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Originally Posted by joesgot4
how would yall rank the new ford focus compared to all the other new cars?
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I have rented several Focus-es in the last year or two, and I rather liked them. I started a review for the
EM Blog a while ago and stalled-out on the project so it never got published -- but here it is.
Quote:
When the Ford Focus debuted as a 1999 model, it gained immediate popularity as an affordable and sporty domestic compact. The Focus' European accent, handling cues, and design made it pleasantly different. As Ford's "World Car", its size slipped in-between the lagging Contour/Mystique lineup with its smaller, more modern appeal. It also offered more overall room than the Escort Sedan, for which it officially replaced. The 2-door ZX2 continued into overlapping sales years. Mercury continued the Cougar compact coupe, but did not adopt a re-branded subcompact due to its upscale marketing schema (so no Tracer or Mystique replacement appeared -- the Cougar died out with the lack of 2-door vehicle popularity).
Although cutting-edge, the first years were not without massive recalls akin to its Contour predecessor, in its first model years in the U.S. After the growing pains diminished, the Focus grew into (some popular and now defunct) formulations like the ZTW Wagon, a 5-door "ZX5" hatchback, and high-performance SVT 3-door models. What has remained the same is a simple package of a compact coupe, sedan or hatchback, with good fuel economy, affordability, and taught handling. So where are we now?
In 2008 (after several facelifts) the second generation model appeared, with more aggressive lines, upgraded interior, and available upscale electronics and safety. Controversy still existed while the European Focus seemed to evolve into a class-leader (and completely independent model), while the North American version took its own course and criticism. The gas crisis and the "Cash for Clunkers" program set the Focus in the sights of new car buyers. Quality improved and so did available features.
Vehicle Tested:
2010 Ford Focus SES with leather interior, heated leather seats, SYNC / Bluetooth systems, satellite radio, and a host of other options like alloy wheels, sport appearance package, and foglamps. I was pleasantly surprised to find an entry-level model with the roots of an economy car, teamed with luxury extras found in vehicles 3-times the price. Just a few years ago, it was nearly impossible to find a small, economy-based sedan, but with high-end components offered: the compromise has often been to opt for a larger model that ate fuel for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Luckily, we have options these days.
The Drive:
First, I have to exert my observation of a huge improvement in Ford's build quality. When I have the choice, I find myself choosing Ford models over comperable foreign makes. At the time of this writing, I am enjoying the award-winning 2010 Ford Fusion as the rental du jour (fuel economy, interior ergonomics, and mile-eating audio options just make trips better).
My first experience of the new focus was with the base SE model as a rental in South Bend, Indiana. The cold, city-style driving circuit yielded an impressive 29 MPG. What I first noticed was the much-improved interior quality, design, and radio/HVAC controls. Despite the last design becoming a bit tired, the new refresh could stand alone as a all-new model with its vast improvement. This author has been known to criticize the previous generation, in its later years, for a lack of quality and missed attention to detail -- but the latest iteration deserves a closer look and respect.
Power from the 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder is strong and immediate from a standing start and pulls with confidence to the redline. Keeping a light right foot offers good fuel-economy, despite the transmission's willingness to downshift at feather-light throttle inputs. A 5-speed manual is available.
Handling in the base version is taught, with the SES (sport) version being very grippy and responsive. Ride quality has evolved into one a bit more harsh, in favor of a more youthful, sporty feel.
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That was about a year or so ago, so the competition has changed. New and used vehicles with good FE have retained their value.
Before we can recommend a vehicle, you have to ask yourself what you need, then let us know. Especially the following (and rate how important each of them are to you):
* What is your Budget?
* What vehicle style do you need -- 2-door, 3-door hatch, 5-door hatch, 4-door sedan, convertible...?
* Is there a particular brand that you prefer or avoid?
* New or Used?
* What is your Fuel Economy target?
* Transmission: Manual or Auto?
* Drivetrain: AWD necessary?
* Performance -- is it high on the list?
* Predicted Reliability important?
* Can it be serviced in your area?
* Are Union-Made vehicles important to you?
* Resale value?
* Warranty?
With these questions answered, our team of experts can point you in the right direction
