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Why did Ford stop making the Focus?

Ford Motor Company announced in 2018 that it would be discontinuing production of the Ford Focus compact car in North America by 2020. This decision was part of a broader strategic shift by the automaker to focus more on producing SUVs, crossovers, and trucks rather than traditional passenger cars.


Declining Demand for Compact Cars


The primary reason Ford stopped making the Focus was the declining consumer demand for compact cars in the United States and Canada. As consumer preferences shifted towards larger vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks, sales of compact cars like the Focus steadily declined. According to industry data, compact car sales in the U.S. fell by over 30% between 2012 and 2017.


This trend was not unique to the Focus - other automakers also scaled back or discontinued their compact car models during this period as they struggled to compete with the surging popularity of crossovers and SUVs.


Shift to Trucks and SUVs



  • Ford decided to reallocate its resources and manufacturing capacity towards more profitable vehicle segments, namely trucks, SUVs, and crossovers.

  • The automaker wanted to focus on producing models that were better aligned with consumer demand and preferences in the North American market.

  • By discontinuing the Focus, Ford could free up production capacity to build more of its popular F-150 pickup truck and Expedition and Explorer SUV models.


This strategic shift allowed Ford to improve its overall profitability and better position itself to compete in the changing automotive landscape.


Global Restructuring


Ford's decision to stop making the Focus in North America was also part of a broader global restructuring effort by the company. The automaker announced plans to phase out most of its traditional passenger car models worldwide, including the Focus, in favor of more SUVs and trucks. This global restructuring was aimed at improving Ford's financial performance and competitiveness.


While the Focus is no longer produced in North America, it continues to be sold in other global markets where consumer demand for compact cars remains stronger.

Why did Ford discontinue the Ford Focus?


Ford decided to stop making the Focus in North America primarily due to shifting consumer preferences towards SUVs and trucks. The company announced in 2018 that it would discontinue most of its sedan lineup, including the Focus, as part of a broader strategy to focus on more profitable vehicles.



Why did Ford discontinue the Fusion?


The dwindling sales were the main reason Ford discontinued the Ford Fusion. One of the main reasons behind the Ford Fusion never taking off the shelves was the high price points offered by Ford. Yet another reason was that Ford offered a plain-looking vehicle for the price range.



Why did Ford get rid of Focus?


Ford wanting to move assembly of the Focus to China (as its already being built there) and was originally supposed to keep them going but after the latest tariffs, its no longer cost effective to do so and decided to ax the whole thing.



What is the main problem of Ford Focus?


The most common Ford Focus problems include fluctuating engine revolutions per minute (RPM), pre-ignition at low speeds, and engine stalling.



What year is bad for Ford Focus?


What Are Ford Focus Years To Avoid? Some Focus model years have more issues than others, and those from 2001-2003 and 2012-2013 are cars to avoid if you are in the market for a used vehicle. Many of these models are at the center of multiple recalls and legal action.



What is the most reliable car model?


Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models

  • Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
  • Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
  • BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.



Will Ford ever bring back the Ford Focus?


Sadly though, it's on its very last legs: the current fourth-generation Focus was revealed back in 2018, facelifted in 2022 and won't be replaced when it goes off-sale at the end of 2025.



What car will replace the Ford Focus?


Ford's replacement for the Focus will probably be a Golf with a different front grille, since VW is Ford's go to manufacturer for it's recent new vehicles. I like the new KIA front end design. It's a bold one and very different from anything else out there.



What car is equivalent to a Ford Focus?


Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen Golf
For many families, the Golf is the default choice thanks to its all-round ability.



Which year to avoid Ford Focus?


What Are Ford Focus Years To Avoid? Some Focus model years have more issues than others, and those from 2001-2003 and 2012-2013 are cars to avoid if you are in the market for a used vehicle. Many of these models are at the center of multiple recalls and legal action.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.