus is equipped with a 160-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a standard 5-speed manual gearbox delivering power to the car’s front wheels. A 6-speed PowerShift automated manual transmission is optional.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
According to the EPA, the 2014 Focus gets between 26 mpg in the city with a manual gearbox and 37 mpg on the highway with the PowerShift transmission. When equipped with the Super Fuel Economy (SFE) option package, the car returns 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Safety Ratings:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2014 Focus a 5-star overall crash-test rating, the highest score possible. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) calls the 2014 Focus a “Top Safety Pick Plus,” the highest accolade given. The Focus received an “Acceptable” rating in the tough new small overlap frontal-impact test, making it eligible for the “plus” designation.
Technology Highlights:
Select a Focus SE, and the car is equipped with standard MyKey programmable vehicle features and Sync Bluetooth connectivity with 911 Assist. As long as a paired phone is in the car, 911 Assist activates if the car’s airbags deploy and helps speed rescuers to the scene of the collision. Rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are standard on Focus Titanium models.
Options for the SE and Titanium include MyFord Touch with navigation, mobile Wi-Fi connectivity, HD Radio, iTunes song tagging, text-to-voice technology, and more. An Active Park Assist system is available for the Focus Titanium, and steers the car into a parallel parking space while the driver operates the foot pedals.
Tags: 2014 Ford Focus
