Excellent comparison. I think the Mazda carries a more premium look and the Ford tries to wear a sporty look. Mazda seem to have proven they can move forward without the backing of a larger company unlike Mitsubishi. It will be interesting to see what the MS3 would be like. I still have my eye on the Focus ST. Overall I think both cars are great and offer a lot of choises and will come down to individual preference.
I love how this "dated" Focus, which has been around since 2011(we're in the 2nd quarter of 2014) leaves so much to be desired. I get it, the Mazda3 is all new and better, but by their own admission, the cars are VERY similar. Instead of nit-picking the Focus for very minimal short comings; one might just say that the Mazda3 is more so a step up, from what was a benchmark that was set for the compact class, by the Ford Focus.
Mazda 3 is a great car for countries with great roads but I still think the world's best selling car is a legend on its own and has weight that makes it shine even in the phase of tuff competition
I'll take the Focus. I'm doing 40.5 mpg, cornering on rails, and very quick when it needs to be. The hatch holds all my outdoor gear, and my bike rack fits great on the lid. Styling over previous generations is hot. A+ to Ford. ALL GOOD HERE.
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
Nice video! Having been a previous Ford owner, I rented the Focus hatch and truly disliked it. I bought the 2014 Mazda3 instead and it was the best purchase I've ever made! It is a 5 star IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The Mazda3 has also won so many awards. I am amazed by this car and the constant recognition it receives; it seems to be awarded a new title weekly. I could've bought any car, and I bought the MZ3.
I can't speak for the mazda 3, but the ford focus MPG numbers are understated. On crappy no name brand lowest octane unleaded I average over 40 on the freeway. I usually am within the 42-43 mark doing 75. I can stay constant at 39 at 85 with cruise on. Around the city I get 36. My average tank usually ends up at 37 or so.
Biggest difference? The fully-loaded Focus(titanium hatch w/ moon roof, navi, park assist, & red metallic paint) I take delivery of next month will cost me $22K($5K rebate), whereas I couldn't price a similarly equipped Mazda 3 after rebate for less than $29K(i GrandTouring auto w/tech package and a few a`la carte options). I would have chosen the 3 if not for that massive price disparity; $7K+ is far too much of a gap.
This less a comparison and more a how much I love the mazda and dont like the ford, anything they didn't like about the mazda was a small complaint and coild be over looked or lived with the ford never got that treatment but I knew how this review was going in the first few secounds with how they talked about the mazda and first mention of the focus was followed with admittedly dated
I have a 2014 focus se. Love love the car. The clutch works as a manual even though it's automatic. It gets annoying sometimes. They have the tcm software update for it. Waiting for the dealership to get it in cause they're so backed up. But it's a quick car looks sporty. Despite the shudder it is a good car to drive
I have a 2014 5-speed focus se with the sports package, and I can pull on my friends 2012 mk6 gti until he hits boost. It really shines in the mid range for what it is, not slow as you would imagine.
I have the same car but 2013. If you bypass the clutch switch it gives the car a lot more go, especially at lower rpms. Couldn't believe the difference.
I would buy the Mazda 3 just for the looks. The Ford needs a major update to catch up in exterior design. What are the 0-60 times for both cars by the way?
Ford needs to fix the transmission issues. So far since May 2011, had my TCM, PCM and ABS computers reprogrammed. Now I get JERK FORWARD at low speeds only at the gas station every once in a while, and some shudder like noises but cant feel anything. So they sent me a RECALL about transmission having bad SEALS if you experience SHUDDERS at LOW SPEEDS and Ford will replace them FREE OF CHARGE and will EXTEND the warranty on the transmission up to 7 years. Stick with a Honda.
Unless they did a mid year change that I am not aware of on the Ford Focus, the one they are using in this review is a 2013. The 2014 does not have the voice control paddle under the steering wheel on the right side, for 2014 it was put on the steering wheel eliminating the voice control paddle.
What they fail to mention is you can buy a Focus ST 2015 for LESS then a 2015 Mazda 3 Grand Touring with the 2.5. So really which is more bang for your buck?
Should I hold off on buying the new mazda3? All sales come with a lifetime 300,000 engine warranty but not sure cause I've heard a lot of electronic issues with it.
I ordered my 2014 Focus SE with a 5-speed manual and the Sport package (16 inch alloy wheels and rear disc brakes); best bang-for-the-buck. I don't need all the complicated electronic crap, or 17or 18 inch wheels that break over Spring pot-holes. Btw 160 hp is lots of power in a small car with a 5-speed; I have a Triumph Street Triple for high performance on the road.
The SFE is the same as the Sport version, I even have the rear spoiler only thing I don't have is the more adjusted suspension. I do however have the RECALLS reprogramming TCM PCM and ABS, and now another RECALL regarding SHUDDERING at low speeds for bad seals used. Ford says will replace for free. Should stuck with my 02 Civic, even at 110k Miles you could never tell that car was running, a few times I thought I forgot to start the engine and I got that noise where yep the engine was already started. I also was getting way better MPG, now my 2012 Focus I used to get 32.5 avg now 30.5 avg after all the reprogramming to "Make the Clunk noise go away leaving stoplights" when the car was new.
TekReview's Manufacturers often issue software updates for their vehicles and it is no big deal to have it done at the dealer for free at the same time they do the seal job. MPG is highly variable depending on weather and the driver's mood and route. I'd say Ford is treating you very well; get a few bugs ironed out, maintain your car and it will be very reliable. Honda Civic is a good car but boring. Check some Japanese car forums and you will find lots of problems too.
Our local Ford dealer is known for treating customers not very well, as well as overcharging for some things. Plus they have to small of a building the largest one is for the Toyota side. They have already programmed the computers in the last few months. The recall states that reprogramming might not solve the issue, I am sure it probably has to do with inferior rubber parts being used. It has happened before on other cars I have owned, and my gf's 03 Corolla they replaced her trim clips with the same old ones. They were supposed to replace them with NEW trim clips but some workers do not pay attention to details. After she had some repairs her drivers pillar plastic still falls open and you have to bang on it to get it to stay in place.
We bought a mazda 3 because it's just that good. The quality is just superb. By far the best looking and best quality. And I've had 2 mazdas before and they are bullet proof
LOL not at all. The car they tested here is almost 30,000 dollars. The focus they tested was probably about 25. You can get a Focus ST with racing seats and leave that mazda 3 in the dust for around 26. Brand new off the lot. The 3 is incredibly overpriced.
A Ford? LOL is correct. Too many quality issues. Also its a compact car for commuting. If I want a performance car I'll buy one of those and not settle for an ST pretending to be what its not. Thanks for the suggestion though.
The ST has no quality issues. The only focus quality issue is thanks to the transmission which is not used in the ST. The ST only has a manual.And you obviously haven't done your research because the Focus ST and Fiesta ST have gotten so much praise since they were launched that it is insane. They both were featured in multiple tests by motortrend competing with supercars for best handling car. They both have been named the best bang for your buck. You can get a Fiesta ST starting at like 21k and Focus ST starts at 25k. Both come pretty well optioned. BUT if you want to pay 30k for a compact car with no thrills in comparison, poor dealer network in comparison, and is incredibly overpriced be my guest. But you, buddy, are a stupid man.
So I comment that I want a Mazda and I must be buying the $30,000 version.? I can't opt for the GX? Its you, the stupid boy, that makes that assumption. Yeah those cars you mentioned won the 2014 car of the year? LOL. Ford Focus and Fiesta? Names that historically are renowned for quality in the auto industry. AAHAHAHHAHAHA! One doesn't have to dig too deep to find that the Mazda 3 won that car of the year accolade. Nicely researched... Jackass! AND on top of it all you're the incompetent, impotent child talking about how the Focus ST is faster. You're concerned that you have a faster 2 liter compact car than the next person. You're a fucking joke.
