Ford Focus Overview

The Focus is completely redesigned for 2012, featuring not just new styling but much-improved powertrains and platform as well. The compact car is available as either a sedan or 5-door hatchback in S, SE, SEL and Titanium trim levels. Powering the front wheels is a 2.0-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder making 160 hp, mated to either a 5-speed manual or one of two 6-speed automatics. The PowerShift 6-speed unit found on the upscale SEL and Titanium trims offers manual shift control.

Fuel economy is very good, averaging around 27 city/37 highway mpg depending on trim level and transmission choice, or up to 28 city/40 highway mpg with the optional SFE efficiency package. The Titanium Handling Package offers an upgraded sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and low-profile summer tires. Once an also-ran in the hotly competitive compact car segment, the new Focus deserves careful consideration.