• 2013 Ford Focus Electric

• Used Ford Focus Electric

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Ford Focus Electric U.S. News Best Cars 7.9
Critics' Rating:	7.6
Performance:	7.6
Interior:	8.0
Safety:	10.0
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• No major changes

Pros & Cons

• Spacious cabin
• Good acceleration
• Drives like a gas-only car

• Lacks cargo space
• Grabby brakes

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric ranks 7 out of 11 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Focus Electric, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

While test drivers say the 2013 Ford Focus Electric’s performance is similar to the gas-only version, they say its range and small cargo area limit its usefulness.

The all-electric 2013 Ford Focus has an electric motor that makes 143 horsepower, a lithium-ion battery and a single-speed automatic transmission. Auto reviewers are impressed with the Focus Electric’s off-the-line acceleration. Overall, some test drivers find the Focus Electric’s  performance comparable to the gas-only Focus because of its sharp steering and minimal body roll. There are a few complaints about the brakes, which feel grabby, though that’s a common trait among hybrid and electric vehicles. According to the EPA, the Focus Electric gets 110/99 mpg-e city/highway. The Focus Electric has a 76-mile range, which is how far it can travel on a fully-charged battery. Reviewers think this distance is good.

The automotive press thinks the 2013 Focus Electric’s cabin offers plenty of passenger space, but there are some complaints about the car’s lack of cargo room. According to one reviewer, there isn’t enough space behind the rear seats to store a golf bag. The Focus Electric is expensive, but that also means it comes with a lot of standard features. It comes with tech items like HD Radio, satellite radio, navigation and Ford’s MyTouch infotainment system. Most reviewers don’t comment on these interior features, though one says that all but the MyTouch system is easy to use. Reviewers also don’t mention interior quality, but say the similar gas-only Focus is attractive and well-made.

• "Perhaps the biggest win for the Electric is that it largely acts the same as any Focus you'll find at a Ford dealer - it's comfortable, nicely appointed, handsome and quite engaging to drive." -- Autoblog (2012)
• "Like every other pure electric car to date, the Focus Electric comes with a whole host of compromises. It costs more than a typical Focus, doesn't go nearly as far and lacks the precise driving dynamics that make the standard hatchback such a gem." -- Edmunds (2012)

Other Cars to Consider

The Chevrolet Volt, which costs about as much as the Focus Electric, offers the fuel savings of an electric car along with the unlimited range of a gas engine. The Volt can be powered by the gas engine when the battery needs to be charged, which isn’t possible with the all-electric Focus. If you’re interested in the Volt, keep in mind that it seats four and has fewer standard features.

The Nissan Leaf is less expensive than the Focus Electric and comes with just as many standard features. On the downside, reviewers say that its rear seats are cramped for adults. The Leaf’s range also isn’t has high as the Focus Electric’s.

Compare the Focus Electric, Volt and Leaf »

Details: 2013 Ford Focus Electric

The five-seat 2013 Ford Focus Electric is a hatchback that comes in one-well equipped trim. It also has an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and a single-speed automatic transmission. There are two ways to charge the Focus Electric: a regular 120-volt outlet or an optional home charging station, which has a faster charging time. The Ford Focus Electric hasn’t changed much since it debuted for the 2012 model year, so this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2012 and 2013.

See the full 2013 Ford Focus Electric specs »