Ford Focus generations (1998-2025)
A full list of all the Ford Focus model years
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The Ford Focus is more-or-less the backbone of British roads, or at least it has been for the last three decades.
Sadly, it was discontinued in 2025 after a 27-year lifespan to make room for a new era of fully electric SUVs.
But not all hope is lost because there are still more than a million Ford Focus models registered in the UK.
Below is a comprehensive list of all the Ford Focus generations from 1998 to 2025.
Full list of Ford Focus generations:
Ford Focus Mk1 (1998-2004)
Ford Focus Mk2 (2004-2010)
Ford Focus Mk3 (2010-2018)
Ford Focus Mk4 (2018-2025)
Special model mentions (ST and RS models)
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Ford Focus Mk1 (1998-2004)
 "Ford Focus Mk1")
It all began in 1998 with the first-generation Ford Focus. The goal was simple: make a car that millions of people will buy and use every day. And that’s exactly what happened.
Its design was very inoffensive, which played to the Mk1’s strength of being a car for the masses.
The Mk1 also drove fantastically well for its class, clearly taking driving lessons from its wiser Escort relative.
Even if you didn’t want to slither briskly down a country lane, the Mk1 Focus was great at being a hatchback or an estate, which was launched at the same time.
Ford Focus Mk2 (2004-2010)
 "Ford Focus Mk2")
It was never going to be easy following on from the first album – something Kate Bush experienced with ‘Lionheart’.
But this didn’t stop the Mk2 Focus from selling well, and you still see some on the roads today.
The Focus Mk2 is larger and considerably heavier than its predecessor, and as a result, interior and boot space are improved.
Ford also added tech such as a KeyFree system, a solar-reflect windshield, adaptive front lighting, Bluetooth and climate control.
Ford Focus Mk3 (2010-2018)
 "Ford Focus Mk3")
By the time we got to the Focus Mk3, this plucky hatchback was a very favourable and grown-up option for families, new drivers, etc.
It had a better interior finish and a more comfortable ride than previous generations, a wide variety of engine options and better fuel efficiency than ever before.
Features that set it apart include a new redesigned front-end design, incorporating Ford's new grille and slimmer headlights.
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Ford Focus Mk4 (2018-2025)
 "Ford Focus Mk4")
If you’re looking to buy a Ford Focus and want the roomiest, most efficient and safest option, then the Mk4 is where you should put your money.
It was on sale for six years and was discontinued in late 2025 as Ford made a shift towards SUVs and electric cars.
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Special model generations
Ford Focus RS (Mk1)
 "Ford Focus RS Mk1")
Ford had not used its famous RS (Rallye Sport) badge on a car since the 1993 Escort RS2000, so when it arrived on the boot lid of the Mk1 Focus, eyebrows were instantly raised.
But soon after, hairs were standing on end when the public realised this was going to be one of the greatest cars to wear this badge for many years to come.
It looked like a rally car and had the turbocharger noises and excellent handling to match.
Ford Focus RS (Mk2)
 "Ford Focus RS Mk2")
By the time the Mk2 Focus RS skidded onto the scene, fast Fords were well and truly back in action.
It arrived in 2009 with a modified version of the Focus ST’s 2.5-litre engine, and we wouldn’t be surprised if it resulted in a few people losing their licences...
Ford Focus RS (Mk3)
 "Ford Focus RS Mk3")
Ford saw how competitive the Volkswagen Golf R, Audi RS3 and Mercedes A45 AMG were and decided to silence them with the launch of the Focus RS Mk3.
This was a four-wheel drive hooligan with a dedicated drift button to do big skids. It said to the German competition, “this is what fun looks like on four wheels,” and sometimes two, no doubt.
Ford Focus ST (Mk4)
 "Ford Focus ST Mk4")
Ford never sold a Mk4 Focus RS on the account of it being cancelled at the final hour due to strict emissions testing and development costs.
But we still got the final iteration of the Focus ST, which brought back the feeling of older RS cars without being too much of a handful.
What’s the best Ford Focus generation?
The best Ford Focus generation is by far the later Mk4. It’s efficient, smooth to drive, practical, comfy and still affordable.
All versions of the Focus have been brilliant, but it’s hard to beat the latest and final generation as an everyday car.
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Explore used Ford Focus cars for sale
If you’ve picked the car you want, check out our full range of used Ford Focus models for sale.
Still not sure which car you want? Browse our used hatchbacks for sale for even more choice.