10 Used Ford Compact Cars Under $10,000

Throughout the last 25 years, Ford has maintained success through manufacturing compact cars. Many of Ford’s compact cars can be purchased on today’s market for under $10,000. Compact cars have always been a massive success in Europe due to narrow roads, limited parking, and culture. Meanwhile, in North America, roadways are more spacious, and Americans love their trucks that can tow. So, how does a car manufacturer make a lineup for two different lifestyles at two distant points in the world?

The main similarity between the two is being affordable and reliable. Some cars listed below have won awards in various countries for the best car of the year. Ford has been America’s number one brand several times, providing an increase in the number of cars being made, which allows for affordability to come into play.

The car market has been chaotic in recent years, with a continuous cycle of prices skyrocketing and then plummeting. Recently, used-car prices have begun to soften, which opens a window to buying a reliable used car. One could easily guess some of the top contenders by just looking at cars in traffic. After a quick glance at American roadways, one can conclude that models such as the Focus and Fiesta are among the many compact cars on the road.

Asking for a car under $10,000 is becoming more far-fetched than in the past. Despite times changing, Ford has maintained and provided several compact cars to match these requirements. Keep in mind that, over time, these cars have accumulated mileage and have been left in the dust by future generations. Here are Ford’s ten compact cars that show promise.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Ford and other authoritative sources, including Edmunds, and Consumer reports. The average used car prices were sourced from Kelly Blue Book. Models in the list have been arranged based on the average used price, going from the most expensive to the cheapest.

10 2015 Ford Fiesta ST Hatchback

Average Used Price: $9,669

Sometimes, skipping dinner and heading straight to the dessert is the way to go. Today’s special is the thrilling Fiesta ST. For people interested in a practical performance-based car, the Fiesta is the correct choice for you. This sporty hatchback distinguishes itself from the base models by a sporty exterior. 17-inch wheels with summer performance tires come standard, backed up with a sport-tuned suspension. Whether you go with the ST-specific sports seats or the optioned Recaro front seats, you’ll be pleased with this action-packed hot hatch.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds and Ford)

It’s the perfect entryway into a sporty car while maintaining fuel efficiency. Ford ended production and sales of the Fiesta in the North American market in 2019. Recently, Ford stated that the production of Fiestas will end worldwide by 2023. Soon, the STs will be hidden gems within the car market. Now is a great time to pick up the desirable Fiesta, with many on the market having low mileage.

Pros

• Sport suspension that plants the car on the road.
• Excellent gas mileage for a car based on performance.
• Good bang for your buck.

Cons

• The cabin feels tight with limited cargo storage.
• Suspension is on the stiffer side, causing the car to become rigid at all times.
• The seating is uncomfortable and small.

9 2013 Focus ST

Average Used Price: $9,545

The 2013 Focus ST was developed around European vehicle dynamics. Packed with tight springs and torque vectoring, it helps keep the ST planted while turning at high speeds. This car is another option for a sporty ride and, surprisingly, comes with great technology. MyFordTouch and SYNC come standard in the Focus ST, making it a hands-free driving environment. Unlike the base models, the ST is fitted with aggressive paneling. The front bumper has a wider grille due to its larger intake than the other models.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, Ford, and Car And Driver)

The lack of comfort in the Ford Focus disappears when experiencing the raw performance of the engine and suspension. Jay Leno seemed pleased when reviewing the ST, saying it was a great daily driver for a wide variety of people. This car would be considered the top choice by many due to its recognition for fuel efficiency and thrilling drive. It is another solid option for a versatile car that comes jam-packed with performance features.

Pros

• It comes standard with centered exhaust, unlike the majority of sports cars.
• Responsive turbo with minimal lag.
• Standard 18-inch wheels.

Cons

• Backseats have little legroom.
• The engine is less reliable than the rest.
• Infotainment controls are not user-friendly.

