Year
Model Type
Hatchback 30 Combined MPG
(26 city / 36 hwy)
EPA estimated
30 Combined MPG
(26 city / 36 hwy)
EPA estimated
Space-efficient package; fuel-efficient engine; lots of convenience features; world-class style.
ConsLarger turning radius than before; dual-clutch transmission takes getting used to; ride quality suffers noticeably with 18-inch tires.
As the 2012 Ford Focus takes you down the road for the first time, you can feel yourself gradually picking up speed, as if the friction of daily automotive life had suddenly been overcome. You feel as if there is a gap in traffic ahead just for you, while every gas station you see is a reminder that you can sail past without a second thought.
What you sense has nothing to do with physics. Instead it is the burden of the small-car stereotype being lifted from your shoulders. You feel transformed by an automobile that is utterly modern, one that is neither large size nor small size but instead "right size."
Americans have been chasing such a car for decades, wobbling between the guilty pleasure of enormous land yachts and righteous enthusiasm for tiny fuel-sipping pods, but now the Ford Focus shows us the middle ground where most of us belong. Though it carries the same name as Ford's previous compact sedan, this new-generation Focus has been stretched a few inches into a size that's just right.
Just as important, the Ford Focus doesn't make you suffer for choosing the way of the right-size vehicle. It has an adventurous, modern look that makes nearly everything else on the road look tired and stuffy. More important, the 2012 Ford Focus is available with the same comfort and convenience features we demand in large cars, even while its pricing remains consistent with what we expect of a small car. The base model begins at $16,270, which is the same price as the 2010 model. The top-of-the-line Titanium reflects the greater feature array available in the new car, with a price that starts at $22,995.
As you compare this front-wheel-drive sedan with its four-cylinder engine to the competition, the Chevrolet Cruze, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Jetta come to mind as similarly sized and priced vehicles. Yet the style and equipment of the Ford Focus also tempts you to compare it to the four-cylinder variants of the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord and Mazda 6.
PerformanceAs the price of fuel rises irresistibly toward $4 per gallon, it's necessary to make the hard choice between power and fuel economy. But the refined inline-4 engine in the new Focus makes you wonder what the fuss is about because it delivers both.
The 1,999cc inline-4 engine of the new Focus makes 160 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, some 20 hp more than last year's version of this engine. This is enough power to propel this top-of-the-line 2012 Ford Focus Titanium's not insubstantial 3,076 pounds to 60 mph from a standstill in 8.7 seconds, and the car goes through the quarter-mile in 16.4 seconds at 85.4 mph. This engine is also quiet while it's idling at stoplights and refined while it's humming down the freeway in the fast lane.
When the time comes to visit the gas station, you'll be surprised at the number of miles that have gone by. Edmunds testing of this 2012 Ford Focus Titanium recorded an average of 27 mpg. Ford itself promises an EPA-certified 28 mpg city/38 mpg highway, while the EPA has just certified the specially equipped Focus SFE (super fuel economy) for a highway rating of 40 mpg.
Much of the secret lies in the Focus' six-speed automated manual gearbox, a design that has made the leap from high-performance exotic cars to everyday transportation. This transmission shifts according to its own programming like an automatic, yet it still delivers the throttle response and fuel efficiency of a manual transmission. You'll notice the transmission's reluctance to creep forward smoothly from a standstill to parking lot speed, and the transitions between gears will be more abrupt than those of a conventional automatic, but the crisp throttle response combined with a surprise (in a good way) at the gas pump will overcome any reservations you might have.
ComfortThe 2012 Ford Focus sits on a wheelbase that's 1.4 inches longer, while it measures 3.5 inches longer overall and 4 inches wider. An additional 2 inches in front-seat head- and legroom lets you stretch out, plus the steering wheel both tilts and telescopes, so it's easy to think that you're riding in a much larger car. If you go by the dimensions, rear-seat room has shrunk as a result, but this is largely because the front seats have more fore and aft travel.
It's actually kind of refreshing to travel in the Focus. You have a better view of the road than you get in big cars, and a feeling of safety that comes from this. At the same time, the new Focus has that Euro-style sense of structural integrity, a reflection of the high-strength steel used at key points throughout the car.
