Unlike some EVs, the Ford Focus Electric feels like a real car. It's solid, sophisticated and a delight to drive. The Focus EV is also quick, provides effortless acceleration, agile handling, and a supple and composed ride.
Add to those qualities a quiet interior and an upscale overall feel, and you can mostly justify the off-putting purchase price: nearly $40,000 before the $7,500 tax credit. But current lease deals of $199 a month make the Ford Focus Electric very attractive.
With its lithium-ion battery pack fully charged, we got a driving range of about 80 miles. Power consumption worked out to 3.18 miles per kilowatt hour, the equivalent of 107 mpg overall—one better than the Focus's main rival, the Nissan Leaf.
Charge times are relatively quick, as well, taking less than 4 hours from fully depleted to fully charged, using 240-voltage. The detailed instruments allow you to monitor the Focus's energy consumption. Ford even provides a smart-phone app so you can remotely track your car's charging status.
Of course, the basic limitations of all Focuses apply to the EV, as well. Most noteworthy are the cramped rear seat and the maddening MyFord Touch touch-activated climate and audio controls. In addition, the lithium-ion battery packs consume much of the modest cargo space. But if you're seriously considering an electric car, the Focus is one of the best you'll find right now.
