The 2016 Ford Focus is a compact car, part of the Focus's third generation. It's available as a sedan or hatchback. Key trims include the S, SE, Titanium, and the performance-oriented ST and RS. Known for its agile handling and available technology, the Focus offers a fun-to-drive experience in an economical package. The 2016 model year typically ranges in price from around $17,000 to over $36,000 new, depending on the trim and options, while used prices are significantly lower. Its popularity stems from its combination of practicality, style, and driving dynamics.
The Good
The 2016 Ford Focus boasts agile performance and responsive handling, appealing to those seeking a fun driving experience. Its modern design offers aesthetic appeal. Practically, it delivers good fuel efficiency and a comfortable interior, making it a sensible choice for daily commutes. It also provides good value for the price, especially on the used market.
The Bad
The 2016 Ford Focus can have issues with its automatic transmission, particularly the dual-clutch PowerShift transmission, leading to hesitation and rough shifting. Some owners have reported electrical problems and issues with the infotainment system. Regular maintenance and careful inspection of the transmission are recommended when considering this vehicle.
2016 Ford Focus: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.0L EcoBoost I3 (SE): Around 123 hp
- 2.0L Ti-VCT I4 (S, SE, Titanium): Around 160 hp
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (ST): Around 252 hp
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (RS): Around 350 hp
- Horsepower: Ranges from 123 hp to 350 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 1.0L EcoBoost: Up to 30 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
- 2.0L I4: Up to 26 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 2.0L EcoBoost (ST): Around 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 2.3L EcoBoost (RS): Around 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.0L I4: Around 8.3 seconds
- 2.0L EcoBoost (ST): Around 6.2 seconds
- 2.3L EcoBoost (RS): Around 4.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, a 4.2-inch display screen, and a rearview camera.
- SE: Adds features like cruise control, alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system, and available MyFord Touch infotainment.
- Titanium: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Sony audio system, and MyFord Touch with an 8-inch touchscreen.
- ST: Performance-oriented with a more powerful engine, sport suspension, unique styling, and sport seats.
- RS: High-performance variant with all-wheel drive, even more aggressive styling, and advanced performance features.
2016 Ford Focus Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WAYNE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 160 High Power 2-L i4 Flexible Fuel vehicle |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
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History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
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Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Ford Focus Have?
The 2016 Ford Focus is plagued by issues, particularly with the dual-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission. This transmission is known for shuddering, hesitation, and rough shifting, leading to costly repairs. Many owners have reported premature clutch failure and transmission replacement. Ford has faced class-action lawsuits over this issue.
Recalls have been issued for various problems, including fuel tank issues and powertrain control module malfunctions. Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning dashboard displays and infotainment glitches, are also relatively common. Long-term reliability is a concern due to these recurring issues, especially the transmission. Some model years, including 2012-2016, are more susceptible to transmission problems. Other potential problems include issues with the climate control system and occasional engine problems. Thoroughly inspect the transmission and review vehicle history reports before purchasing a used 2016 Ford Focus.
Recalls have been issued for various problems, including fuel tank issues and powertrain control module malfunctions. Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning dashboard displays and infotainment glitches, are also relatively common. Long-term reliability is a concern due to these recurring issues, especially the transmission. Some model years, including 2012-2016, are more susceptible to transmission problems. Other potential problems include issues with the climate control system and occasional engine problems. Thoroughly inspect the transmission and review vehicle history reports before purchasing a used 2016 Ford Focus.
How long will the 2016 Ford Focus last?
With good maintenance habits, a 2016 Ford Focus can reasonably provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles of service, translating to 10-13 years of use. However, the longevity hinges on addressing the known weaknesses, primarily the PowerShift transmission. Neglecting transmission issues or skipping maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan. Other potential long-term concerns include rust in areas with harsh winters and wear and tear on suspension components. Regular servicing and proactive repairs are crucial for maximizing the car's durability.
Positive Owner Reviews
Sarah M.
