FORD Focus 3 Doors 1998-2001 Photos, engines & full specs

Ford Focus was a true, love-it or hate-it car, due to its controversial look and the new-edge styling promoted by American brand with other vehicles such as Puma or Cougar.

In 1999, Ford stormed the Geneva Motor Show with the introduction of the Focus. It was one of the most awaited models for the European compact-segment and an important competitor for the Volkswagen Golf. The new design idea brought the car into attention and completed it with its engineering solutions.

The 3-door hatchback offered a dynamic look due to its long rear, side windows, and ascending beltline. At the front, the triangular-shaped headlight, with curved lines, emerged into sharp angles at the front, which was part of the new-edge-design philosophy. An arched roofline ended into a curved, sloped tailgate was a step forward than its competitors. Its taillights were mounted high on the D-pillars, being protected from small dents in the parking lots.

Inside, the new-edge-design language was continued on the dashboard. The upper lines of the instrument cluster emerged in sharp angles with the rest of the panel. Its rear seats offered good legroom and headroom. Due to the rear independent suspension, the trunk was not the biggest in its class, but that layout was needed to increase comfort.

Ford installed a wide choice of diesel and gasoline engines, which was paired as standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox. A 4-speed automatic was on the options list for specific engines. Due to its independent suspension in all corners, the Focus was a benchmark in its car-segment for the cornering speed.