
Ford Focus engines, drive and performance

- 2025 sees just two mild-hybrid engines available
- No plug-in hybrid or electric option
- Excellent six-speed manual gearbox
Ford Focus petrol engines
At the time of writing in August 2025, the Ford Focus engine range has been reduced to just two versions of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol in the UK. Both feature mild-hybrid assistance.
The cheapest option produces 125hp. Performance isn’t exactly sparkling but, because it’s turbocharged, you don’t need to thrash the engine to get up to speed. Above that, there’s a 155hp version of the same engine which is quicker but slightly less responsive than the lower-power model.
Every 1.0-litre unit requires you to work the six-speed manual gearbox often to keep the engine spinning quickly enough to stay in its power band. However, this isn’t a bad thing, as Ford manual transmission is up there with the best in the business, offering a slick shift.
If none of these engines offer enough poke for your needs, you can step up again to the Focus ST hot hatchback. This is powered by a 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces a meaty 280hp and 420Nm of torque – enough to sprint from 0–62mph in 5.7 seconds.
Ford Focus diesel engines
If you want a diesel-powered Ford Focus now you’ll need to shop for a used car. The last model offered following the 2022 facelift was a 120hp 1.5-litre four-cylinder unit – and, while this wasn’t as sweet as the petrols, it’s a little more relaxing if you let the 300Nm of torque (pulling power) do most of the work for you.

What’s it like to drive?
- Superb handling and driveability
- Easy to handle around town
- Ride quality is very impressive
Superb handling has always been a hallmark of the Ford Focus – and we’re happy to report that the latest model is no exception. Originally there were two rear suspension set-ups to choose from, with a basic variant on the majority of the models and an upgraded multi-link arrangement fitted to higher-spec ST-Line models.
Since the range is reduce to Active and ST-Line variants now, the standard set-up is no longer available. But if you’re buying used, don’t be put off by this. There’s a beautifully judged balance between composure and stiffness in the chassis, meaning even the bumpiest of Britain’s B-roads won’t be able to unsettle the Focus during an enthusiastic drive. The steering is well weighted, and it’s sharp and accurate, too.
The upgraded multi-link rear-suspension set-up fitted to ST-Line models does, however, make the Focus one of the best-handling cars in the medium-sized hatchback class. Though you will pay for the privilege with slightly stiffer ride quality, which reduces comfort.
In terms of what’s available new now, the sporty ST-Line models are lower and harsher, while Active variants are taller and softer. The former can be a little tiresome on long motorway journeys and the latter can be overcome by severe bumps, which sends shudders through the cabin. In other words, it’s a shame the standard set-up used by the discontinued Trend and Titanium models has gone by the wayside, as it offers the best balance of handling and comfort.
All Ford Focus models come fitted with a drive mode selector with three different settings – Normal, Sport and Eco. Cars fitted with adaptive dampers also feature Comfort and Comfort Eco settings, while the off-road focussed Active model gets an off-road function. Each mode tweaks the accelerator sensitivity, steering weighting, gearbox (automatic only) and adaptive cruise control (when fitted) settings.