Competition
The Focus SES Sport Coupe retails for $21,494, and this car includes the $1,000 Luxury Package (heated seats and sunroof) as well as the $695 Audiophile sound system with trunk space-eating subwoofer, for a grand total of $23,189.
Here's a look at other compact 2-doors:
Chevrolet Cobalt LT 1SB with options, 148 hp, $21,835
Honda Civic LX Coupe with sunroof, 140 hp, $22,180
Mini Cooper Classic with options, 118 hp, $23,400
Pontiac G5 SE 1SB with options, 148 hp, $22,185
Saturn Astra XR 3-door with options, 138 hp, $22,360
Volkswagen Rabbit 2.5 3-door with options, 170 hp, $23,075
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| The rear portion looks a little unfinished, as the trunklid seems to have been taken off a different car. |
Conclusion
Most people who shop for a compact are looking for a car that's reliable, comfortable, attractive and cheap to own and maintain. The Ford Focus will satisfy those needs and wants very well. It's quieter and more refined than ever.
The SES Sport is a little pricey, nipping on the heels of the base Fusion SE. But a $19,999 SES Coupe is well-equipped and makes perfect sense, despite its black mirrors and door handles. In addition, the techno-savvy crowd should take a long look at the Sync system, a good reason in itself to consider the Focus.
The fact that the Honda Civic is more fuel-efficient or the Volkswagen Rabbit is more fun to drive isn't that important for many, and the Focus always has good incentives to sweeten the deal. It may have been reheated in the microwave, but it sure doesn't taste like leftovers.
photo:Philippe Champoux
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