2010 Ford Focus

Ford's venerable Focus is available in either sedan or coupe form. All 2010 Focus models come with a 2.0-liter Duratec inline 4-cylinder engine. In the sedan models, the engine makes 140 horsepower, while in coupes with the manual transmission it delivers 143 hp. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on both models and a 4-speed automatic is available. With the standard 5-speed, the Focus achieves EPA highway fuel economy ratings of 35 mpg highway.

Focus coupes come standard with fog lamps, along with aggressive front and rear fascias, plus darkened chrome accents around the grille and headlamps. The attractive interior is finished with a matte-metallic look, front seats are better than those in many other small cars, and back seat space is even adequate in 2-door models, though access can be difficult.

The Focus improves its safety feature list for 2010, with Advance Trac with electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes added to the long list of standards, which includes front thorax side airbags and full-length side curtain bags.

The Focus sedan comes in base S and SE, sporty SES and luxurious SEL trims, while the coupe comes only in SE and SES trims. SES coupe models get a sport-tuned exhaust and stiffer suspension tuning, and 17-inch wheels are available. The new SEL model brings a dressed-up appearance with 16-inch "Euroflanged" wheels, chrome door handles, chromed heated mirrors and heated leather seats.

The base S sedan is a relative bargain, with air conditioning, tilt steering and a CD sound system are all standard. At the top of the range, the SEL can be optioned with a power moonroof, Audiophile sound system with subwoofer and remote start. SYNC, a feature integrated with the sound system that allows voice-activated hands-free calling, along with voice-activated control over portable music devices like iPods or PDAs, is standard on the Focus SES and SEL and available on the other models.
Following a redesign in 2008 and significant changes in 2009, the Ford Focus heads into 2010 with few updates, though safety features have been enhanced with anti-lock brakes and Ford's Advance Trac with electronic stability control. Ford has announced it will bring the European-spec Focus to the U.S. sometime during the 2010 model year, which will include a direct-injection powerplant and a 6-speed transmission.
Fuel economy; interior comfort; comfortable and quiet ride; SYNC hands-free entertainment system
The Ford Focus features good economy ratings, and when combined with its low base price, the Focus is one of the most frugal commuter vehicles available. Its 2008 redesign gave the Focus a real sense of refinement inside, and the ride is smooth and quiet. SYNC, still a Ford exclusive, allows hands-free control over phones and music devices--well worth the option cost.