The Ford Focus Sedan 2.0i 16V ZTS Automatic, produced for the US market between 1999 and 2004, represented a significant entry for Ford into the compact car segment. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the first generation (Mk1) Focus sedan lineup, offering a balance between performance and convenience. It was built on the Ford C170 platform, a derivative of the global Focus platform, tailored to American preferences. The 2.0i ZTS Automatic aimed to provide a more refined driving experience compared to the base models, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance options available elsewhere in the world.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus Sedan (USA) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V ZTS (131 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Torque | 183 Nm @ 4500 rpm (134.97 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Zetec / C20HDEZ |
| Engine displacement | 1988 cm3 (121.32 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.75 l (6.08 US qt | 5.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 365 l (12.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4442 mm (174.88 in.) |
| Width | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2616 mm (102.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Rear track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Focus 2.0i ZTS Automatic is the Zetec 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated with the code C20HDEZ. This engine featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports for improved combustion efficiency. The 9.6:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality typically available in the US market. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, a crucial element defining this particular variant. This transmission, while providing convenience, was not known for its sportiness or fuel efficiency compared to the available five-speed manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic Focus offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. With 131 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 9.1 seconds. However, it wasn’t a particularly quick car. The automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in some power loss and a less engaging driving feel compared to the manual transmission options. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfort rather than outright performance. The automatic transmission tended to hunt for gears under hard acceleration, and lacked the responsiveness of more modern automatic transmissions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i ZTS Automatic trim generally included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The ZTS trim level also included features like a tilt steering wheel and a basic trip computer. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and alloy wheels. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus sedan utilized an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a twist-beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, resulting in a softer ride quality. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Focus 2.0i Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its comfortable ride and practical interior, but noted its lack of sporty handling and relatively slow acceleration. Compared to the base 2.0i manual transmission model, the automatic version offered less fuel efficiency and a slightly diminished driving experience. Against competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Focus offered a more European-inspired driving feel, but lacked the established reputation for reliability of its Japanese rivals. Fuel economy was rated at around 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, which was competitive for its class at the time.
Legacy
The Ford Focus 2.0i ZTS Automatic, while not a standout performer, proved to be a reliable and affordable compact car. The Zetec engine, in general, is considered relatively durable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The four-speed automatic transmission, however, is a potential weak point, with some units experiencing issues over time. Today, these cars are relatively inexpensive to purchase on the used market, making them attractive options for budget-conscious buyers. However, finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, and potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues. The 2.0i Automatic represents a specific niche within the first-generation Focus lineup, appealing to drivers who prioritized convenience and comfort over sporty performance.