This Focus has been a great daily driver. Good gas mileage and easy to park in the city. The interior is basic but functional.
Emily K.
I bought this car used and I'm very happy with it. It's affordable, gets good gas mileage, and is comfortable enough for longer drives.
David L.
The Focus is a bit small for my family, but it's perfect for commuting. I appreciate the responsive handling and the tech features for the year.
Negative Owner Reviews
John B.
Overall, it's an okay car. I've had some transmission issues that needed repair, which was frustrating. Otherwise, it's fuel-efficient and handles well.
Jessica P.
I've had a few minor issues with my Focus, nothing major but still inconvenient. The interior materials also feel a bit cheap.
Kevin R.
It's a car that gets you from point A to point B. Nothing really stands out, but it does its job.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Ford Focus offers a reasonable array of tech and safety features for its class. Base models include a rearview camera and a 4.2-inch display screen. Higher trims offer Ford's MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration via Ford Sync.
Available driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features on upper trims include automatic parking assist.
Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. The 2016 Ford Focus received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), though specific ratings may vary by body style and equipment. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award.
Entertainment options include a Sony premium audio system on higher trims, providing enhanced sound quality. Overall, the Focus offers a competitive range of technology and safety, though some features are limited to higher, more expensive trim levels.
Available driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features on upper trims include automatic parking assist.
Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. The 2016 Ford Focus received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), though specific ratings may vary by body style and equipment. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award.
Entertainment options include a Sony premium audio system on higher trims, providing enhanced sound quality. Overall, the Focus offers a competitive range of technology and safety, though some features are limited to higher, more expensive trim levels.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Shadow Black
Oxford White
Magnetic Metallic
Race Red
Deep Impact Blue Metallic
Ingot Silver Metallic
White Gold Metallic
Blue Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Kona Blue Metallic
Tuxedo Black Metallic
Sunset Metallic
Bering Sea Pearl Metallic
Interior Colors
Charcoal Black
Medium Light Stone
Black
Medium Stone
Sport Black
RS Black
Equipment Group 500A
Smoke Free Car
2016 Ford Focus Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 Ford Focus ranged from approximately $17,000 for the base S trim to over $36,000 for the high-performance RS model. Current used market prices vary greatly depending on condition, mileage, and trim, typically ranging from $8,000 to $18,000. The Focus has experienced significant depreciation due to its age and known reliability issues, particularly with the transmission. Factors affecting resale value include the car's mechanical condition (especially the transmission), accident history, and mileage. Models with manual transmissions tend to hold their value slightly better due to the avoidance of the problematic PowerShift automatic.
2016 Ford Focus Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Ford Focus generally has affordable insurance and decent fuel economy, making it relatively economical in those areas. However, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average, particularly if the PowerShift transmission requires servicing or replacement. Long-term ownership costs can be unpredictable due to potential reliability issues. While fuel and insurance are reasonable, the possibility of expensive repairs makes it less economical overall compared to some competitors.
2016 Ford Focus Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
26 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
40 miles/gallon
2016 Ford Focus Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 Ford Focus Recalls & Defects
Structure:body
Recall date
2017-01-24
Recall no.
17v052000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2016 Focus and C-Max Vehicles. THE Floor PAN MAY Have Improperly Welded Left-Hand Apron Joints.
Consequence
Improperly Welded Apron Joints MAY Reduce THE Front-End Structural Integrity OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Apron Joints, Repairing THE Vehicle, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 8, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 17s03.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date
2016-09-28
Recall no.
16v698000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2017 Ford Focus Hatchback Vehicles Manufactured February 14, 2012, TO August 26, 2016 and Equipped With A Manual Transmission. THE Hatchback OF THE Affected Vehicles MAY BE Unlatched With A Single Press OF THE Interior Latch Release Button. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 206, "door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence
With Only A Single Press Needed, THE Driver MAY Accidently Unlatch THE Hatchback, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO ANY Unsecured Passengers IN THE Back.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Body Control Module With Updated Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 10, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 16c13.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock
Recall date
2016-09-28
Recall no.
