Ford has officially announced that it will end production of the beloved Focus hatchback in November 2025, marking a significant shift in the company’s European lineup.
This decision follows the discontinuation of the Mondeo and Fiesta, highlighting Ford’s evolving strategy in response to changing market demands.
No Direct Successor for the Focus
According to Finn Thomasen, Ford’s European Communications Manager, there are no plans to introduce a direct replacement for the Focus. While customers can still place orders for custom configurations, production at Ford’s Saarlouis plant in Germany will soon wind down, leaving only existing stock available.
The Ford Focus, introduced in 1998 as the successor to the Escort, quickly became a favorite among European car buyers. Known for its sharp handling, practicality, and affordability, the Focus remained a strong competitor in the compact car segment. The sporty Focus ST, one of the last manual-transmission hot hatchbacks, will also disappear, disappointing performance enthusiasts.
Ford’s Shift to “Iconic Vehicles” and Higher Profitability
Ford CEO Jim Farley has reiterated the company’s focus on profitability, moving away from mass-market cars toward “iconic vehicles” such as the Bronco, Tremor, Raptor, and Mustang. This strategy aims to position Ford as the “Porsche of off-road”, prioritizing high-margin models over traditional compact cars.
While this move aligns with Ford’s successful SUV and truck-focused strategy in the U.S., it leaves Ford Europe without a conventional compact hatchback. The Mustang, one of the few remaining Ford passenger cars, faces challenges in Europe’s tax-heavy emissions market, raising doubts about its ability to fill the void left by the Focus.
Market Challenges and Future Outlook
Ford’s European sales have been impacted by these shifts. In 2024, Ford’s market share declined to 3.3%, with sales dropping 17%. To adapt, Ford is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, introducing models like the Puma EV, Mustang Mach-E, and upcoming Explorer and Capri EVs. However, the absence of a traditional compact car remains a challenge.
The end of the Focus reflects a broader industry trend toward SUVs and electrification. While Ford embraces this shift, the loss of an iconic, well-loved model like the Focus leaves a nostalgic gap for many longtime fans.