Even as a Ford guy I must admit that the new Mazda 3 is a great car,but there are gripes to Mazda 3 as well 1. The focus and Mazda both have almost same platform that's based on mk2 c platform of focus in Europe 2. Mazda 3 has 1 of worst cabin insulation in its class,face it even a Hyundai elantra is quieter than Mazda 3 3. The ride is too stiff for comfort,maybe America has good roads but here in Asia with all those pothole friendly roads Mazda is a pain in the ass specially 4 rear passengers
I love both cars! The 3 and Focus are super fun on a twisty road. But I have to stick with my trusty 2012 Jetta TDI. I mean it beats most cars off the line and I can still embarass a Prius with my fuel economy. My worst has been 38mpg when I did mainly city driving in the winter. But still. I cannot wait to see what these two offerings are like in 3 years when time comes to replace the Jetta.
Matt97 I'm full of it? I get 57-62mpg average on my 95% highway commute between two big cities. I have over 50k miles on my 2012 TDI and mpg is getting better and better while mpg on a lethargic prius will keep getting worse and worse due to the battery decreasing in life span. And clearly you know nothing about cars because estimates don't mean shit. If they did consumer reports wouldn't have gotten 36mpg combined in a Prius while the Jetta got 35. On the highway the Prius only managed 34mpg while the Jetta did 48mpg. Research your facts before you criticize, moron.
the TDI is slow as balls so your not touching anything off the line except a prius,lol. your 17.2 second 1/4 is not that impressive,lol. nice try go home, your drunk.
The focus always had heavy steering compared to a 3. I can tell you that mazda light steering because quite annoying after a while because it makes the car feel lose. I'm pretty sure I would personally like the steering better on the focus. I drove a 2012 with the sport package (something that this car should have for a good comparison) and it felt awesome. I own a 2008 mazda3 hatch with the 2.3 right now and before that I had an svt focus and the svt focus was just a blast. The mazda is just light unsettled and annoying.
That's because in 2008 Mazda was being built by Ford, that curse is now gone. And the review clearly said it the Mazda 3 is sportier to drive and has better steering feel.
Yeah, well the SVT focus was a completely different animal to the standard car and while the three was a pleasant enough car to drive it was a step down from the protege it replaced largely due to it's more pedestrian underpinnings. The new three is a revelation and no matter your preference for steering weight the Mazda helm communicates what the front axle is doing far better than the focus.
Well not all reviews comfirm what you guys say. Look at the everydriver review. They agree that the focus handles better. The mazda3 I've got wasn't built by ford, it's made in Japan by mazda. Mazda are using Ford's control blade read suspension. Anyway I like Mazda and you both are right I can't judge without actually driving the new one but I drove the 2012 Focus with the sport package which has better suspension and it was awesome seriously.
the svt was indeed a different beast. Not really powerful but man it feels expensive in the way it drive. My mazda feels cheap. Not bad but cheap. Many european reviews agree that the first gen mazda3 was not that great and less entertaining than the mk2 euro focus. Anyway my 3 is reliable and mildly sporty so I can't complain much.
***** yes! anyways the New Mazda 3 has gotten way more reliable and holds its value better well actually Mazda as a brand has gotten so much better now. Top safety pick plus, car and drivers top 10 best cars, Kelley blue book awards 2 years in a row for lowest cost to own, and now they hold their value better, i say the Focus is good but the Mazda3 is a much better car overall.
You essentially have to reteach yourself how to use the throttle with a dual clutch. The transmission is always trying to guess what you're going to do next, so if it guessed wrong it has to reselect the next gear and thats the jerk you feel. Once you adapt your driving style however it has incredibly smooth shifts, no loss of power, and you can essentially coast to a complete stop significantly improving the life of your brakes.
You are being mean . If the lisp annoys you quit watching the video. It is a speech impediment. He can't help it. It's like saying blue eyes are annoying
mark williams True, but should he really be in TH-cam videos for a major car reviewing company? If you have a speech impediment like that, you really should not be in the spotlight without expecting criticism.
I boat the Mazda 3hb and I like it a lot. The design and the driving is ofcourse the best part, but the ride is a bit stiff and noisy. Overall its great! Def zoom zoom
Another thing is the COMFORT I agree that Mazda handles well but over broken roads Mazda struggles to comfort the passenger like how the focus does,focus has an ability to cut the sharper edge off any jolt getting into cabin,ride quality if focus is way better tha mazdas
What about the dual clutch transmission failures on Ford Focus.I can't stop seeing complains about transmission failures and dual clutch automatic issues with any focus year 2008 and up. Are the same issues present in Mazda?
Comparing the outgoing model focus (a new much-more- than- a- refresh model that debuts in July in U.K. ) , with the quite-new Mazda 3 , is a bit of a not-so-level playing field don't you think ????
I agree...Ford is more of the trend setter and the others play catch up. Now the Focus has a new design coming out soon and I'm sure the driving dynamics are going to be even better that what already is a great handling car.
SashMar Robinson The current model focus handles well ; lovely weight to the steering . The incoming models dashboard looks a bit classy , less of a button-fest than the current model.
The Fords in Germany came out 3 years before the USA and they looked SO MUCH different inside than the crap they sell us Americans. At least with the Focus we got the world version of the car and not the dumbed down American job they used to do at Ford.
Its so crazy when you buy cars now & just last year 2013, the Ford Focus was #1 in interior & exterior looks according to most magazines & car web sites. Now its dated? I drove the mazda 3 to see what the hipe was about & there is not as much to talk about. I own a 2013 Ford Focus SE Hatch & its just as fun in driving & offers more, compared to the entry version Mazda 3. To each there own I guess.
so my titanium has the sync button on the wheel not underneath... is this a 2013? Honestly I don't like how the new Mazda's look... Not sure where they are coming from saying the Focus looks dated...
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
Really a two liter against a two point five. I had a two point three 2004 Ford Focus and that thing tore up the road! Come on Ford, When we want sporty we also mean fun to drive as well as responsive handling, and of course get up and go! I don't know why American car makers don't know this yet! -since the late 80's! I'm still waiting for manufactures to get with it!
Given manual is an option (is for me) and for that much money, I'd take a Ford Focus ST over both of these specific models. Jumping over to Ford's site has it starting at $23,625. Comes fairly loaded at the base price..
The one stand out feature that the FORD has over the Mazda is the interior NOISE LEVEL. Every Reviewer has said it's a busy noisy over comparable models which is a shame. Cause the Mazda 3 climbs over $30K and should show signs of quality all over.
Doesnt seem like a very fair comparison, comparing two completely different motors... I would like to see them compare the 2.0l motors, of course a 2.5 has more power than a 2.0.... if you want to compare the BEST motors, compare the ford focus ST to the 2.5 mazda... both cars look great, but to me it seems as though both these guys had a preference for mazda to begin with.
Okay, compare to the 2.0 Mazda then. It makes 155 hp. Very similar to the 159 in the Focus. And no, comparing the Mazda 2.5 to the Focus ST is not fair. It’s a turbocharged engine in the ST.
I really don't know what these bozos are babbling about. They've taken a very non-objective approach. They're shamelessly clamoring over the Mazda 3 throughout the video while constantly bashing the Ford Focus, basically saying whatever they can to sell the Mazda whether it makes sense or not. They keep saying how the Focus just "can't keep up" with its 2.0L 160 HP engine, as compared to the Mazda's 2.5L 184 HP engine. What these guys neglect to mention is that the 2.0L 160 HP engine on the focus is the BASE engine, available from $19k and up. The "comparative" engine on the Mazda 3 is only available for a mere... $25k! The base Mazda engine, the one that is available at $19k, is also a 2.0L and puts out only 155 HP. That is the base Focus's competition. If you want to dish out the kinda cash the higher end Mazda engine demands, you might as well get the Focus ST (which is an astonishing, full-fledged sport car with 2.0L 252 HP TURBO-CHARGED engine, and legendary handling). And you can get that for 3 thousand dollars cheaper. It's beyond me who would blow so much money on a 184 HP engine. The base v6 mustang is available at $22k with a blistering 302 HP, and the v6 Chevy Camaro available at $23k. Any car buff worth his salt would know all of this already; these fellas aren't fooling anyone.