8 2016 C-Max SE Hybrid

Average Used Price: $8,837

The Ford C-Max is ideal for those who want extra room in a compact vehicle. That would be a bit of a conundrum, but Ford developed a car that can do both. This is the right choice for consumers focused on eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency. It is a hybrid, but you won’t lose the enjoyment of driving this vehicle. The C-Max shares the same hybrid powertrain, the 2.0-liter inline 4 with an electric motor, as the Ford Fusion Hybrid. Ford designed the car around their European lineup, creating a polished interior and smooth ride.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds and Ford)

The area the C-Max exceeds in is the interior. The 5-passenger car provides comfortable headroom with soft-touch surfaces and an upscale cabin. This is impressive, especially when considering the class category it sits in. You would think a budget of $10,000 wouldn’t get you a lot, but the C-Max comes with optional features such as SYNC 3 and a newly designed touchscreen menu system. If a roomier cabin and fuel economy are the deal breakers, then the C-Max takes the win in those categories.

Pros

• The Ford’s MyKey allows parents to program the key to limit the car’s top speed and radio volume.
• More visibility with an elevated driving position.
• Great fuel economy.

Cons

• Brakes take longer to stop than average.
• The Prius beats the C-Max in most areas.
• The exterior is built around function over appeal.

7 2018 Fiesta SE Sedan

Average Used Price: $8,720

Some might think 2018 was not that long ago, and the Fiesta SE reflects that through its up-to-date features and modern interior. The 2018 Fiesta is a perfect choice for someone wanting the luxuries of a new car but with a lowered price tag.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, and Ford)

The Fiesta represents compact cars in the sense that there is minimal room in the cabin. If driving with less legroom doesn’t bother you, then you’ll be happy with the other features of this well-rounded car. Through the success of UK sales, Ford further developed their compact cars centered on driving dynamics and exceptional technologies. There’s a reason why the Fiesta is one of Ford’s best-selling cars of all time. Whether going on a long-distance trip or powering along winding roads, the Fiesta will handle most of what’s thrown in its way.

Pros

• Ford plans to retire the Fiestas but will continue to keep the maintenance up-to-date.
• The newest model on the list.
• Low running costs.

Cons

• Automatic transmission is known to have issues.
• Cramped rear seating.
• The car is low to the ground, causing issues such as headlights shown in mirrors.

6 2017 Focus SE 4D Sedan

Average Used Price: $8,419

Another newer model has entered the list, and don’t let its price fool you. The Focus SE is another efficient car that packs a punch. Although the Focus had a facelift in 2014, Ford decided to leave the interior the same. The abundance of plastic trim throughout the interior can make this car feel dated. Looking past some of its flaws, a reliable platform underneath unfolds through its well-balanced engine.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, and Ford)

The Ford Focus is one of the world’s most popular cars, and what better than having a newer, more affordable generation? Its last redesign was in 2012, but Ford updated certain areas along the way. This particular year has the optional SYNC 3 infotainment system, Apple Carplay, and Android Auto smartphone integration. This car best suits people who want a steady car with some modern technology.

Pros

• Optional powertrains allow it to suit the driver.
• User-friendly infotainment technology.
• Available options for upscale interior and technology packages.

Cons

• Underwhelming performance and acceleration.
• The cabin feels cramped, especially in the backseat.
• The Focus EcoBoost is lacking in range.

5 2015 Fiesta SE 4D Sedan

Average Used Price: $6,359

The 2015 Fiesta stands out among the rest and is one of the best choices on the list. Ford didn’t hold back when developing one of their least expensive models in the showroom. The chassis feels nimble when driving and brings minimal noise from the outside.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, and Ford)

Technology is a must for some drivers and this Fiesta delivers substantial standard features. Ford’s SYNC AppLink provides a hands-free driving experience by connecting to the phone through Bluetooth. Some of the cars on the list are catered to a specific party, such as automotive enthusiasts, comfort over fuel economy, and affordability. The 2015 Fiesta hits all the marks with a classy interior, sporty performance, and great price for what it is. This is a solid choice when looking for a car under $10,000.

Pros

• Cheap to operate.
• Bluetooth phone connectivity.
• Options for both manual and automatic.

Cons

• The automatic transmission has quirky behaviors.
• Tiny and uncomfortable seating in the front and rear.
• It doesn’t have a good long-distance fuel economy.

