Ford Focus is one of those types of car that you really don’t have to wonder about and wouldn’t really expect much from. Just facing it, there isn’t much if anything exciting about it once you go beyond it being first to brandish Microsoft’s Sync technology.

Well, if that’s how you feel, allow us to reintroduce the car you thought you knew. You won’t believe how much came packed in this pint-sized econo car. Sure, Focus Coupe has been celebrated for its outstanding fuel economy and all, but beyond such it gains attention for its European-inspired suspension, solid driving capability and technical enhancements.

We’re talking 24/35 city/highway mpg from a five-speed manual transmission that’s as fun to drive as any in-hand shifter in its class. It’s fitted with a re-spoiler to compliment sexy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension (Focus Coupe) to deliver attitude.

A 2.0L Duratec 20 I-4 is engineered with dual overhead cams activating four valves per cylinder. For 2008, this power plant features a new air intake system, cooling and exhaust systems designed to improve smoothness, responsiveness and efficiency. There's also the Duratec 20E offered in states that adopt California emissions standards, qualifying Focus as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV).

It begins with the redesigned interior of the new 2008 Focus, which will give every techie goose bumps. Ambient lighting, ergonomic steering wheel-mounted controls and the available voice-activated Sync media center bring added value to this hot little number. Just with the sound of your voice, you can make calls on your Bluetooth cell phone or activate your mp3 player. There are also 130 channels on the available Sirius Satellite radio to flick through. The stereo system delivers adequate sound when the EQ is leveled correctly. And it’s all riding on 16" Euroflanged alloy wheels!

Focus has three trim levels (S, SE, and SES) available in either coupe or sedan all of which should bring some youth to the brand- something it’s been lacking for a while.

Focus SE has an available Deluxe Package offering bright exterior accent including mirror-head domes, door handles and exhaust tips; fog lamps with bright accents inside as well. There’s even a sexy metallic instrument panel appliqué, chrome register accents and chrome rings around the performance instrument cluster.

Key vehicle dimensions like its stiffer body structure lets retuned suspension components deliver pinpoint steering and handling. It’s a uniqueness that at the same time provides superior ride quality. As a result, the combo of taut body structure, retuned suspension and short-throw Trans result in dampened friction, less jarring and a steadier ride.

Focus has hopefully stepped up to gain clarity and establish a pathway in an otherwise cluttered segment.

In Short:
Coolest Feature:
Microsoft Sync voice activated media center
Could Use:
Real Time Navigation (updates on construction/traffic etc)
Sticker:
Starts at $14,395 ($16,570 as tested)
Engine:
2.0L Duratec 20 I-4