Ford’s 2013 Focus provides a decent driving experience with the base 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine, as well as the sporty Focus ST’s optional turbocharged EcoBoost with 252 horsepower. However, reliability may not meet the standards expected from an affordable daily driver.
Key Points
- The 2013 Ford Focus’s standard, 160-horsepower 2.0L engine is offered across three trims: S, SE, and Titanium.
- The performance-focused ST models sport a turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost engine, delivering 252 horsepower at a much higher cost.
- Both engines in the 2013 Focus models face serious reliability issues, including multiple recalls related to engine wiring.
- While both engines make for an enjoyable driving experience, neither are very reliable, making models from 2015 or newer a better choice.
2.0L GDI Inline-four Engine is Standard on Most 2013 Ford Focus Models and Provides Reasonable Power and Fuel Efficiency
The 2013 Ford Focus S, SE, and Titanium models are equipped with the 2.0L GDI inline-four-cylinder, producing 160 horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. of torque.
The driving experience with the inline-four is reasonably sporty for an economy car and provides drivers with good power for city driving. Consumer Reports notes that the Focus equipped with the 2.0L GDI handles well, but notes that the transmission stumbles at slow speeds.
“The engine has pretty good pull,” comments Redline Reviews while testing a 2013 Ford Focus with the 2.0L non-turbo engine. “This is a compact car, so, it’s not going to overwhelm you with power, that’s what the ST is for. As just the base engine, this thing is much more powerful than a Corolla or a Honda Civic.”
The fuel economy of the 2.0L GDI is competitive for the compact class, at 27/36 city/highway. As a Flex-Fuel vehicle on E85, the Focus will perform at about 23 miles per gallon combined city highway.
The primary Focus models with the 2.0L GDI are the least expensive, with Kelley Blue Book showing the three models ranging from $5,161 all the way to $10,333 depending on mileage and model. The higher end of the price range includes the top Titanium trim, which will provide the best amenities, but is still equipped with the same entry-level four-cylinder.
2.0L EcoBoost Turbo Makes Driving the 2013 Ford Focus a Thrill, but Used-car Pricing is Significantly Higher
The second engine for the 2013 Ford Focus lineup is the 2.0L EcoBoost. This turbocharged engine is only found on the ST hatchback model, which practically stands in a class of its own.
The 2.0L EcoBoost produces 252 horsepower, 270 lb.-ft. of torque and is backed by a five-speed manual transmission. As tested by Motor Trend, the EcoBoost launches the ST from zero to 60 in 5.9 seconds and to 100 mph in 15.9 seconds. Motor Trend also noted in their review that the power of the EcoBoost provides a great driving experience with impressive handling.
Fuel economy for the ST takes a hit, rated at 23 city, 31 highway. A decent rating for the substantially more powerful engine, but less economical than other Focus models. Through, fuel economy likely isn’t a top priority for those looking to purchase the sportiest Focus model.
As the Focus ST has fallen into the category of an enthusiast vehicle, rather than just a hatchback, the price for an ST with the EcoBoost is by far the highest among 2013 Focus models. Kelley Blue Book’s fair market range for a 2013 Focus ST is $14,150 to $16,637, far above any of the other Focus models.
2013 Focus is Troubled by a Number of Problems, Heavily Impacting its Reliability
Unfortunately, while both engine offerings provide a pleasant driving experience and good power, the 2013 Ford Focus is not a reliable car, with a number of recalls and over three hundred engine-related registered complaints.
The 2013 Focus has 10 recalls, several of which impact engine systems. Two recalls involve spliced engine wiring, which can cause the engine to stall. Additionally, the 2013 Focus has been recalled due to stuck canister purge valves, causing the engine to stall without the ability to restart.
Dealers can address both issues, but the problems are a significant safety concern and don’t end there, as the Focus has been recalled six other times. Reliability and safety issues such as these have led J.D. Power to give the 2013 Focus a below-average 66/100 rating for quality and reliability. Additionally, verified owner reviews show that the 2013 Focus has even more significant problems beyond the engine stalling, primarily, serious transmission issues.
2013 Ford Focus Engine Options are Both a Joy to Drive, but Reliability Concerns Make them Risky to Own
The Ford 2013 Ford Focus will appeal to two groups of individuals, those looking for a fuel-efficient, compact daily driver, and those looking for a sporty hatchback.
While pleasant to drive, neither 2013 Ford Focus engine option offers solid reliability. Shoppers looking for a Focus sedan should consider models from 2015 or newer, which have significantly better reliability ratings.
Photos: Ford