4 2009 Focus SEL 4D Sedan

Average Used Price: $3,999

Many of the cars on the list are centered around their SE (Special Edition) class. The main “focus” around SE’s is its fuel economy. What’s the next step up? That would be the SEL, which brings “Limited” and “Luxury” to the interior and exterior. Now, don’t jump at the idea of the Mercedes SEL because this is a budget-friendly list. If an upscaled interior with leather seating options is needed, then the Focus SEL is the better car on the list.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, Ford, and MotorTrend)

Ford’s Focus models have been centered around a strong drive and great handling, so of course, this car will match those characteristics. More aesthetically pleasing items, such as 16-inch aluminum wheels wrapped with premium Pirelli tires from the factory, are a nice gesture from Ford. Along with the flashy shoes for the SEL, the dash stands out from the others with a brushed nickel finish. The SEL is an excellent choice for people who want a bit of luxury and fuel economy.

Pros

• The leather-trimmed seats come standard with heated seats.
• Smooth ride quality.
• Responsive handling.

Cons

• There is a possibility of missing some luxury features due to it being add-ons.
• Very standard and dull over time.
• Mazda 3 is a better alternative.

3 2004 SVT Hatchback 4D

Average Used Price: $3,904

Want the Focus ST but don’t have the funds? This is the next best thing. The 2004 SVT Focus is a collector’s car that appeals to automotive enthusiasts. Ford only produced 4,788 units, making it a rare car on the list. The car was developed by Ford’s SVT team, which stands for Special Vehicle Team. Iconic cars such as the Cobra SVT were built by the same hands as the Focus SVT.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ford, and Edmunds)

The Focus SVT is one of the best hot hatches of all time. Surprisingly, this car received a 6-speed transmission before the Mustang had one. This was done so the specially tuned Zetec engine could maintain power through high RPMs that reach up to 7,000. If you’re looking for a car that stands out among the crowd, then look no further than the Focus SVT.

Pros

• It has convenient standard features like cruise control, adjustable driver seat, and temp gauges.
• Exterior colors match the aesthetic of a sportier car.
• All around fun-to-drive.

Cons

• The six-speed transmission doesn’t have a limited-slip differential.
• It’s not as reliable as the other cars on the list.
• The majority have higher miles.

2 2003 Focus SE 4D Sedan

Average Used Price: $2,122

Here’s a car that was being sold for $10,000 upon its release. Although many of the cars on the list have decent safety ratings, the 2003 Focus received outstanding ratings according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Take into account that these ratings were given 20 years ago when safety features weren’t integrated as heavily as they are now.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, Ford, and MotorTrend)

The 2003 Focus would not be the pick of the litter, but it has decent qualities to get a person from point A to point B. Yes, it is less appealing than the rest, but it’s hard to beat the price for a car that comes with decent gas mileage. If the only aspect of owning a car is getting to the destination, then this is a perfect contender to get the job done.

Pros

• A better option when looking at affordability, family-friendliness, and safety.
• Remote keyless entry.
• Maintenance and parts are cheap.

Cons

• Known electrical issues.
• A recall that affected 58,640 units where gasoline would leak into the engine.
• Entertainment technology is outdated and basic.

1 2002 Ford Escort ZX2

Average Used Price: $1,988

This list descends by price point, but the Ford Escort ZX2 is the winner of which car should be in last place. The reasoning is that Escorts are harder to come by and come with heavy mileage. Surprisingly, the Escort continues to be one of Ford’s more reliable cars. Similar to the rest, you’ll have a car that’s fun to drive at the lower end of the budget.

Available features include power windows, remote keyless entry, and leather-trimmer sport bucket seats. The Escort won’t be able to compete against the rest on the list with performance, interior quality, and technology, but it beats them out of the park with its average price being below $2,000.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Edmunds, Ford, and Motortrend)

Although it’s not the iconic Ford Escort most people would want, it is still a solid car for what it is. The Escort might be an outlier on this list, but it holds its weight by being an early 2000s car. It’s true; they don’t make them like they used to, and this car provides a mechanically simplistic platform.

Pros

• Easy to maintain and solid powertrain.
• Crazy cheap with minor issues as long as you can find one for sale.
• One word: Reliable. It might be outdated, but the car itself has minimal issues.

Cons

• A four-seater, unlike the five-seaters above.
• The Ford Focus ZX3 does everything better than the Escort ZX2.
• A single model means no other trim levels.