2010 Ford Focus Review

New on the 2010 Focus are newly standard antilock brakes and an electronic stability system on all Focus models, as is keyless entry and power locks. The Focus features Ford's now-signature bar-style grille that's also on the front of the Fusion and Edge. The SES coupe differs from other models as the sportier choice of the lineup and includes larger 17-inch wheels, unique front styling, a darkened chrome grille, a rear spoiler, and headlight and taillight trims. Five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions are available. The coupe has a sporty free-flow exhaust tone, 3 more horsepower with the manual transmission, and an automatic transmission that's tuned to deliver quicker off-the-line acceleration. Ford's Focus compact car was restyled in 2008, gaining a new look inside and out. The vehicle is sold either as a sedan or coupe. The sedan is available in base S, SE, SES and SEL trims. The Focus coupe is available in SE and SES trims.

Cabin of the Focus

The sedan and coupe offer loads of cabin space, at least for this class.  Cargo space in the trunk is 13.8 cubic feet, which is larger than the Civic and about even with the Cobalt and Corolla. All models get a 60/40-split folding rear bench. Standard interior features on all Focus sedan models include four-way manual driver- and two-way manual passenger-adjustable front seats, 60/40 split-fold rear seat backs, Driver-seat comfort is commendable in the Focus, and controls are intuitive and easy to reach. Head- and legroom are ample as are door openings with easy entry and exit. While the center console is roomy, the glovebox is a little on the small side.

2010 Lineup

The Focus is available in the base S model, SE, SES, and top class SEL.  The coupe is available in the SE and SES trim levels. They are largely similar to their sedan counterparts, though you'll find a sport exhaust and 17-inch wheels on the SES coupe. The base S model comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a tilting steering wheel and a four-speaker audio system with a single-CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary audio jack. Cruise control and satellite radio are on the options list.

The SE adds full power accessories and Sirius Satellite Radio, and options like Sync, an upgraded stereo with a six-CD changer, heated side mirrors, chrome exterior trim, faux-aluminum interior trim, an upgraded driver seat, customizable interior lighting and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The SES trim will offers 16-inch alloy wheels and upgraded tires, foglamps and a rear spoiler, along with firmer suspension tuning for better handling. This well-equipped Focus SES also comes standard with much of the SE's optional equipment, including Sync and cruise control.

Top-of-the-line SEL models have all SES features, plus chrome exterior trim and heated leather seats.It includes heated chrome mirrors and door handles, heated, leather-trimmed front seats, plus SYNC. 2010 Focus sedan SEL models also get 16-inch alloy wheels.

2010 Focus Power and Handling

All 2010 Ford Focus models are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC I-4 engine. An available option in California and in other designated same-emissions states, this engine is certified as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV). It produces low emissions and 132 hp. When mated to the optional four-speed automatic, Focus Sedans get 24/33 mpg, city/highway fuel economy ratings. When matched with the standard five-speed manual, that mileage increases to 35 mpg.  The Focus SES sedan gives a good amount of road feel through the steering wheel.  There is little lean in turns.  All models except the base S now benefit from a rear stabilizer bar for sharper handling.  Good road feel means the ride quality is a bit harder than some might prefer. Still, the Focus is not at all harsh over bumps. Antilock brakes do not come standard, but it is strongly recommended to opt for them, especially with electronic stability control added to the package. The 2.0-liter is competitive with most engines in this class. It has decent power for most needs, but passing maneuvers will require plenty of space. The automatic transmission downshifts quickly to give you what power the engine has. The coupe SES automatics come with a 4.2:1 final drive ratio (instead of the standard 3.3:1) for quicker off-the-line acceleration.

2010 Focus Exterior

The Focus features Ford's now-signature bar-style grille that's also on the front of the Fusion and the Edge. The coupe gets a slightly revised front and rear that loses the Focus' front fender vents and gains restyled fog lamps. The SES coupe features a rear, high-mounted spoiler. The Focus sedan is 175 inches long and 66.7 inches wide, while the coupe is slightly wider. The Cobalt, Civic and Corolla are larger than the Focus. For 2010, the coupe gets its own face, with a darker chrome grille and a single, large opening beneath the bumper that narrows slightly toward the top. Fog lights are tunneled directly into the fascia on either side; above them, the fascia is cut away, almost like a step. It's all a bit more interesting to look at but doesn't reduce the bumper's visual mass.

Conclusions

The Ford Focus has been on the American automotive scene for nearly a decade. The Focus' biggest benefits are its fuel economy, which is better than average, and the Sync interface, which allows voice control of MP3 players and cell phones. The Focus is also priced competitively.  The downsides to it are simply the class it belongs to, the economy class.  Although the Focus is capable and sufficient enough, those looking for engaging handling and a premium ownership experience will want to look elsewhere. The base S model starts at $14,995, Focus SE sedans start at $16,180, SES pricing starts at $17,570. The new top-of-the-line SEL model starts at $17,970. One of the reasons for the long-standing success of the Ford Focus is its reputation of value, fuel economy and fun-to-drive factors. J.D. Power and Associates recently called the Focus the most improved model in the industry, thanks to an 88 index-point increase seen in their 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study. APEAL assesses owner satisfaction with style, content, layout and performance after three months of driving.  For more research, read a 2010 Focus RS First Drive by Motor Trend. Competitors include the Chevrolet Cobalt, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.