I’m looking at these two cars, and they’re about the same price. I’m not sure which one to go for. What do you all think?
I went to a Ford ST driving event a while back. Spent time in both cars. The Fiesta is more fun on a tight course, but the Focus is better for daily driving and feels more comfortable overall.
Pierce said:
I went to a Ford ST driving event a while back. Spent time in both cars. The Fiesta is more fun on a tight course, but the Focus is better for daily driving and feels more comfortable overall.
I agree 100%. I’ve owned the Fiesta and driven the Focus. It really comes down to what fits your lifestyle and size. Both are great options.
Here’s how I see it:
- Fiesta ST: lighter and more fun to drive
- Focus ST: more practical and still fun.
Rory said:
Here’s how I see it:
- Fiesta ST: lighter and more fun to drive
- Focus ST: more practical and still fun.
That sums it up perfectly. I went with the Focus because I like having fun and also being able to fit my bike in the trunk.
@Laken
Can I borrow your trunk for my bike too? Haha.
The Fiesta ST is fun and great on the track, but at the end of the day, it’s still a Fiesta. In a few years, it’ll just be an old economy car. The Focus, on the other hand, is built on a stronger platform and feels more solid overall.
@Dallas
I have a 2014 Fiesta ST, and you’re right. It’s a blast to drive, but it’s still a cheap car at heart. If I were you, I’d consider something like a GTI or GLI instead.
Ash said:
@Dallas
I have a 2014 Fiesta ST, and you’re right. It’s a blast to drive, but it’s still a cheap car at heart. If I were you, I’d consider something like a GTI or GLI instead.
I’d say the Focus ST feels more like a GTI in terms of quality. It’s definitely a step up from the Fiesta.
@Palmer
Now I’m really regretting not going for the Focus back then. Thanks for rubbing it in, haha.
If you’re not worried about fuel economy, I’d recommend the Focus. It’s roomier and only loses a tiny bit in MPG. With spirited driving, you’re looking at around 25-26 MPG in the Fiesta and 24-25 MPG in the Focus.
@Thayer
MPG is a factor for me because I’m planning a road trip soon. Thanks for pointing out the real-world numbers for fun driving vs highway-only driving!
Corey said:
@Thayer
MPG is a factor for me because I’m planning a road trip soon. Thanks for pointing out the real-world numbers for fun driving vs highway-only driving!
Both cars can get over 30 MPG on the highway, but it’s tough to keep them out of boost in the city. Also, if you’re considering the Recaro seats, sit in them first—they’re very snug.
@Palmer
My Focus ST gets about 28-30 MPG on highway trips. Around town, it’s more like 23-25 MPG. The Recaros are polarizing, but I find them super comfy for long drives.
Quill said:
@Palmer
My Focus ST gets about 28-30 MPG on highway trips. Around town, it’s more like 23-25 MPG. The Recaros are polarizing, but I find them super comfy for long drives.
Agreed. With my bigger turbo upgrade, my city MPG is closer to 26 now. These cars are a great mix of fun and practicality.
If you ever plan to use the back seats, go with the Focus.
Tamsin said:
If you ever plan to use the back seats, go with the Focus.
Good point. I’m the shortest in my family at 6’1, so space is definitely something I need to consider.
Focus ST all the way. I’m 6’3, and I’ve taken it on road trips with 4 people and a full trunk. It’s roomier, has more power, and is just as good on gas as the Fiesta. It’s a better all-around daily driver.
@Deen
Thanks for sharing your experience! I’ll definitely weigh that in when making my decision.
Corey said:
@Deen
Thanks for sharing your experience! I’ll definitely weigh that in when making my decision.
You can even put a hitch on the Focus for light towing. I’ve hauled stuff and done autocross with mine—it’s super versatile.