We must warn you that the laws of physics have not been entirely suspended here, because the Focus does not ride very well with the optional 18-inch 40-series high-performance tires. While these tires might deliver the quick steering response and crisp road feel that performance-oriented drivers prefer, the stiff sidewalls register every crack in the road and the car pitches noticeably back and forth over the bumps.
FunctionYou can have your Focus in a plain flavor if you like, and it'll be a paragon of function. But just like the Mazda 3 and the Mini, the 2012 Ford Focus makes its strongest impression as a premium car, which is the way it really sets itself apart from the competition.
Just as in a premium car, there's a full allotment of available convenience features, like satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless ignition with passive entry, and even an automated system that will parallel park for you.
It is also available with the MyFord Touch system, which offers touchscreen access to all the connectivity and entertainment features of Ford Sync, the Microsoft-engineered connectivity program that combines voice control, satellite navigation, Wi-Fi capability and links to portable communication and entertainment devices.
Yet the combination of lots of MyFord Touch features with a touchscreen interface doesn't work well here. Most of the features are available through a series of menus on the screen, and the process of locating and engaging them is complex and finicky. The process isn't helped by the few buttons available, nor is it ameliorated by the voice recognition system either. In some ways, this suggests to us that the number of electronic features has overwhelmed the apparent simplicity of the touchscreen interface, and that a console-mounted remote control much like what we've seen from German carmakers would be a better solution.
Design/Fit and FinishNot so long ago, Ford labored under its reputation for uninspired middle-class design efforts. But after a couple decades of often controversial effort by assorted executives as well as hard work by design directors J Mays and Peter Horbury, Ford now is at the sharp end of the pack, making even the Germans seem tired and empty of fresh ideas. The Focus is the poster child for Ford's effort, a statement of modernity that's remarkable at any price point, let alone among compact sedans.
Who should consider this vehicleJust as with so many other compact sedans, the 2012 Ford Focus will find ready acceptance among the growing number of people newly conscious of rising gasoline prices. Its fuel efficiency — notably the 40-mpg promise of the Focus SFE model, one of four Ford vehicles EPA rated at 40 mpg highway — will command attention. It also holds the promise of driving performance once found (and since lost) in the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.
Yet the Ford Focus aspires to be far more than a commute car. This is an expression of stylish modernity that really makes you question the way in which cars like the Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry have become full-size sedans, wonderful in their own way and yet a little more than we need and a little costlier than we can afford. The 2012 Ford Focus makes right size the smart size.
Others To Consider
Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3, Volkswagen Jetta.
The manufacturer provided Edmunds this vehicle for the purposes of evaluation.
Used 2012 Ford Focus listings and inventory:
Shop Edmunds' used car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million pre-owned vehicles to find a cheap used and certified pre-owned (CPO) 2012 Ford Focuss for sale near Ashburn VA. There are currently 1,055 used and CPO 2012 Focuss listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as 5,500 and mileage as low as 13,981. Simply research the type of used car, SUV, or truck you're interested in and then select a vehicle from our massive database to find cheap pre-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the used 2012 Ford Focus. Then select Edmunds' special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to 272 on a used or CPO 2012 Focus available from one of 2,632 dealerships in your area.
What's a good price on a used 2012 Ford Focus ?
Save up to $247.5 on one of 102 used 2012 Ford Focuss for sale at dealerships within 25 miles of Ashburn, Virginia with prices as low as $6995 as of Apr 22, 2018, based on data from 18 dealers and 111 consumer-driven dealer ratings ranging from 1 to 5 out of 5 stars.
Price comparisons for used 2012 Ford Focus trim styles:
The used 2012 Ford Focus SE is priced around $8137 with average odometer reading of 67280 miles.
The used 2012 Ford Focus SEL is priced around $11299 with average odometer reading of 90732 miles.
The used 2012 Ford Focus Titanium is priced around $8496 with average odometer reading of 80976 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, Virginia. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
What options are available on the 2012 Ford Focus?
