A sales titan: more than 12 million units
Over its 27-year lifespan, the Focus achieved extraordinary volume: more than 12 million examples rolled off production lines worldwide. While built as a practical compact, the car’s success was far from purely mundane.
Although marketed primarily as an economical daily driver, the Focus nevertheless had an unmistakable enthusiast appeal — proving that practicality and passion can coexist.
Performance pedigree: ST & RS models
Ford didn’t stop at making the Focus practical. It introduced the ST in 2002 (beginning with the ST170), with stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and sharper styling. And then there was the legendary RS.
The Focus RS brought rally-car DNA to the road: turbocharged power, all-wheel drive, a manual gearbox, and a slide-friendly attitude. The RS500 limited edition remains a modern classic.
The end of the line
While the Focus RS bowed out in 2020, the standard Focus held on until September of this year. With that, Ford officially ends the chapter on a car that served multiple generations of drivers.
The decision reflects broader shifts within the company and the auto industry — from sedans and hatchbacks to crossovers and electric vehicles.
What this means for Ford
Once a leader in Europe, Ford now finds itself slipping in the ranks. The move to ditch stalwarts like the Fiesta and Focus has had consequences for its market share.
Though models like the Kuga and Puma fill parts of the gap, they haven’t matched the Focus’s legacy — especially in terms of driving enthusiast credentials and broad appeal.
Looking ahead: will there be a successor?
Rumors swirl about a possible Focus revival, but nothing is confirmed yet. It may never return as a traditional hatchback or sedan in its former form.
Until then, for many fans, it’s time to say farewell to a car that defined an era and leaves big shoes to fill.
Final thoughts
Whether you loved it or simply drove it for years, the Focus played a unique role in automotive history: part family car, part enthusiast machine, and always reliable. As Ford shifts toward new horizons, the Focus stands as a reminder of what made compact cars great.
Here’s to the Focus: may it be remembered for its versatility, its fun side, and above all its legacy.
