5/5/11

What Is the Difference Between a Ford Focus SE and a Ford Focus SES?

    • Weighing the differences between a Focus SE and a Focus SES. scales image by dinostock from Fotolia.com

      In 2000, Ford introduced the Focus as an entry-level car to their world markets. At the time, the same car was available both in Europe and in the States. To satisfy European customers, the car had very responsive handling and steering. Although the Focus is no longer the same care worldwide, it is still one of the most popular entry-level cars on the market. In 2011, both the Ford Focus SE and Focus SES models are available as both a four-door sedan and two-door coupe. There are, however, notable differences between the two trim lines.

    Engine and Suspension

    • Both cars come standard with the 2.0-liter Duratec I-4 engine and 5-speed manual transmission. There is an available 4-speed automatic transmission as an option; however, there is no other engine offered for both cars. It is in the suspension where the differences between the SE and the SES start to show. The SE comes standard with front stabilizer bars, European-inspired suspension and Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control. The SES is sportier, with front and rear stabilizer bars, performance-tuned suspension and the AdvanceTrac stability control.

    Cockpit Differences

    • Standard interior equipment for the SE includes a black and white instrument cluster, a vinyl tilt steering wheel, and a manual mirror. Options for the SE include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control and an auto-dimming mirror. The SES, however, comes standard with metallic instrument panels, performance instrument cluster with bright rings, ambient lighting, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, cruise control and an auto-dimming mirror. There is a power moon-roof and shade option available.

    Entertainment and Seats

    • Both the SE and SES come equipped with Sirius Satellite Radio and cloth seats. For the SE, Ford's SYNC system is available as an option. The SES has SYNC as a standard feature, with a premium sound system as an option. Only the SES has leather-trimmed seats and heated front seats as optional equipment. Safety and security features are the same for both cars.

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