Available Ford Focus 2012 Submodel Types: Sedan, Hatchback, Wagon, Coupe, Electric, SVT
Available Ford Focus 2012 Trims: SE, SEL, SES, Titanium, LX, ZX3, ZX4 SE, S, ZX4 S, ZX4 SES, ZXW SE, Electric, ZTS, ZX5 SES, ZTW, ZX5, SVT, ZX4 ST
Exterior Colors: Magnetic Metallic, Shadow Black, Lightning Blue Metallic, Hot Pepper Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, White Gold Metallic, Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Tuxedo Black Metallic, Blue Metallic, White Platinum Metallic Tri-coat, Sterling Grey Metallic, Outrageous Green Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Performance Blue Metallic, Blue Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Tuxedo Black Metallic (Late Availability), Ingot Silver Metallic, Sangria Red Clearcoat Metallic, Race Red, Blue Candy Metallic, Tectonic Metallic, Vista Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Oxford White, White Gold, CD Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Ebony Clearcoat, Ingot Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Pitch Black Clearcoat, Black Clearcoat, Silver Frost Clearcoat Metallic, White Suede Clearcoat, Blue Flame Clearcoat Metallic, Blue Flame Metallic, Sterling Grey Clearcoat Metallic, Brilliant Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Cloud 9 White Clearcoat, Ebony, Infra-Red Clearcoat, Kona Blue Metallic, Liquid Grey Clearcoat Metallic, Natural Neutral Clearcoat Metallic, Red Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Arizona Beige Clearcoat Metallic, Frosted Glass Metallic, Light Tundra Clearcoat Metallic, Pueblo Gold Clearcoat Metallic, White Platinum Metallic Tricoat, Aqua Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Fort Knox Gold Clearcoat Metallic, Infra Red Clearcoat, Infra-Red Clear Coat, Kiwi Green Clearcoat, Light Ice Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Rainforest Green Clear Coat Metallic, Sangria Red Metallic, Twilight Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Vermillion Red Clearcoat, White Suede, Yellow Blaze Metallic Tri-Coat
Interior Colors: Charcoal Black Insert w/Warm Steel Surround cloth, Medium Light Stone cloth, Charcoal Black Surround w/Charcoal Black Insert leather, Warm Steel Surround w/Charcoal Black Insert cloth, Medium Soft Ceramic leather, Medium Dark Stone Surround w/Medium Light Stone Insert cloth, Tuscany Red Surround w/Charcoal Black Insert leather, Charcoal Black w/Metal Gray Surround cloth, Charcoal Black leather, Medium Light Stone w/Medium Dark Stone Surround cloth, Medium Stone cloth, Metal Gray/Charcoal Black Surround w/Charcoal Black Insert premium cloth, Charcoal Black w/Warm Steel Surround cloth, Medium Light Stone leather, Charcoal Black cloth, Medium Stone leather, Tuscany Red w/Charcoal Black Insert leather, Dark Charcoal, Dark Pebble Upper/Light Pebble Lower, Medium Graphite, Medium Parchment
Popular Features: Back-up camera, Post-collision safety system, Parking sensors, Sunroof/Moonroof, Heated seats, Power Driver Seat, Leather Seats, Remote Start, Keyless Entry/Start, Upgraded Engine, Aux Audio Inputs, Fold Flat Rear Seats, Rear Bench Seats, Stability Control, Tire Pressure Warning, Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, Trip Computer, Navigation, Alarm, Bluetooth, USB Inputs, Auto Climate Control, Multi-Zone Climate Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Upgraded Headlights, Mobile Internet, Upgraded Stereo
Engine/Mechanics: 4, 3 cylinders
Transmission: AUTOMATIC, AUTOMATED_MANUAL, MANUAL, DIRECT_DRIVE
Fuel Types: regular unleaded, flex-fuel (unleaded/E85), electric, premium unleaded (required)
Drivetrains: front wheel drive
Used 2012 Ford Focus Overview
The used 2012 Ford Focus is offered in the following submodels: Hatchback, Sedan, Electric. Available styles include SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M), SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M), and SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM). Pre-owned Focus models are available with a 0-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The used 2012 Focus comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 5-speed manual, 6-speed automated manual.
EPA Est. MPG | 30 |
Transmission | Manual |
Drive Train | Front Wheel Drive |
Displacement | 2 L |
Passenger Volume | 114.5 cu ft |
Wheelbase | 104 in |
Length | 171 in |
Width | 71 in |
Height | 57 in |
Curb Weight | 2920 lbs |
The Edmunds TCO® estimated monthly insurance payment for a Used 2012 Ford Focus in VA is:
The Edmunds TCO® estimated monthly insurance payment for a Used 2012 Ford Focus in VA is:
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