In the crowded class of compact cars, the 2018 Ford Focus and the 2018 Mazda 3
 stand out as two cars with broad appeal and value. There are many similarities between the two, but which one is the right choice for your needs?
Drivers in the regions of Langhorne and Bensalem and throughout the Philadelphia metro area can explore the major differences between the Ford Focus and the Mazda 3 with this direct comparison.
See special offers available now!
Performance
The Ford Focus has a range of engine options for everyone. The base 1.0L three-cylinder produces 123 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, and this small-displacement engine offers superior gas mileage and efficiency. It's paired to an automatic 6-speed.
The next in the lineup is a 2.0L direct-injected inline-four that produces 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, with the option of a five-speed manual, six-speed dual-clutch, or an automatic 6-speed transmission. This variant offers a little more excitement and power than the three-cylinder.
High performance options for the Focus include the 240-horsepower, 2.0L turbo-four with a six-speed manual transmission, an upgraded suspension and high-performance tires and a 350-horsepower, 2.3L turbo-four with all-wheel drive, dynamic torque vectoring, a six-speed manual transmission and sport performance brakes, suspension, exhaust, and stability control.
The standard engine for the Mazda 3 is a 2.0L inline-four that produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, matched up with an automatic 6-speed or a six-speed manual transmission. There's also a 2.5L inline-four with the same transmission options, which produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, the Mazda 3 doesn't offer sport-performance add-ons or a high-performance engine option, and the power is uninspired under 4,000 rpm.
To make matters worse, the Mazda also requires constant throttle contact, which reduces its fuel economy, and handling is subpar for its size and design. The Focus wins here, with its sharp, athletic handling, low-end power, and overall composure, as well as its variety of performance options to adjust the drive to your taste.
Comfort and Quality
The seating in the Ford Focus is plush, supportive and stylish, with proper sculpting and padding. The sculpted dash increases the feeling of space in the cabin as well, and all passengers will benefit from the ample head- and legroom throughout.
The Mazda 3 falls short in this category, with its cramped cabin, tight legroom, and
 low roofline. The seating is made of cheap materials as well, and the padding is nearly absent in the back seat.
Features
The Ford Focus has a range of performance options, customization features, and a top-of-the-line infotainment system, as well as a myriad of standard features and standalone options. Ford's MyKey® system, a rearview camera, the SYNC® 3 infotainment system with smartphone integration and a suite of active safety features are just some of the available features for the Focus.
The Mazda 3 also includes a rearview camera standard, but it lacks the array of available features and it has no option of including Apple CarPlayâ„¢ and Android Autoâ„¢ smartphone integration. In addition, the Mazda infotainment system is one of the most frustrating and difficult to use on the market.
Test the New Focus at Fred Beans Ford of Langhorne
Unfortunately for the Mazda 3, the Ford Focus wins on performance, comfort, space, and customization options. Drivers all across Philadelphia, Langhorne, and Bensalem can experience the difference by visiting Fred Beans Ford of Langhorne to schedule a test drive of the 2018 Ford Focus. Contact us today!