Focus is sharp as ever, but it's future is blurry
When launched some years ago, the Focus represented a bold move on Ford's part- one that would put them squarely in the middle of a raging battle between the emerging slews of other affordable, small sedans.
Perhaps squarely isn't the right word though, as it's style and shape were quite cutting edge for their time. But the players in this market were a scrappy bunch, and looks alone don't make a car. The Focus would need a few more tricks.
Versatility was the name of Ford's game. There were several body styles available, like a sedan, hatchback, wagon or five-door. Several engine, transmission and option packages were also available, including the venerable SVT Focus from Ford's Special Vehicle Team, which has since been disbanded. All of these variations and combinations ensured that the Focus would, one way or another, find esteem with the Canadian consumer.
Student? Single? Married? Family? There's a Focus just right for you.
All of this to say that Ford's everyday hero has thus far lived a full and productive life.
Has lived a productive life?
Yep. In case you didn't hear, it's due for an overhaul for 2008, which makes this year the last for the current model- including any of it's non-sedan variants.
That's right folks. The hatchback is gone. The wagon is toast. The five-door? Sayonara. Don't fret though. Maybe you used your previous Focus wagon to move, and you're now settled in and looking for something sportier. That being the case, a coupe will be available.
A few thousand kilometres with the 2007 SE sedan was beneficial in helping understand why the Focus was such a success, and what sort of shoes the new model will need to fill.
Features
The black test car was delivered with power windows and locks, 6-CD changer, keyless access, steering wheel mounted controls and a great-looking factory-installed bodykit. The latter has an angry front bumper and rear spoiler combination as well as fog lights, a rear splitter and a larger tailpipe which lend the Focus a street-smart look.
It's an ideal option for drivers after a bit more visual flare from their machine. With the GFX kit, the Focus gets second looks at lights from other motorists and pedestrians- some likely wondering why a 136 horsepower car needs a rear splitter and ducting like an Audi RS4.
Because it looks awesome, that's why- at least compared to most anything else on the road for $19,500.
Interior
The seats are comfortable, and after having logged some twelve hours on the highway the height-adjustable backrest proved a welcomed feature. Visibility is good, and most of the switches and controls are intuitive- though the ignition key requires a strange tilt of your wrist to insert, and the steering wheel mounted audio controls are fixed to an awkward looking plastic stump on the steering column, rather than to the wheel itself, which doesn't tilt.
The rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items, and the trunk is roomier than you might expect- easily accommodating a days worth of skiing gear for two.
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| The Focus was introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model year. |
Perhaps squarely isn't the right word though, as it's style and shape were quite cutting edge for their time. But the players in this market were a scrappy bunch, and looks alone don't make a car. The Focus would need a few more tricks.
Versatility was the name of Ford's game. There were several body styles available, like a sedan, hatchback, wagon or five-door. Several engine, transmission and option packages were also available, including the venerable SVT Focus from Ford's Special Vehicle Team, which has since been disbanded. All of these variations and combinations ensured that the Focus would, one way or another, find esteem with the Canadian consumer.
Student? Single? Married? Family? There's a Focus just right for you.
All of this to say that Ford's everyday hero has thus far lived a full and productive life.
Has lived a productive life?
 |
| Ford's compact car will be remastered for 2008. |
That's right folks. The hatchback is gone. The wagon is toast. The five-door? Sayonara. Don't fret though. Maybe you used your previous Focus wagon to move, and you're now settled in and looking for something sportier. That being the case, a coupe will be available.
A few thousand kilometres with the 2007 SE sedan was beneficial in helping understand why the Focus was such a success, and what sort of shoes the new model will need to fill.
Features
The black test car was delivered with power windows and locks, 6-CD changer, keyless access, steering wheel mounted controls and a great-looking factory-installed bodykit. The latter has an angry front bumper and rear spoiler combination as well as fog lights, a rear splitter and a larger tailpipe which lend the Focus a street-smart look.
It's an ideal option for drivers after a bit more visual flare from their machine. With the GFX kit, the Focus gets second looks at lights from other motorists and pedestrians- some likely wondering why a 136 horsepower car needs a rear splitter and ducting like an Audi RS4.
Because it looks awesome, that's why- at least compared to most anything else on the road for $19,500.
Interior
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| The interior is user-friendly but shows its age. |
The rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items, and the trunk is roomier than you might expect- easily accommodating a days worth of skiing gear for two.