16v698000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2017 Ford Focus Hatchback Vehicles Manufactured February 14, 2012, TO August 26, 2016 and Equipped With A Manual Transmission. THE Hatchback OF THE Affected Vehicles MAY BE Unlatched With A Single Press OF THE Interior Latch Release Button. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 206, "door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence
With Only A Single Press Needed, THE Driver MAY Accidently Unlatch THE Hatchback, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO ANY Unsecured Passengers IN THE Back.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Body Control Module With Updated Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 10, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 16c13.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
Recall date
2018-10-22
Recall no.
18v735000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2018 Ford Focus Vehicles With A 2.0l GDI or 2.0l Gtdi Engine. THE Canister Purge Valve (Cpv) MAY Malfunction, Possibly Causing Excessive Vacuum IN Fuel Vapor Management System.
Consequence
THE Excessive Vaccuum MAY Result IN AN Engine Stall While Driving, Without Warning and Without THE Ability TO Restart THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Powertrain Control Module. Dealers Will Also Check FOR Fault Codes and Replace THE CPV AS Needed. IF THE CPV IS Replaced, Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Carbon Canister, Fuel Tank and Fuel Delivery Module AS Necessary. THE Recall Began August 19, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 18s32. Note: Until THE Vehicle IS Serviced FOR This Concern, Owners ARE Advised TO Keep THE Fuel Tank AT Least Halfway Full.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:manual Transmission
Recall date
2018-11-28
Recall no.
18v845000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus Vehicles Equipped With A 1.0l FOX Gtdi Engine and A 6-Speed Manual Transmission. THE Clutch MAY Fracture, Resulting IN Damage TO THE Transmission Assembly and Possibly A Transmission Fluid Leak.
Consequence
A Transmission Fluid Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Such AS HOT Engine or Exhaust Components CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update Vehicles With Software That Detects and Prevents Prolonged Clutch Slip, and Will Replace THE Clutch, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 17, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 18s07. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 18v-169.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:manual Transmission
Recall date
2018-03-12
Recall no.
18v169000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2014 Ford Fusion Vehicles Equipped With A 1.6l Gtdi Engine and 6-Speed Manual Transmission and 2015-2016 Ford Focus Vehicles Equipped With A 1.0l Gtdi Engine and 6-speed Manual Transmission. Also Included ARE Four 2017 Ford Focus Vehicles That HAD Clutch Replacements With Potentially Affected Parts. THE Clutch MAY Fracture, Resulting IN Damage TO THE Transmission Assembly and Possibly A Transmission Fluid Leak.
Consequence
A Transmission Fluid Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Such AS HOT Engine or Exhaust Components CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Focus Vehicles With Software That Detects and Prevents Prolonged Clutch Slip, and Will Replace THE Clutch, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owners OF Fusion Vehicles Will Have Their Clutch Assembly Replaced Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 3, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 18s07.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:oil/Lubrication:pump
Recall date
2023-12-22
Recall no.
23v905000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford Ecosport Vehicles. THE OIL Pump Drive Belt or Drive Belt Tensioner MAY Fail, Resulting IN A Loss OF Engine OIL Pressure.
Consequence
A Loss OF OIL Pressure CAN Result IN AN Engine Stall and A Loss OF Power Braking Assist, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE OIL Pump Tensioner Assembly and OIL Pump Drive Belt, Free OF Charge. IF Engine Failure Occurs DUE TO A Damaged OIL Pump Belt And/Or OIL Pump Belt Tensioner, Ford HAS Authorized Dealers TO Replace THE Engine Assembly AS AN Interim Repair Before THE Availability OF Remedy Parts FOR THE Final Repair. This Repair Will BE Free OF Charge (Parts and Labor). Interim Owner Notification Letters Explaining THE Safety Risk Were Mailed June 20, 2024. A Second Notice Will BE Sent Once Remedy Parts Become Available, Anticipated IN 4TH Quarter 2025. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 23s64.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2016 Ford Focus Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Ford Focus is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Ford Focus Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2016 Ford Focus competes with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra. In terms of performance, the Focus ST and RS models offer superior handling and power compared to many rivals. However, the base Focus's reliability is a concern, especially compared to the Corolla and Civic, which are known for their dependability. The Mazda3 offers a similar sporty driving experience with better overall reliability.