It's a shame Mazda didn't went overboard with the interior. Specially the horrible looking steering wheel. The outside looks like an Infiniti. Other thing is that it ends up being more expensive than the Corolla because you have to pay extra for things that come standard in almost any other car in the segment. On the other hand, the Focus is a Ford, which means it will suck and become useless in less than 2 years.
The transmission issues are the only SUCK thing. I traded in my 02 Civic and wish I kept it, my gf kept badgering me to get a new car even though I liked my Civic, she's a Toyota nut and now she has Airbag issues to deal with.
The 2nd row in the 3 is tight. The slope of the hatch glass eats into the cargo area big time. The HUD is a joke and is generally blocked by the top of the steering wheel.
Also, the HUD is right where the windshield wipers would be so the background behind the HUD is very busy indeed. The HUD is practically useless in this car.
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
Nice Mazda sell, the focus comes in an ST that puts out 250 hp, and a 2.0L naturally aspirated that puts out 160 hp. If you were going to put a newly designed 2014 Mazda 3, against Ford’s old 2011 technology you could’ve at least compared apples to apples. The old 2 L from 2011 in the Ford focus still produces five more horsepower than Mazdas new 2014 2 L.
Not sure if this would change the results (probably not) but I previously owned a Focus Titanium Hatch and it came with the Titanium Handling Package which stiffens up the ride and I would be willing to bet it would pull to dead even in terms of handling when compared to the Mazda 3. Maybe the team could do a follow up review with the handling package? ;-)
Finally Mazda made a small car that doesn't look like a deranged mental patient with a clownish smile. If they can do the same with the Miata, maybe I'd buy one.
Mazda no doubt cause of the SkyActiv Tech Engines & WAY more reliable:) Way less cheap plastic interiors than the Ford. The interior&exterior kicks the Fords ass any day of the week..lol. Way more better gas mileage & more fun to drive:)
Justin Yau Where is this coming from?! The focus's interior looks fantastic! The only thing that bugs me at all is how easily the door panels get marks from my shoes.
G0REgoreGADGET The Focus interior is so ugly, cluttered & so outdated. I dont know about the new models but previous model use to use the stupid My Ford Touch Tech systems. So outdated&slow. The new 2015 focus interior still looks the same as the 2011 focus model..lol. So old..lol. Also the interiors are full of Hard Plastic materials that make it look so cheap. And they even market that the interiors are made up of Recycleable plastic bottles..LMAO 😂 All the new Focus, Fusions & Escape have had Reliability issues & thats why they haven't been selling for this reason alone. And I actual think all 3 models exterior looks amazing. And the interiors look good except for the Focus. Well the Focus interiors dont look as good as the competition now thats for sure. And the Focus built quality is shit. I have even seen some 2012 Focus models on TH-cam show how the steering wheel has shifted with pushing the horn & has shown the Tech system with the My Ford Touch screen just freeze in cold weather&he could only control his radio stations & couldnt even control the volume to turn it down..lol. Consumer Report listed its most reliable cars last yr. And Mazda was number 5. Ford wasnt even on the passing end & didnt even crack the top 20..lol. This yr Consumer Report jumped Mazda 2 spots & its now 3rd place. Just behind Lexus&Toyota. Which basically is the same company. So Mazda really is Number 2 in reliability. Japanese companies are known for being the most reliable & American brands are not. And if your even goin tell me that Ford is more reliable then U are so Bias buddy & U already proved that in your last comment cause U own a Focus..lol. Ford is especially known for having unreliable cars & they have a nickname for it FORD - Found On Road Dead Now Oldsmobile is a very reliable American brand but they no longer make them anymore.
Yeah.. I am biased. Ummm SO ARE YOU. I have no issue with the interior on my car. I'm not expecting a luxury sedan. It looks clean and it looks good. As far as reliability goes I will let you know in 150k miles. Have a feeling it won't be as bad as you think. I own a Chevy Trailblazer with 170k miles and the thing runs like the day I bought it. I like vehicles from the Asian and European market too don't get it twisted. I like the way the focus looks. I honestly think it looks better than the Mazda. By the way reliability should be judged based on model only... There are plenty of fantastic American vehicles out there. The gap with foreign manufacturers is getting a lot smaller.
G0REgoreGADGET Theres a reason why Toyota & Honda sell so many vehicles. They are built with good quality materials & build design is smarter so it wont fall apart. They do not use as much cheaper materials compared to some American brands like Ford. I wasnt surprised that CR in back to back yrs had Lexus&Toyota win for the top spots again. I owned a brand new 93 Toyota Camry. It lasted 2 freakin Decades. And it would have lasted even longer if I replaced the Timing belt. The car had zero rust & was tough as nails with barely any dents or damage. And in my time owning the car I had 2 complete strangers compliment me with my car on being good cause it was so reliable. I mean thats 2 freakin times that complete strangers say it cause they know its true..lol. And as far as Mazda 3 having the best interior in its class. The Mazda 3 could be put up against even the luxury brands like BMW & Audi..lol. Have U ever seen the interior of those Luxury cars??? Mazda 3 has the exact same look with their Touch screen on the Dashboard & the Control knob near the Gearshifts. Just like the Luxury brands like BMW & Audi..lol. So I don't know how U can be honest with urself & say the Focus interior is better without being Bias..lol? For god sake the Focus even markets its interior saying its made from cheap Plastic Recycleable bottles..lol. Even the Speedometer of the Mazda 3 is the only car in its class or non Luxury brands. That has the same look as the Super car McLaren Speedometer. I can agree A FEW American Brands are getting better in reliability. But compared to Jap brands. Not even close. Especially with the newer designs of the 2012 & newer models with the Focus, Fusions & Escapes. Even after just under 10,000 km. I heard the Escapes & Fusions couldnt hold up & fell apart. They were just built badly. The Tech was slow & many problems. Ford would have sold many of these Good looking cars. But looks werent enough & got scared off cause of the many problems they were having.
I'm disappointed that the mileage with these cars is so bad. My old Mazda 323 hatch [back when I had it] did the same thing. Not much changed except cars got fat and heavy.
Shallibodhran first of all, the 323 hatch, base model, has less than 100hp, second, its a 1.6L engine. Third, it doesnt do better, it actually matches them with the average fuel econ at around 31. Nvm the fact that both these cars are much more powerful.
Why is autoguide saying focus is showing it's age,it's not,it still looks modern and funky and European and most importantly it feels solid,unlike tin can feeling Japanese cars of course Mazda is exception
BoschExxcel I too think the same way pal, sure the new Mazda 3 is a great car, but I dont think its an outright winner over the Focus,I stay in Asia and we have pretty bad roads , even highways are fully broken and there is virtual moon craters on our roads, in these kinds of roads the Mazda was real disappointment 1. Mazdas ride was 2 stiff and it felt like it might break spine if we push it 2 much 2. The car had almost no cabin insulation, so the passengers in back seat complained heavily that they couldnt take a nap if they ever wanted 2 The Focus ride quality was much better and its cabin was super quiet compared to Mazda, only the VW golf has a better quietness than a Focus but its 2 damn expensive
The roads are really bad here in the UK. The Focus is a really comfortable car, no wonder the best selling cads here are the Ford Fiesta and Focus! The Gold is expensive, rubbish and hideous. I still think the Focus and new Peugeot 308 are the best hatchbacks on the market today.
