2012 Ford FOCUS: Eye candy with an attitude - Car of the year?

The Third Generation Ford Focus was presented in late 2010 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. It sported many innovative technologies which make it stand out from the competition. Its greatest failing may be its price, which seems higher than similar vehicles in the same market segment.

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To begin, one notices the Ford Focus immediately. The design team did a good job on this one. The exterior  has sleek lines and the paint has a deep lustre, which inspires confidence as to its durability when exposed to the elements. There is a very modern and sporty Euro feel to the car, both for the styling and the stance of the vehicle.

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Once you open the door, you are invited into a well appointed interior. Strategically placed led lights illuminate the cabin, making you feel at home. The seats have a nice feel, and provide good lateral support. The adjustment for the recline of the seat may be improved in the future. The dash is soft to the touch and from the driver's seat, you know you are driving a technologically advanced car.

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When you turn the key, there is a very slight hesitation before the engine roars to live, a reminder of the increased electronic wizardry that now separates the driver from the car. The power steering is electric, there is no cap for the gas tank (a rubber gasket seals the gas refill door).  When the engine is at idle, you feel some vibrations from the motor. This is more than you would expect from a brand new car, and most poeple will notice it right away. This may be linked to the new transmission setup. It is a manual transmission that is shifted electronically. Ford calls is the POWERSHIFT.

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Driving the car is a pleasure. The logic that controls the transmission is oriented toward fuel economy, and you are reminded of this by the dash panel which shows instantaneous fuel consumption. It is like hypermiling without even trying. To put the car through its paces, you have to floor the accelerator and then, the Direct Injected 2.0 liter engine rated at 160 Hp starts to shine. Yes, you will have a smile on your face, and believe it or not, this car has nothing to fear from any import in its class.

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The car is nimble on its feet and longs for twisty two lane country roads or tricky mountain passes. Long term, we still have to see how the Manumatic POWERSHIFT transmission holds. If down the road it proves its resilience, then a whole new era of fuel efficient manual cars with electronic shifting will be ushered in. And FORD MOTORS once more will be hailed as the industry leader - whom they are!

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