Ford Focus S, SE, Titanium & More Trims

In later third-generation cars, the SE adds everyday conveniences including 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system, power rear windows, a front armrest with storage and rear climate vents. The S remains the simpler sedan.

In later lineups, the SEL is a substantial comfort and technology upgrade. It adds an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a moonroof, upgraded Sony audio, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors and 17-inch wheels.

On later cars, Titanium adds the richer cabin equipment. Key upgrades include heated leather-trimmed front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power driver’s seat, push-button start and remote start. Both trims already have the larger touchscreen and upgraded audio.

The ST is a 252-hp, front-wheel-drive hatchback with a six-speed manual. The later RS raises output to 350 hp, adds all-wheel drive, selectable drive modes and more track-focused hardware. Both are performance models, but the RS is the more extreme car.

They belong to different parts of the Focus timeline. SEL is generally the comfort-and-technology trim, including its return near the top of the later lineup. On older cars, SES is the sportier regular model, with unique styling, 17-inch wheels and firmer suspension tuning.

No. Focus Electric is a fully electric hatchback with an electric motor, battery and single-speed transmission instead of a gasoline engine. Later examples also have an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, heated front seats, automatic climate control and DC fast charging.

No. The ST is a true performance hatchback with a 252-hp turbocharged engine, six-speed manual transmission and sport suspension. Its unique steering wheel, performance gauges and 18-inch wheels reinforce the sporty focus, but the mechanical changes are the main point.

The RS is the most specialized Focus. Sold late in the third generation, it combines a 350-hp turbo engine, six-speed manual, all-wheel drive, selectable driving modes and Recaro sport seats. Final-year cars also received a mechanical front limited-slip differential.

The S suits shoppers who want the simplest later-model Focus sedan, with air conditioning, Bluetooth, keyless entry and a rearview camera. The SE is the more comfortable commuter choice because it adds cruise control, power rear windows and better audio.

Titanium is the comfort-focused pick among later regular Focus trims. It brings heated leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, a power driver’s seat, remote start and the larger touchscreen. SEL is a useful middle ground with many tech upgrades but less luxury equipment.

Pick the ST for turbo performance, a manual gearbox and sharper suspension. Pick Titanium for heated leather-trimmed seats, an easier comfort-first personality and richer convenience equipment. The ST is a performance hatchback; Titanium is the upscale regular Focus.

No. In the third-generation U.S. lineup, the ST uses a six-speed manual transmission. That makes it a better match for someone who enjoys shifting gears and a poor fit for a shopper who specifically needs an automatic.

On later models, SEL and Titanium include the 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The basic S and SE use a smaller 4.2-inch display with Bluetooth and USB instead. Equipment differs on earlier cars, so verify the exact vehicle.

On later cars, Titanium has heated leather-trimmed front seats, while Focus Electric includes heated front seats as part of its relatively rich equipment. The final RS also has heated front seats. Regular S, SE and SEL equipment does not include them in the later lineup described here.