BoschExxcel Aah i cant guarantee tht, I ve driven the new MK7 2.0 TDi,1.4 TSi,Gti,R as well and even as a Ford fanboy I willadmit that the new Golf is like in aleague of its own, its 2 good for Focus 2 fight against, only 2 areas Focus has the cards, Focus looks smarter and dosent look BOXY like Golf Focus handles better Other than that the new MK7 Golf is a revelation, I think its even better than the Audi A3, I really hope the facelifted Focus will bring Focus back n track, but I think it still cant beat the golf, Golf is super good now, Golfs seat comfort and ride quality made me think its like benchmark 4 hatch backs
A british investigation company made a test on 200.000 cars to define least problematic cars. 1-Mazda %17 2-Mercedes %25 3-Toyota %26 4-Honda %27 5-Mitsubishi %29 6-Volvo %30... List continues... This list shows mazda is a way much resisting than Ford. I have got a 84 model Suzuki alto. It s on 876.000 km. Still going. Not needed to renew the engine until now.
Ford Focus for me! I felt the Ford Focus felt better to drive than the Mazda 3. Also the pricing of the Mazda was higher. Big one for me.. MADE IN THE USA! Focus is a great American compact car. As far as styling, styling is always subjective to your personal taste. I felt the Focus had a more aggressive sporty look than the Mazda 3. Besides the new 2015 Focus now now re-styled..
Ford is shit...the infotainment system glitches out all the the time, and is no where near reliable. I will never trust an American car, probably only with they Chevy/GMC i have exceptions....
ghd bfb Ford cars may look better (although the look of the 2015 Sonata/Kia Optima is a lot better than Fusion...Toyota is boring but a lot better in terms of reliability...same with Hyyundai/Kia...they are becoming more and more reliable...Ford? Not so much.
Considering in 1999 Ford offered a 3.0L V-6 in the taurus with the same amount of horsepower I'd say that this 4 cylinder, which is down a half liter and 2 pistons is doing ok especially when you realize that its tuned for fuel efficiency and not power
Thank goodness time have progressed huh? But considering that Ford offer a 1.6 Litre EcoBoost unit wich can produce up to 180 Horsepower and still achieve something like 61mpg, the 2.5 SkyActiv is still painfully underpowered.
David A check out that engine's torque curve. It's almost flat, meaning you have high torque available at any rpm. The skyactiv engines are very smooth and provide a great punch at any rpm. Peak power figures only tell half the story. Numbers are for guys with big dicks and half erections.
Idiot. It's inline with midsize engine offerings while being as light as a compact all the while returning 29/38 MPG. How is that not impressive? This is a fun COMMUTER car, not a sports car or dragster, and stop comparing NA engines with turbo charged engines, it makes no sense.
Also if I am to be honest a better car than Mazda 3 and Ford focus is the VW jetta,because it has biggest cabin,easy to use controls,most comfortable and spacious back seat,biggest boot,1.8 tsi eats sky active for break fast,and again safe handling and best balance between stiffness and supplleness in suspension,not to mention the biggest boot as well
wonderwall135 true,that's the biggest reason why it isn't a sales success,but if sonei thinks logically jetta is unbeatable, just sacrifice little bit of drama to get a whole lot of room,power, comfort, etc
Brent C jetta is the car with biggest booot in class The jetta has best engine the 1.8 TSI is super eager and has no turbo lag and is fastest car to 120 mph among its competition Jetta has best gear ratios and best gear shift quality Jetta has the best ride quality among any compact sedans,its not as stiff as Mazda or Focus yet not wallowy and boat like as in a Corolla,Cruze,Elantra etc Jetta has interior space to rival a Maza 6,Ford Fusion,etc Jetta has average mpg as 32 mpg combined sure its 1 mpg less than Mazda 3 and same as Focus but who cares with all that turbo power you can beat the hell out of Mazdas 2.5 and Ford 2.0 i4 Jettas infotainment system can be controlled by even a 6 year old child so easy and 0 complication at all Exterior built quality of Jetta is superb,its a safe car to drive
There are a few problems with the current Jetta. The interior quality is worse than the last generation, with cheaper plastics that are hard to the touch. Also, VWs have a lot of catching up to do in the reliability department.
Comparison, what comparison? The deck was already stacked against the Ford Focus before the video began. This review was pure biased in favor of the 3.
Excellent comparison. I think the Mazda carries a more premium look and the Ford tries to wear a sporty look. Mazda seem to have proven they can move forward without the backing of a larger company unlike Mitsubishi. It will be interesting to see what the MS3 would be like. I still have my eye on the Focus ST. Overall I think both cars are great and offer a lot of choises and will come down to individual preference.
I love how this "dated" Focus, which has been around since 2011(we're in the 2nd quarter of 2014) leaves so much to be desired. I get it, the Mazda3 is all new and better, but by their own admission, the cars are VERY similar. Instead of nit-picking the Focus for very minimal short comings; one might just say that the Mazda3 is more so a step up, from what was a benchmark that was set for the compact class, by the Ford Focus.
I own a 2012 focus SEL and after 10 years it is still running very well. The Mazda didn't match up when I drove it which is why Ford got the sale.
His lisp is noticeable, but not unbearable. The voice recognition in the Ford understood him instantly...
My mom just got the Mazda 3 S Grand Touring Hatchback and its a really great car!!
Its fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, and it looks awesome!!
Mazda 3 is a great car for countries with great roads but I still think the world's best selling car is a legend on its own and has weight that makes it shine even in the phase of tuff competition
How are those Powershift transmissions doing these days?
Hot garbage is hot garbage.
I'll take the Focus. I'm doing 40.5 mpg, cornering on rails, and very quick when it needs to be. The hatch holds all my outdoor gear, and my bike rack fits great on the lid. Styling over previous generations is hot. A+ to Ford. ALL GOOD HERE.
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
My Mazda 6 diesel skyactive can get you to 72 mpg
Nice video! Having been a previous Ford owner, I rented the Focus hatch and truly disliked it. I bought the 2014 Mazda3 instead and it was the best purchase I've ever made! It is a 5 star IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The Mazda3 has also won so many awards. I am amazed by this car and the constant recognition it receives; it seems to be awarded a new title weekly. I could've bought any car, and I bought the MZ3.
I can't speak for the mazda 3, but the ford focus MPG numbers are understated. On crappy no name brand lowest octane unleaded I average over 40 on the freeway. I usually am within the 42-43 mark doing 75. I can stay constant at 39 at 85 with cruise on. Around the city I get 36. My average tank usually ends up at 37 or so.
The Focus is okay, but the Mazda is definitely more stylish and fuel efficient.
Biggest difference? The fully-loaded Focus(titanium hatch w/ moon roof, navi, park assist, & red metallic paint) I take delivery of next month will cost me $22K($5K rebate), whereas I couldn't price a similarly equipped Mazda 3 after rebate for less than $29K(i GrandTouring auto w/tech package and a few a`la carte options). I would have chosen the 3 if not for that massive price disparity; $7K+ is far too much of a gap.
This less a comparison and more a how much I love the mazda and dont like the ford, anything they didn't like about the mazda was a small complaint and coild be over looked or lived with the ford never got that treatment but I knew how this review was going in the first few secounds with how they talked about the mazda and first mention of the focus was followed with admittedly dated
@Jericho Wayne shut up bots
I have a 2014 focus se. Love love the car. The clutch works as a manual even though it's automatic. It gets annoying sometimes. They have the tcm software update for it. Waiting for the dealership to get it in cause they're so backed up. But it's a quick car looks sporty. Despite the shudder it is a good car to drive
I have a 2014 5-speed focus se with the sports package, and I can pull on my friends 2012 mk6 gti until he hits boost. It really shines in the mid range for what it is, not slow as you would imagine.
Honest, Maybe he got a bad launch haha.
I have the same car but 2013. If you bypass the clutch switch it gives the car a lot more go, especially at lower rpms. Couldn't believe the difference.
now i want that next gen mazdaspeed3 to hit the dealers.
