Value:
Given that we tested the upper-end SEL model, overall I think that the Focus is a really good value. For slightly over $20k, you get a car with a lot of thoughtful features, and one that gets excellent gas mileage. It would get you where you’re going safely (with 4-star rated frontal crash for both passenger and driver, 4 stars for rollover, 5 stars for the front seats in a side impact collision, and 4 stars for the rear compartment of a side impact collision). Dual-stage air bags all around for driver and passenger front, as well as side impact air bags and curtains for both rows of seating. Standard safety features on all Focus trims for 2010 are AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control, four-wheel ABS, tire pressure monitoring system, and the MyKey system. With our SEL trim, an enhanced suspension, 16 inch alloy wheels, Ford SYNC, and leather-trimmed, heated leather seats are included as standard equipment.
Now if you wanted a compact car with impressive performance, you obviously wouldn’t be looking here. But if you wanted a compact car that regularly held its own in the ratings against the top imports (the Focus has generally been finishing 3rd in sales against its more popular import rivals), then this is your car. The American car makers (Ford has definitely done this) are starting to listen to what the public is complaining about, and taking action. I’d like it if they listened regarding the cabin noise! That update alone (and it could be something as simple as the changing the tires on the car, adjusting the tire pressure, or riding on a crappy road surface) would make this car a GOLD mine.
Conclusion:
The Ford Focus is a really decent compact car, with a lot of really thoughtful safety, comfort and convenience features. It’s got enough room to put friends in, or your bike, your dog, your groceries – enough room to satisfy most people’s needs. Add a few sets of skis or snowboards, your friends and the front-wheel drive will get you where you need to be, safely!
| BUILD | INTERIOR | PERFORMANCE | HANDLING | STYLING | VALUE | OVERALL | |
| RATING | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.25 | 4.5 | 4.75 | 5.0 | 4.5/A- |
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 Official website for Ford cars, hybrids, trucks, and SUVs – www.fordvehicles.com |
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Shouldn`t the comments on the seat heaters be in “the good” section? Seat heaters that work exceptionally well are generally considered a positive thing. Just saying is all…
Good point. I moved the seat heater observation to the “good” list.