according to this article in the New York Times, the transmission suffers from too early upshifts in order to keep fuel efficiency high, keeping engine speed low, thus resulting in the jerks some have mentioned here. I wonder if the latest firmware update has resolved this issue. Can anyone confirm?

The article also contends that in Sport-mode, the transmission automatically downshifts when tapping on the brakes. Has anyone experienced this?

what about jerking/grinding at low speeds and when shifting from R to D? Do you experience that?

hi guys, heard from a friend that owns a titanium plus, that his engine vibrates intermittently at idle. It vibrates, then stop awhile, then vibrate again. Brought back to SA, they said its like that (engine's characteristics). Anyone else experience this?

To all Focus owner out there, would like to ask some question about our beloved vehicle:

1) I noticed the blower (fan) are not consistent, sometimes it will get stronger suddenly and back to normal in few seconds time, especially notice able when you're put the blower stronger (level 3-4 and above), but thanks to my sensitive ears, I notice it even in level 1...

I could live without the additional features...but kiasu that I would regret like you did....additional features would mean additinal things to repair/service later on.
so far what is the best deal been offer for focus?

ford focus sport+ has any defects ???

plan to get a new car since there are alot of promotion for car

hi all.. need opinion.. really interest on focus
but many people mention about the jerking problem
and really not suitable in city drive.. will always jerk
i mainly for city drive only
the problem really serious??
any owner only city drive here??

Yes, the vehicle is pretty restless at low speeds.

Slope with speed bumps - this will bring out the worst in the Focus. All grinding sound and jerks will come out.

I only tried Petronas in the first 2,000km. Tried Caltex briefly and now only BHP. BHP feels good without much jerks, but when switching from one fuel to another fuel, the car may show more jerks as it adjusts to the different type of fuel. Better to not change fuels too often I think. Switching from RON95 to RON97 I feel more power but the jerks at low speeds seem a bit stronger. Now back to RON95 as seem to be throwing money with RON97(additional RM30-40 with one full tank).

worst than restless, whenever i see slopes am very worry especially with passengers. My family members already asking if I made a bad purchase *sigh*.
I like the Focus since first generation and didnt expect this to haunt me.

That's the price you pay for the efficiency of a dual clutch transmission. It is different from traditional torque converters for sure, it is more sophisticated and more temperamental at low speeds.

If you are used to a torque converter auto and worry about the eccentricities of a dual-clutch drivetrain, I can only advise you to think long and hard before making the jump. It will never be as comfortable as a torque converter when going slow or going up slopes, you will no doubt need to adjust the way you drive. If you cannot accept that, then go for something like the new Mazda 3 that is almost as nice to drive but comes with the benefit of a torque converter.

Choose the Focus ONLY if you are looking forward to superior driving dynamics and driver's enjoyment. If you're looking for passenger comfort and cares not so much about driving, an Altis, Civic or Mazda3 is a better choice