I would buy the Mazda 3 just for the looks. The Ford needs a major update to catch up in exterior design. What are the 0-60 times for both cars by the way?
Ford already has a update for it
Ford needs to fix the transmission issues. So far since May 2011, had my TCM, PCM and ABS computers reprogrammed. Now I get JERK FORWARD at low speeds only at the gas station every once in a while, and some shudder like noises but cant feel anything. So they sent me a RECALL about transmission having bad SEALS if you experience SHUDDERS at LOW SPEEDS and Ford will replace them FREE OF CHARGE and will EXTEND the warranty on the transmission up to 7 years. Stick with a Honda.
Also the Mazda 3 is a top safety pick from the IIHS & is on Car and Drivers top 10 best cars. Zoom Zoom
rust rust
Unless they did a mid year change that I am not aware of on the Ford Focus, the one they are using in this review is a 2013. The 2014 does not have the voice control paddle under the steering wheel on the right side, for 2014 it was put on the steering wheel eliminating the voice control paddle.
Why in the world would they compare the Mazda with the optional 2.5L engine vs the standard 2.0L engine in the Ford?
Because the focus doesn't come with anything else unless it is an ST or on the opposite end an electric focus.
That's prob why.
Yeah but an ST is still a focus@@D0nut97
Also my ford has a sunroof 😂❤
Thanks for the useful information. You point out all the thing's of great importance. It make's looking for a new car much easier.
What they fail to mention is you can buy a Focus ST 2015 for LESS then a 2015 Mazda 3 Grand Touring with the 2.5. So really which is more bang for your buck?
***** Mazda 3 considering it's luxurious features compared to the focus.
Jeromy Green An ST is loaded and comes with Recaro's. What "luxurious" features does a Mazda 3 really have? lol
Ah yes, you're right. I thought you were talking about the SE model or one of the lower end base models of the focus. Didn't see the ST haha
Sit your ass in a mazda and test drive it. Then you'll know how stupid you sound.
smsuperman Sit your ass in a focus st then you'll know how stupid you sound...
I love how every 2014 mazda3 comes standard with nav and backup camera.
+Cam Blah Are you sure about that? I think the lowest trim model only comes with a standard radio at least in the 2014 year.
Native722 no, i think they all come with it, just the lowest trim needs a chip for the GPS to work which most mazda dealerships try to sell for 350USD
@@DarthProlif base model does not have NAV or a proper screen. Radio / CD player only. I have one.
The infotainment and the 'heads-up' display in the 3 looks very aftermarket.
Should I hold off on buying the new mazda3? All sales come with a lifetime 300,000 engine warranty but not sure cause I've heard a lot of electronic issues with it.
Why doesn't autoguide ever review the manuals? They are still the driver's choice.
They can't drive em😂
@@LWNDmax true
I ordered my 2014 Focus SE with a 5-speed manual and the Sport package (16 inch alloy wheels and rear disc brakes); best bang-for-the-buck. I don't need all the complicated electronic crap, or 17or 18 inch wheels that break over Spring pot-holes. Btw 160 hp is lots of power in a small car with a 5-speed; I have a Triumph Street Triple for high performance on the road.
The SFE is the same as the Sport version, I even have the rear spoiler only thing I don't have is the more adjusted suspension. I do however have the RECALLS reprogramming TCM PCM and ABS, and now another RECALL regarding SHUDDERING at low speeds for bad seals used. Ford says will replace for free. Should stuck with my 02 Civic, even at 110k Miles you could never tell that car was running, a few times I thought I forgot to start the engine and I got that noise where yep the engine was already started. I also was getting way better MPG, now my 2012 Focus I used to get 32.5 avg now 30.5 avg after all the reprogramming to "Make the Clunk noise go away leaving stoplights" when the car was new.
TekReview's Manufacturers often issue software updates for their vehicles and it is no big deal to have it done at the dealer for free at the same time they do the seal job. MPG is highly variable depending on weather and the driver's mood and route. I'd say Ford is treating you very well; get a few bugs ironed out, maintain your car and it will be very reliable. Honda Civic is a good car but boring. Check some Japanese car forums and you will find lots of problems too.
Our local Ford dealer is known for treating customers not very well, as well as overcharging for some things. Plus they have to small of a building the largest one is for the Toyota side. They have already programmed the computers in the last few months. The recall states that reprogramming might not solve the issue, I am sure it probably has to do with inferior rubber parts being used. It has happened before on other cars I have owned, and my gf's 03 Corolla they replaced her trim clips with the same old ones. They were supposed to replace them with NEW trim clips but some workers do not pay attention to details. After she had some repairs her drivers pillar plastic still falls open and you have to bang on it to get it to stay in place.
We bought a mazda 3 because it's just that good. The quality is just superb. By far the best looking and best quality. And I've had 2 mazdas before and they are bullet proof
Great comparison, Shame we can't compare it with more European brands. This is fantastic
I like both of these cars, but I'd have to go with the 3.
The bang for your dollar on the Mazda 3 is just ridiculous. Waiting for our current commuter to break one more time and we'll be getting a new 3.
LOL not at all. The car they tested here is almost 30,000 dollars. The focus they tested was probably about 25. You can get a Focus ST with racing seats and leave that mazda 3 in the dust for around 26. Brand new off the lot. The 3 is incredibly overpriced.
A Ford? LOL is correct. Too many quality issues. Also its a compact car for commuting. If I want a performance car I'll buy one of those and not settle for an ST pretending to be what its not.
Thanks for the suggestion though.
The ST has no quality issues. The only focus quality issue is thanks to the transmission which is not used in the ST. The ST only has a manual.And you obviously haven't done your research because the Focus ST and Fiesta ST have gotten so much praise since they were launched that it is insane. They both were featured in multiple tests by motortrend competing with supercars for best handling car. They both have been named the best bang for your buck. You can get a Fiesta ST starting at like 21k and Focus ST starts at 25k. Both come pretty well optioned. BUT if you want to pay 30k for a compact car with no thrills in comparison, poor dealer network in comparison, and is incredibly overpriced be my guest. But you, buddy, are a stupid man.
So I comment that I want a Mazda and I must be buying the $30,000 version.? I can't opt for the GX? Its you, the stupid boy, that makes that assumption. Yeah those cars you mentioned won the 2014 car of the year? LOL. Ford Focus and Fiesta? Names that historically are renowned for quality in the auto industry. AAHAHAHHAHAHA! One doesn't have to dig too deep to find that the Mazda 3 won that car of the year accolade. Nicely researched... Jackass! AND on top of it all you're the incompetent, impotent child talking about how the Focus ST is faster. You're concerned that you have a faster 2 liter compact car than the next person. You're a fucking joke.
Love those eye damaging headlights. Good job, boys!
Is Mazda a luxury brand or a german car? I rather have a ford but i am not so sure. Please if you know respond.
Even as a Ford guy I must admit that the new Mazda 3 is a great car,but there are gripes to Mazda 3 as well
1. The focus and Mazda both have almost same platform that's based on mk2 c platform of focus in Europe
2. Mazda 3 has 1 of worst cabin insulation in its class,face it even a Hyundai elantra is quieter than Mazda 3
3. The ride is too stiff for comfort,maybe America has good roads but here in Asia with all those pothole friendly roads Mazda is a pain in the ass specially 4 rear passengers
The oversized TomTom on the dash kills the interior. Besides that, it looks fantastic inside and out.
I love both cars! The 3 and Focus are super fun on a twisty road. But I have to stick with my trusty 2012 Jetta TDI. I mean it beats most cars off the line and I can still embarass a Prius with my fuel economy. My worst has been 38mpg when I did mainly city driving in the winter. But still. I cannot wait to see what these two offerings are like in 3 years when time comes to replace the Jetta.
