The Ford Focus is a compact car that is available in a range of configurations, including three- and five-door hatchbacks and a four-door sedan. This is a great car for many drivers due to its affordability, versatility, and fuel economy, but it’s not the only great option from this manufacturer. The Fiesta — a subcompact car — is another model prized for its price and efficiency, and it’s also available in sedan and hatchback configurations. So how can you decide which is better for you?
Here’s a closer look at what customers should consider to help choose between the 2017 Ford Focus and the 2017 Ford Fiesta.
Standard Features and Price
Setting your budget and deciding what’s essential in a new car versus what you can do without is a good place to start. If you’re aiming for the lowest price possible and don’t plan on upgrading to higher trim levels, start by considering what’s available at the base level.
The Focus S Sedan has an MSRP starting at $16,775. It comes with a 2.0L Ti-VCT direct-injection I-4 engine and a five-speed manual transmission. The Fiesta S model, however, has a starting MSRP of $13,660. It comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission and a 1.6-liter Ti-VCT I-4 engine. Both base models include Ford’s SYNC technology.
Fuel Efficiency and Utility
Of course, the sticker price isn’t the only thing that factors into how much you’ll actually pay for the vehicle. If fuel economy is your priority, you may lean toward the Focus Electric Hatch (all Fiestas get roughly the same gas mileage). The Electric Hatch can save you a good chunk of cash over time.
You’ll also need to consider what exactly you want to use the vehicle for. For example, if you need a daily commuter to get you downtown for work, fuel efficiency and safety might be the most important features. However, if you plan on running errands with young children or want some extra space for camping or travelling, you should consider the cargo room in these builds:
- The Focus ST Hatch. All 2017 Ford Focuses seat five people. This configuration, however, offers the most cargo volume: 43.9 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 23.8 cubic feet behind the second row.
- The Focus RS Hatch. This trim is a good alternative, with slightly less space behind the first and second rows (43.8 and 19.9 cubic feet, respectively).
- The Fiesta Hatchback. This is the best Fiesta option if space is not critical for you. The Hatchback has 25.4 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 14.9 cubic feet behind the second row.
The Look and Feel of the Vehicle
Online research is vital to a new car purchase, but it can only take you so far. Eventually, you’ll have to get behind the wheel and consider how the car feels to you. Though this is more subjective than looking at the specs, it’s incredibly important. You’ll likely be putting many miles on the vehicle over several years, so don’t underestimate your first impression. Check out the inventory in your area, and schedule a visit to see the 2017 Ford Focus and the 2017 Fiesta in person.
“2017 Ford Focus Titanium” by Loganville Ford
