Ford Ends Focus Production After 27 Years

Ford has officially wrapped up production of the Focus lineup, closing the book on a 27-year run that saw more than 12 million cars sold. The decision to discontinue the model was first announced back in 2022, as the automaker pushed to speed up the transition of its European portfolio toward fully electric vehicles.

“Although the Focus is no longer being built, Ford plans to fill the gap with a new midsize crossover slated to debut in 2027,” the company said in a statement.

A Look Back at the Ford Focus

The Focus story began in the late 1990s, when Ford set out to refresh its image and deliver a compact car for the European market that blended technology, comfort, and a bold design. The first-generation Focus arrived in 1998 as a replacement for the Ford Escort. It immediately stood out with its daring “New Edge” styling—sharp body lines, distinctive headlights, and a look that contrasted sharply with the more conservative competitors of the era. Its fresh, modern feel helped it become an instant hit.

The debut model quickly earned praise from both reviewers and drivers. It won European Car of the Year and picked up numerous awards for its handling. A big part of that reputation came from its innovative rear suspension—an independent multi-link setup known as Control Blade—which gave the Focus precise cornering abilities more commonly found in pricier performance cars. These engineering choices helped set a new benchmark for compact vehicles and forced rivals to raise their game.

The second generation, released in 2004, built on that momentum with more features and greater comfort. While the styling became more understated, the Focus remained one of Europe’s top-selling cars. Around this time, Ford also leaned heavily into performance variants, such as the Focus ST and Focus RS. These models quickly gained a dedicated following thanks to their turbocharged engines, upgraded brakes, and aggressive appearance. The second-generation Focus RS, powered by a distinctive five-cylinder engine, earned a special place in enthusiast circles for both its sound and its performance.

The third generation, unveiled in 2010, marked the point when the Focus became a truly global model. Ford aimed to unify production worldwide, meaning the car was essentially the same across most markets. It added advanced safety features, better aerodynamics, and new driver-assistance technologies. This era also brought one of the most iconic versions in the lineup—the all-wheel-drive Focus RS with Drift Mode, which quickly became a cult favorite among performance-minded drivers.

One notable piece of trivia: for many years, the Ford Focus consistently ranked among the best-selling cars on the planet. It also saw extensive use in motorsport—from rally racing to touring car championships—further cementing its image as a dynamic, reliable vehicle. In the end, the Focus became a symbol of attainable driving fun, proving that a compact car could be practical, stylish, and genuinely exciting all at once.