Mazda has a diesel skyactiv motor waiting in the wings-- now THAT would be a hell of a deal!
Oh tell me about it! I cannot wait because the compact segment is getting so good now!
The prius gets 50 mpg, the jetta gets 30/42, so you're kinda full of it
Matt97 I'm full of it? I get 57-62mpg average on my 95% highway commute between two big cities. I have over 50k miles on my 2012 TDI and mpg is getting better and better while mpg on a lethargic prius will keep getting worse and worse due to the battery decreasing in life span. And clearly you know nothing about cars because estimates don't mean shit. If they did consumer reports wouldn't have gotten 36mpg combined in a Prius while the Jetta got 35. On the highway the Prius only managed 34mpg while the Jetta did 48mpg. Research your facts before you criticize, moron.
the TDI is slow as balls so your not touching anything off the line except a prius,lol. your 17.2 second 1/4 is not that impressive,lol. nice try go home, your drunk.
Is the Fords transmission really terrible. That's the only thing stopping me from getting the Focus.
The focus always had heavy steering compared to a 3. I can tell you that mazda light steering because quite annoying after a while because it makes the car feel lose. I'm pretty sure I would personally like the steering better on the focus. I drove a 2012 with the sport package (something that this car should have for a good comparison) and it felt awesome. I own a 2008 mazda3 hatch with the 2.3 right now and before that I had an svt focus and the svt focus was just a blast. The mazda is just light unsettled and annoying.
That's because in 2008 Mazda was being built by Ford, that curse is now gone. And the review clearly said it the Mazda 3 is sportier to drive and has better steering feel.
Yeah, well the SVT focus was a completely different animal to the standard car and while the three was a pleasant enough car to drive it was a step down from the protege it replaced largely due to it's more pedestrian underpinnings. The new three is a revelation and no matter your preference for steering weight the Mazda helm communicates what the front axle is doing far better than the focus.
Well not all reviews comfirm what you guys say. Look at the everydriver review. They agree that the focus handles better. The mazda3 I've got wasn't built by ford, it's made in Japan by mazda. Mazda are using Ford's control blade read suspension. Anyway I like Mazda and you both are right I can't judge without actually driving the new one but I drove the 2012 Focus with the sport package which has better suspension and it was awesome seriously.
the svt was indeed a different beast. Not really powerful but man it feels expensive in the way it drive. My mazda feels cheap. Not bad but cheap. Many european reviews agree that the first gen mazda3 was not that great and less entertaining than the mk2 euro focus. Anyway my 3 is reliable and mildly sporty so I can't complain much.
***** yes! anyways the New Mazda 3 has gotten way more reliable and holds its value better well actually Mazda as a brand has gotten so much better now. Top safety pick plus, car and drivers top 10 best cars, Kelley blue book awards 2 years in a row for lowest cost to own, and now they hold their value better, i say the Focus is good but the Mazda3 is a much better car overall.
why can't you get a 2.5L mazda 3 with a manual? it's the only thing stopping me from buying one
I like the Mazda 3 sedan better. The hatchback looks ugly on the back
I like the focus but the jerky dual clutch issues have me looks toward their competitive. I heard that the norm with these dual clutches.
You essentially have to reteach yourself how to use the throttle with a dual clutch. The transmission is always trying to guess what you're going to do next, so if it guessed wrong it has to reselect the next gear and thats the jerk you feel. Once you adapt your driving style however it has incredibly smooth shifts, no loss of power, and you can essentially coast to a complete stop significantly improving the life of your brakes.
Jeff Tolmich I hear this complaint a lot. The focus has to be driven as a sports car not a Grandma car.
+FairyPrincessEm It takes a confident foot on the throttle, if you let up on it a lot at low speeds, sure it can be jerky
Very nice review, Autoguide!
Own both and i think the focus handles better than the mazda. The mazda's steering feels super light :p
I don wanna be mean but that guy promoting the Ford has got a pretty annoying speaking method
He's an Arab lol
I completely understand you his lisp is annoying.
You are being mean . If the lisp annoys you quit watching the video. It is a speech impediment. He can't help it. It's like saying blue eyes are annoying
He needs to learn sign language.
mark williams True, but should he really be in TH-cam videos for a major car reviewing company? If you have a speech impediment like that, you really should not be in the spotlight without expecting criticism.
I boat the Mazda 3hb and I like it a lot. The design and the driving is ofcourse the best part, but the ride is a bit stiff and noisy. Overall its great! Def zoom zoom
Another thing is the COMFORT I agree that Mazda handles well but over broken roads Mazda struggles to comfort the passenger like how the focus does,focus has an ability to cut the sharper edge off any jolt getting into cabin,ride quality if focus is way better tha mazdas
What about the dual clutch transmission failures on Ford Focus.I can't stop seeing complains about transmission failures and dual clutch automatic issues with any focus year 2008 and up. Are the same issues present in Mazda?
Buy a manual you wimp. Problem solved.
Comparing the outgoing model focus (a new much-more- than- a- refresh model that debuts in July in U.K. ) , with the quite-new Mazda 3 , is a bit of a not-so-level playing field don't you think ????
I agree...Ford is more of the trend setter and the others play catch up. Now the Focus has a new design coming out soon and I'm sure the driving dynamics are going to be even better that what already is a great handling car.
SashMar Robinson The current model focus handles well ; lovely weight to the steering . The incoming models dashboard looks a bit classy , less of a button-fest than the current model.
The Fords in Germany came out 3 years before the USA and they looked SO MUCH different inside than the crap they sell us Americans. At least with the Focus we got the world version of the car and not the dumbed down American job they used to do at Ford.
Its so crazy when you buy cars now & just last year 2013, the Ford Focus was #1 in interior & exterior looks according to most magazines & car web sites. Now its dated? I drove the mazda 3 to see what the hipe was about & there is not as much to talk about. I own a 2013 Ford Focus SE Hatch & its just as fun in driving & offers more, compared to the entry version Mazda 3. To each there own I guess.
so my titanium has the sync button on the wheel not underneath... is this a 2013? Honestly I don't like how the new Mazda's look... Not sure where they are coming from saying the Focus looks dated...
the problem is your using a faster engine vs a base model engine. try the 2.0 skyactive vs the focus 2.0 the focus is faster.
This automatic love is beyond me. Maybe it's a generation thing, or a geographical one, or both. I wanna decide when to shift gear.
me too. Manual for me #savethemanuals
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
Really a two liter against a two point five. I had a two point three 2004 Ford Focus and that thing tore up the road! Come on Ford, When we want sporty we also mean fun to drive as well as responsive handling, and of course get up and go! I don't know why American car makers don't know this yet! -since the late 80's! I'm still waiting for manufactures to get with it!
Given manual is an option (is for me) and for that much money, I'd take a Ford Focus ST over both of these specific models. Jumping over to Ford's site has it starting at $23,625. Comes fairly loaded at the base price..
The one stand out feature that the FORD has over the Mazda is the interior NOISE LEVEL. Every Reviewer has said it's a busy noisy over comparable models which is a shame. Cause the Mazda 3 climbs over $30K and should show signs of quality all over.
the ford focus gives to me around 25 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles in freeway approx very quiet driving
You should do a video with the 2014 Dodge Dart and the 2014 chevy cruze
Ok im pretty sure the ford is also a 6 spd auto not dual clutch. It has auto shift and optional paddles but that doesnt make it a dct.
it is a dual clutch transmission bud do your research
Doesnt seem like a very fair comparison, comparing two completely different motors... I would like to see them compare the 2.0l motors, of course a 2.5 has more power than a 2.0.... if you want to compare the BEST motors, compare the ford focus ST to the 2.5 mazda... both cars look great, but to me it seems as though both these guys had a preference for mazda to begin with.