In terms of features, the Focus is competitive, offering comparable technology and safety options. Price-wise, the Focus is generally similar to its rivals, but used prices reflect its reliability concerns.
Alternatives to the 2016 Ford Focus include the Mazda3 (better reliability and similar driving dynamics), the Honda Civic (excellent reliability and fuel economy), and the Toyota Corolla (renowned for its long-term dependability). If reliability is a major concern, the Civic or Corolla would be better choices. If you're prioritizing driving experience and can find a well-maintained example, the Mazda3 is a strong contender. The Hyundai Elantra is another alternative, offering good value and a long warranty.
In terms of features, the Focus is competitive, offering comparable technology and safety options. Price-wise, the Focus is generally similar to its rivals, but used prices reflect its reliability concerns.
Alternatives to the 2016 Ford Focus include the Mazda3 (better reliability and similar driving dynamics), the Honda Civic (excellent reliability and fuel economy), and the Toyota Corolla (renowned for its long-term dependability). If reliability is a major concern, the Civic or Corolla would be better choices. If you're prioritizing driving experience and can find a well-maintained example, the Mazda3 is a strong contender. The Hyundai Elantra is another alternative, offering good value and a long warranty.
Ranks #587 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 587 | 2016 Ford Focus | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Ford Focus a Good Hatchback?
The 2016 Ford Focus is ideal for drivers who prioritize sporty handling and modern styling in a compact car. It's worth buying *used* if you can find a well-maintained model with a manual transmission or one where the automatic transmission issues have been addressed. Avoid models with a history of transmission problems. The ST and RS models offer a thrilling driving experience but require more maintenance. Overall, proceed with caution, thoroughly inspect the car's history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, especially focusing on the transmission. Consider alternatives with better reliability if long-term dependability is your primary concern.
Sarah M. on March 18, 2025
Reliable Commuter CarThis Focus has been a great daily driver. Good gas mileage and easy to park in the city. The interior is basic but functional.
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John B. on March 18, 2025
Decent but some issuesOverall, it's an okay car. I've had some transmission issues that needed repair, which was frustrating. Otherwise, it's fuel-efficient and handles well.
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Emily K. on March 18, 2025
Great Value for the MoneyI bought this car used and I'm very happy with it. It's affordable, gets good gas mileage, and is comfortable enough for longer drives.
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David L. on March 18, 2025
Small but PracticalThe Focus is a bit small for my family, but it's perfect for commuting. I appreciate the responsive handling and the tech features for the year.
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Jessica P. on March 18, 2025
Not the best reliabilityI've had a few minor issues with my Focus, nothing major but still inconvenient. The interior materials also feel a bit cheap.
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Michael S. on March 18, 2025
Enjoyable Driving ExperienceThe Focus is fun to drive, especially the sportier trims. The steering is precise and the engine has enough power for everyday driving.
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Ashley T. on March 18, 2025
Good Fuel EconomyI mainly use this car for driving back and forth to work and I get pretty good mileage which is a plus.
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Kevin R. on March 18, 2025
Average Car, Nothing SpecialIt's a car that gets you from point A to point B. Nothing really stands out, but it does its job.
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Laura G. on March 18, 2025
Hatchback is PracticalI have the hatchback version and love the extra cargo space. It's surprisingly spacious for a compact car.
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Robert W. on March 18, 2025
Wish I had bought something elseI've had continual problems with sensors and the infotainment system. Wouldn't recommend.
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Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.