2016 Ford Focus: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2016 Ford Focus presented itself as a competent and well-rounded compact car, offering a compelling blend of practicality, engaging driving dynamics, and available technology. It continued Ford's tradition of delivering stylish and functional vehicles in the competitive C-segment.
Highlights
The 2016 Ford Focus aimed to impress with several key strengths:
- Engine Options: The Focus offered a variety of powertrains to suit different needs and preferences:
- 2.0L Duratec: The standard engine, providing a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily commuting.
- 1.0L EcoBoost (Optional): This turbocharged three-cylinder engine was a standout for its exceptional fuel economy and surprisingly peppy performance, especially in city driving.
- 2.3L EcoBoost (Focus RS): For performance enthusiasts, the top-tier Focus RS boasted a potent turbocharged engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration and track-ready capabilities.
- 2.3L EcoBoost (Focus ST): The performance-oriented Focus ST also featured a turbocharged engine, offering a sporty driving experience without the extreme nature of the RS.
- Safety Features: Ford equipped the 2016 Focus with a suite of safety technologies designed to protect occupants:
- MyKey: Allows parents to set restrictions for younger drivers, such as limiting top speed and radio volume.
- Rearview Camera: Standard on all trims, aiding in reversing and parking.
- Available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Uses radar to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them when backing out of a parking space with approaching traffic.
- Available Lane Keeping System: Monitors lane markings and can provide steering assistance to help the driver stay within their lane.
- Available Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking: Uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and can alert the driver and even apply the brakes automatically to mitigate or avoid an accident.
- Trim Levels: The 2016 Focus was available in several trims, each offering a different level of features and refinement:
- S: The base model, providing essential features for a no-frills driving experience.
- SE: A step up from the S, adding more comfort and convenience features.
- Titanium: The premium mainstream trim, offering a more upscale interior and advanced features.
- ST: The sport-tuned variant, equipped with performance enhancements and a more aggressive styling.
- RS: The ultimate performance model, featuring an all-wheel-drive system, a more powerful engine, and track-focused suspension.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Engaging Handling: The Ford Focus is renowned for its agile and responsive handling, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads.
- SYNC 3 Infotainment (Optional): Available on higher trims, this user-friendly system offered smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), voice commands, and a responsive touchscreen.
- Stylish Exterior Design: The 2016 Focus featured a modern and attractive exterior, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
What to Expect
A typical ownership experience with a 2016 Ford Focus generally involves a reliable and practical compact car.
- Ownership Experience: The Focus is known for its comfortable ride quality and relatively quiet cabin for its class. Its size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments and park. The interior is well-laid out, and depending on the trim level, can offer a pleasant and feature-rich cabin.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, is generally straightforward and comparable to other vehicles in its segment. The 1.0L EcoBoost engine, while efficient, may require specific maintenance procedures due to its turbocharged nature. It's advisable to follow Ford's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2016 Ford Focus will vary depending on factors such as the driver's age, location, driving record, and the specific trim level chosen. Performance-oriented trims like the ST and RS will likely incur higher insurance premiums due to their increased power and potential for spirited driving.
Potential Considerations
While the 2016 Ford Focus has many positives, potential buyers should be aware of a few drawbacks:
- PowerShift Transmission (Early Models): Some earlier models of the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, particularly those paired with the 2.0L Duratec engine, experienced some reports of jerky shifting and occasional hesitation. While Ford addressed some of these issues through software updates and recalls, it's something to be mindful of when considering a used model.
- Rear Seat Space: While adequate for most, the rear seat space in the Focus is not as generous as some of its competitors, which could be a consideration for families with older children or those who frequently transport adult passengers in the back.
- Infotainment System (Pre-SYNC 3): Models equipped with Ford's older MyFord Touch infotainment system could be less intuitive and responsive compared to the later SYNC 3 system.
- Road Noise: While generally quiet, some drivers have noted a degree of road noise intrusion at highway speeds, particularly on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Ford Focus stands out as a highly competent and enjoyable compact car. It offers a compelling mix of engaging driving dynamics, a stylish design, and a range of available technology and safety features. With its diverse powertrain options, including the exceptionally fuel-efficient 1.0L EcoBoost and the potent performance of the ST and RS models, there's a Focus to suit a variety of drivers. While potential buyers should be aware of the historical concerns with the PowerShift transmission in some configurations, the 2016 Ford Focus remains a strong contender in the compact car market, providing a well-rounded and often rewarding ownership experience.