Okay, compare to the 2.0 Mazda then. It makes 155 hp. Very similar to the 159 in the Focus. And no, comparing the Mazda 2.5 to the Focus ST is not fair. It’s a turbocharged engine in the ST.
OMG whats up with todays head rests... they are so inclined to the front.
Not the Mazda's. The Fords' are terrible though.
Those are Anti Whiplash headrests. You know, SAFETY, ever heard of it???
@@cuddles6938 calm down
@@SIIKAP1 Comment from 6 years ago, you are a pretty slow troll.
but i like mazda design since before.
I really don't know what these bozos are babbling about. They've taken a very non-objective approach. They're shamelessly clamoring over the Mazda 3 throughout the video while constantly bashing the Ford Focus, basically saying whatever they can to sell the Mazda whether it makes sense or not.
They keep saying how the Focus just "can't keep up" with its 2.0L 160 HP engine, as compared to the Mazda's 2.5L 184 HP engine. What these guys neglect to mention is that the 2.0L 160 HP engine on the focus is the BASE engine, available from $19k and up. The "comparative" engine on the Mazda 3 is only available for a mere... $25k! The base Mazda engine, the one that is available at $19k, is also a 2.0L and puts out only 155 HP. That is the base Focus's competition. If you want to dish out the kinda cash the higher end Mazda engine demands, you might as well get the Focus ST (which is an astonishing, full-fledged sport car with 2.0L 252 HP TURBO-CHARGED engine, and legendary handling). And you can get that for 3 thousand dollars cheaper. It's beyond me who would blow so much money on a 184 HP engine. The base v6 mustang is available at $22k with a blistering 302 HP, and the v6 Chevy Camaro available at $23k.
Any car buff worth his salt would know all of this already; these fellas aren't fooling anyone.
why ppl is unHappy with the ford focus.i thank it looks cool
Dam you can eat bacon and eggs off of that Focus engine!
They are cool, but speed3 and ST.
I just love this both cars
It's a shame Mazda didn't went overboard with the interior. Specially the horrible looking steering wheel. The outside looks like an Infiniti. Other thing is that it ends up being more expensive than the Corolla because you have to pay extra for things that come standard in almost any other car in the segment.
On the other hand, the Focus is a Ford, which means it will suck and become useless in less than 2 years.
The transmission issues are the only SUCK thing. I traded in my 02 Civic and wish I kept it, my gf kept badgering me to get a new car even though I liked my Civic, she's a Toyota nut and now she has Airbag issues to deal with.
If you think of it it’s the same car but with different headlights and taillights
The 2nd row in the 3 is tight. The slope of the hatch glass eats into the cargo area big time. The HUD is a joke and is generally blocked by the top of the steering wheel.
Also, the HUD is right where the windshield wipers would be so the background behind the HUD is very busy indeed. The HUD is practically useless in this car.
the mazda's interior looks kinda Audi-ish wich is good
the ford's interior just looks like cheapness
Mazda 3 for sure !
The Mazda style (Kodo)...is more sexy than the Ford...for old drivers.
The term "pounds-feet" left me with a sour taste in my mouth. Never heard it called "pounds-feet" before...
I own the 2014 Ford Focus and in summer months I average 41 MPG
I wish Ford still sells the Focus hatchback with manual transmission option in the United States. I want to buy one for my next car. Can you help to petition Ford to bring it back by calling or writing Ford Customer Service? Thank you for your support in this effort!
Nice Mazda sell, the focus comes in an ST that puts out 250 hp, and a 2.0L naturally aspirated that puts out 160 hp. If you were going to put a newly designed 2014 Mazda 3, against Ford’s old 2011 technology you could’ve at least compared apples to apples. The old 2 L from 2011 in the Ford focus still produces five more horsepower than Mazdas new 2014 2 L.
The guy with the beard is hot. Woof!
Woof, indeed! Wowzah!
Not sure if this would change the results (probably not) but I previously owned a Focus Titanium Hatch and it came with the Titanium Handling Package which stiffens up the ride and I would be willing to bet it would pull to dead even in terms of handling when compared to the Mazda 3. Maybe the team could do a follow up review with the handling package? ;-)
Finally Mazda made a small car that doesn't look like a deranged mental patient with a clownish smile. If they can do the same with the Miata, maybe I'd buy one.
Mazda 3 the best!
guys which of these more fuel efficient?
Mazda no doubt cause of the SkyActiv Tech Engines & WAY more reliable:)
Way less cheap plastic interiors than the Ford. The interior&exterior kicks the Fords ass any day of the week..lol.
Way more better gas mileage & more fun to drive:)
Justin Yau Where is this coming from?! The focus's interior looks fantastic! The only thing that bugs me at all is how easily the door panels get marks from my shoes.
G0REgoreGADGET The Focus interior is so ugly, cluttered & so outdated. I dont know about the new models but previous model use to use the stupid My Ford Touch Tech systems. So outdated&slow. The new 2015 focus interior still looks the same as the 2011 focus model..lol. So old..lol. Also the interiors are full of Hard Plastic materials that make it look so cheap. And they even market that the interiors are made up of Recycleable plastic bottles..LMAO 😂
All the new Focus, Fusions & Escape have had Reliability issues & thats why they haven't been selling for this reason alone. And I actual think all 3 models exterior looks amazing. And the interiors look good except for the Focus. Well the Focus interiors dont look as good as the competition now thats for sure.
And the Focus built quality is shit. I have even seen some 2012 Focus models on TH-cam show how the steering wheel has shifted with pushing the horn & has shown the Tech system with the My Ford Touch screen just freeze in cold weather&he could only control his radio stations & couldnt even control the volume to turn it down..lol.
Consumer Report listed its most reliable cars last yr. And Mazda was number 5. Ford wasnt even on the passing end & didnt even crack the top 20..lol.
This yr Consumer Report jumped Mazda 2 spots & its now 3rd place. Just behind Lexus&Toyota. Which basically is the same company. So Mazda really is Number 2 in reliability.
Japanese companies are known for being the most reliable & American brands are not. And if your even goin tell me that Ford is more reliable then U are so Bias buddy & U already proved that in your last comment cause U own a Focus..lol.
Ford is especially known for having unreliable cars & they have a nickname for it
FORD - Found On Road Dead
Now Oldsmobile is a very reliable American brand but they no longer make them anymore.
Yeah.. I am biased. Ummm SO ARE YOU. I have no issue with the interior on my car. I'm not expecting a luxury sedan. It looks clean and it looks good. As far as reliability goes I will let you know in 150k miles. Have a feeling it won't be as bad as you think. I own a Chevy Trailblazer with 170k miles and the thing runs like the day I bought it. I like vehicles from the Asian and European market too don't get it twisted. I like the way the focus looks. I honestly think it looks better than the Mazda. By the way reliability should be judged based on model only... There are plenty of fantastic American vehicles out there. The gap with foreign manufacturers is getting a lot smaller.
G0REgoreGADGET Theres a reason why Toyota & Honda sell so many vehicles. They are built with good quality materials & build design is smarter so it wont fall apart. They do not use as much cheaper materials compared to some American brands like Ford.
I wasnt surprised that CR in back to back yrs had Lexus&Toyota win for the top spots again. I owned a brand new 93 Toyota Camry. It lasted 2 freakin Decades. And it would have lasted even longer if I replaced the Timing belt. The car had zero rust & was tough as nails with barely any dents or damage.
And in my time owning the car I had 2 complete strangers compliment me with my car on being good cause it was so reliable. I mean thats 2 freakin times that complete strangers say it cause they know its true..lol.
And as far as Mazda 3 having the best interior in its class. The Mazda 3 could be put up against even the luxury brands like BMW & Audi..lol. Have U ever seen the interior of those Luxury cars???
