A Look Back...
The Focus has enjoyed a ride of its life during its first iteration. From praises and awards from journalistic bodies to criticism about shoddy workmanship and recalls, the Focus is certainly a vehicle that made its mark in automotive history.
Charting The Changes: MK-I Generation (2000 to 2004)
Here are just a few changes that have evolved through the life of the Focus production cycle:
2000 |
- Ford Focus is introduced to the Canadian public in sedan, wagon, and 3-door hatchback form
- Sedan: LX, SE, and ZTS
- Wagon: SE
- Hatchback: ZX3
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2001 |
- Running changes to rear tail lights in mid/late 2001 models (turn signal would be incorporated into the larger tail/brake light versus operating as a single unit above the brake light)
- ZTS is offered with 6-spoke, 16-inch alloy wheels
- Introduction of Street Edition and S2 packages
- Manual sunroof offered on ZX3
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2002 |
- Introduction of the SE Sport, ZX5 5-door hatchback, ZTW wagon, and 3-door SVT models
- Introduction of the SE Limited Edition package
- Various interior trim changes (e.g. larger Ford emblem on steering wheel, vinyl sun visors, non-lighted cigarette outlet, brushed aluminum panel on ZTS and ZTW dash, floor console design)
- Various minor engineering changes
- 15-inch multi-spoke aluminum wheels on SE Sport models
- Personal Safety System added to all Focii
- Rear child-safety trunk release
- Power moonroof now offered on SE, ZX3, ZX5, ZTW and ZTS
- Discontinuation of the following exterior colours: Rainforest Green, Jackpot Gold, Light Sapphire Blue
- New exterior colours offered: Gabber Green, Liquid Grey, French Blue
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2003 |
- 5-door SVT model is added
- Minor powertrain modifications for increased durability and reliability
- Canadian winter package offered on ZX5, ZTW and ZTS (traction control, heated front seats and power heated rear-view mirrors)
- Available audio system options such as a CD/MP3 head unit, and Audiophile system
- Interior trim fabric changes
- Map pocket behind the driver's seat disappears
- 5-spoke, 16-inch alloy wheels replace the 6-spoke design
- Chrome strip on ZX5 hatch, ZTW tailgate and ZTS decklid replaced with body-coloured strip
- ZX3 loses lower black sideskirt found on earlier models
- European Appearance package offered on US-spec SVT 3-doors
- Centennial Package offered on ZTS models to celebrate Ford's 100th anniversary
- Discontinuation of the following exterior colours: Malibu Blue, Fort Knox Gold
- New exterior colours offered: Arizona Beige, Light Tundra on sedans and wagons
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2004 |
- Discontinuation of Advance-Trac (stability control) option on Canadian models
- New steering knuckles and struts for improved ride and handling
- 15-inch steel wheels and P195/60R15 tires now available on SE models with the SPI engine
- 16-inch aluminum wheels and P205/50R16 tires now optional on ZX3 models (these are standard issue on models sold in the US)
- Discontinuation of CD/MP3 audio head unit
- Light Tundra now available on ZX3 and ZX5
- Leather seating surfaces now available on the ZX3
- Discontinuation of exterior colour Gabber Green
- SVT models get the following:
- European Appearance Package now available on five-door model (there is the chance this package will not be available in Canada)
- New 17-inch six-spoke euro-flange wheel design
- Sonic Blue paint colour and blue seat inserts available
- And for those wondering, the high-intensity headlights will NOT be available to Canadian customers
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