Mazda 3 has the exact same look with their Touch screen on the Dashboard & the Control knob near the Gearshifts. Just like the Luxury brands like BMW & Audi..lol. So I don't know how U can be honest with urself & say the Focus interior is better without being Bias..lol? For god sake the Focus even markets its interior saying its made from cheap Plastic Recycleable bottles..lol.
Even the Speedometer of the Mazda 3 is the only car in its class or non Luxury brands. That has the same look as the Super car McLaren Speedometer.
I can agree A FEW American Brands are getting better in reliability. But compared to Jap brands. Not even close.
Especially with the newer designs of the 2012 & newer models with the Focus, Fusions & Escapes.
Even after just under 10,000 km. I heard the Escapes & Fusions couldnt hold up & fell apart. They were just built badly. The Tech was slow & many problems.
Ford would have sold many of these Good looking cars. But looks werent enough & got scared off cause of the many problems they were having.
Even owning the 2014 model of the Ford Docus Trend, I really do not like having to speak like a computer.
Mazda 3 all day baby
I'm disappointed that the mileage with these cars is so bad. My old Mazda 323 hatch [back when I had it] did the same thing. Not much changed except cars got fat and heavy.
Shallibodhran first of all, the 323 hatch, base model, has less than 100hp, second, its a 1.6L engine. Third, it doesnt do better, it actually matches them with the average fuel econ at around 31. Nvm the fact that both these cars are much more powerful.
I'm surprised the ford could understand daffy duck.
Why is autoguide saying focus is showing it's age,it's not,it still looks modern and funky and European and most importantly it feels solid,unlike tin can feeling Japanese cars of course Mazda is exception
The Focus is getting a facelift this year anyway, I tigon this is a very biased review.
*think
BoschExxcel I too think the same way pal, sure the new Mazda 3 is a great car, but I dont think its an outright winner over the Focus,I stay in Asia and we have pretty bad roads , even highways are fully broken and there is virtual moon craters on our roads, in these kinds of roads the Mazda was real disappointment
1. Mazdas ride was 2 stiff and it felt like it might break spine if we push it 2 much
2. The car had almost no cabin insulation, so the passengers in back seat complained heavily that they couldnt take a nap if they ever wanted 2
The Focus ride quality was much better and its cabin was super quiet compared to Mazda, only the VW golf has a better quietness than a Focus but its 2 damn expensive
The roads are really bad here in the UK. The Focus is a really comfortable car, no wonder the best selling cads here are the Ford Fiesta and Focus!
The Gold is expensive, rubbish and hideous. I still think the Focus and new Peugeot 308 are the best hatchbacks on the market today.
BoschExxcel Aah i cant guarantee tht, I ve driven the new MK7 2.0 TDi,1.4 TSi,Gti,R as well and even as a Ford fanboy I willadmit that the new Golf is like in aleague of its own, its 2 good for Focus 2 fight against, only 2 areas Focus has the cards,
Focus looks smarter and dosent look BOXY like Golf
Focus handles better
Other than that the new MK7 Golf is a revelation, I think its even better than the Audi A3, I really hope the facelifted Focus will bring Focus back n track, but I think it still cant beat the golf, Golf is super good now, Golfs seat comfort and ride quality made me think its like benchmark 4 hatch backs
Why are you comparing a 2.5L Mazda with a 2L Ford and not the 2.0L version of the Mazda with a 2L Ford?
I disagree on the foucs steering feel. It feels good to me i like the weight of it.
Mazdas are so boring now I loved the 2010-2013 Mazda 3s those were nice idk what happened to these.
A british investigation company made a test on 200.000 cars to define least problematic cars. 1-Mazda %17 2-Mercedes %25 3-Toyota %26 4-Honda %27 5-Mitsubishi %29 6-Volvo %30... List continues... This list shows mazda is a way much resisting than Ford. I have got a 84 model Suzuki alto. It s on 876.000 km. Still going. Not needed to renew the engine until now.
I can't take Sami's voice
the ford logo just putt me off . i really like the mazda
Mazda 3 Beautiful car
Ford Focus for me! I felt the Ford Focus felt better to drive than the Mazda 3. Also the pricing of the Mazda was higher. Big one for me.. MADE IN THE USA! Focus is a great American compact car. As far as styling, styling is always subjective to your personal taste. I felt the Focus had a more aggressive sporty look than the Mazda 3. Besides the new 2015 Focus now now re-styled..
The mazda is way head of safety then the focus
Ford is shit...the infotainment system glitches out all the the time, and is no where near reliable. I will never trust an American car, probably only with they Chevy/GMC i have exceptions....
ghd bfb None are good...you ignorant crap...quit defending your shitty American "cars"
Siba Yako ford is still better then Hyundai kia and yota
ghd bfb Ford cars may look better (although the look of the 2015 Sonata/Kia Optima is a lot better than Fusion...Toyota is boring but a lot better in terms of reliability...same with Hyyundai/Kia...they are becoming more and more reliable...Ford? Not so much.
I drove a Focus rental, I would be ashamed to buy one.
The transmission on the ford is terrible my dad got that car and got rid of it in a year
2.5L 4 Cylinder with only 184 Horsepower?! That's ridiculously under-powered!
Considering in 1999 Ford offered a 3.0L V-6 in the taurus with the same amount of horsepower I'd say that this 4 cylinder, which is down a half liter and 2 pistons is doing ok especially when you realize that its tuned for fuel efficiency and not power
Thank goodness time have progressed huh? But considering that Ford offer a 1.6 Litre EcoBoost unit wich can produce up to 180 Horsepower and still achieve something like 61mpg, the 2.5 SkyActiv is still painfully underpowered.
David A
check out that engine's torque curve. It's almost flat, meaning you have high torque available at any rpm. The skyactiv engines are very smooth and provide a great punch at any rpm.
Peak power figures only tell half the story. Numbers are for guys with big dicks and half erections.
David A
A forced induction 1.6 vs a naturally aspirated 2.5.... are you high??
Idiot. It's inline with midsize engine offerings while being as light as a compact all the while returning 29/38 MPG. How is that not impressive? This is a fun COMMUTER car, not a sports car or dragster, and stop comparing NA engines with turbo charged engines, it makes no sense.
Both of these cars look like house flies
Also if I am to be honest a better car than Mazda 3 and Ford focus is the VW jetta,because it has biggest cabin,easy to use controls,most comfortable and spacious back seat,biggest boot,1.8 tsi eats sky active for break fast,and again safe handling and best balance between stiffness and supplleness in suspension,not to mention the biggest boot as well
yeah but its boring...same with corolla.
wonderwall135 true,that's the biggest reason why it isn't a sales success,but if sonei thinks logically jetta is unbeatable, just sacrifice little bit of drama to get a whole lot of room,power, comfort, etc
Not sure how bigger, heavier, less horsepower, torque and MPG is better, or am I missing something?
Brent C jetta is the car with biggest booot in class
The jetta has best engine the 1.8 TSI is super eager and has no turbo lag and is fastest car to 120 mph among its competition
Jetta has best gear ratios and best gear shift quality
Jetta has the best ride quality among any compact sedans,its not as stiff as Mazda or Focus yet not wallowy and boat like as in a Corolla,Cruze,Elantra etc
Jetta has interior space to rival a Maza 6,Ford Fusion,etc
Jetta has average mpg as 32 mpg combined sure its 1 mpg less than Mazda 3 and same as Focus but who cares with all that turbo power you can beat the hell out of Mazdas 2.5 and Ford 2.0 i4
Jettas infotainment system can be controlled by even a 6 year old child so easy and 0 complication at all
Exterior built quality of Jetta is superb,its a safe car to drive
There are a few problems with the current Jetta. The interior quality is worse than the last generation, with cheaper plastics that are hard to the touch. Also, VWs have a lot of catching up to do in the reliability department.
Indie 88.1 FM plug!!!
Comparison, what comparison? The deck was already stacked against the Ford Focus before the video began. This review was pure biased in favor of the 3.