We were going to write about the Ford Expedition, but decided against it. Who in their right mind would consider a vehicle that needs its own zip code with our current gasoline prices?
Instead, we’re going the other way and talk about Ford’s smallest and most efficient vehicle, the Focus.
The Focus received a semi-major renovation for 2008 with a new exterior and upgraded interior features. Now, only available in a coupe or sedan model, the hatchback and wagon are history, the Focus is aimed squarely at Ford’s target buyers.
With an average of 32 miles per gallon, excellent for commuting or a small family, the Focus is definitely focused on today’s needs.
While the Focus still trails the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla in sales, it’s a very viable option with a price tag around $16,000, depending on the features.
The exterior is much cleaner with a forward-looking stance. On the upgraded models, chrome splashes adorn the flanks right behind the front wheels. The grill is flat and clean without a lot of glitter.
Inside, the seats are comfortable, even on extended drives. The gauge panel has a new look with chrome accents and blue lighting.
One of the coolest things about the Focus is the optional Sync system that was created by Ford and Microsoft. Your Bluetooth phone connects easily for hands-free use. Your iPod or MP3 also works with the system. And, there are two 12-volt plugs to power any peripherals.
There are three trim levels to select from and the list of standard features allows you to pick and choose just what you need. The mid-level SE has full power accessories, AC, tilt steering wheel and cruise control. But you can add satellite radio, the Sync system, upgraded audio system with six-disc CD changer and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SES offers all those features, plus it has 16-inch wheels, rather than 15, and you can add leather seating, heated up front and a sunroof. Antilock brakes are optional on all levels.
Under the hood, there’s only one choice – a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder with a 140 horsepower. A five-speed manual is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional.
Our test model came with the five-speed manual. The first two gears are strong but the middle two don’t add much oomph to the acceleration. Fifth gear is for cruising and economy.
The Focus is highly rated in the safety department with six standard air bags. However, the rear seats do not have head restraints, a curious omission.
Our Focus handled extremely well with a smooth, quiet ride and very minimal wind noise. When you have the right gear, the car will pull through turns with aplomb, but will tend to bog down a bit if you don’t shift in time.
As an affordable, economy car, the Focus is right on target. Besides, with the price, you could get two for the price of one Expedition. And, get four times the fuel mileage.

Ryan’s Ride – Until hybrid or hydrogen power becomes mainstream, more and more Americans are going to be looking for smaller, more economical vehicles. The Ford Focus fits that model perfectly.
The new styling will certainly help. The demise of a hatchback or wagon may be a put off for some, but the two- and four-door models are very nice looking in the driveway. The small chrome accents on the front panels add an upscale look as well.
I found the Focus a lot of fun to drive. It’s no sports car, but it did zip around the back roads and handled extremely well for a small car.
During the week, I did a lot of freeway driving and some backroad tours. According to the digital readout on the dash, I was averaging 32 miles per gallon. That’s not bad when the federal numbers are 24 and 35.
I don’t have an iPod or Bluetooth cell phone, so I can’t talk about the Sync system. However, I have talked to several owners who have used it and they say it’s extremely user friendly.
For the price, the Focus offers a lot of value, even in the top of the line model.

Marilyn’s Moment – I’m glad we decided against writing about the Expedition. I would have little positive to say about the big monster.
However, the Focus was pure fun. The five-speed transmission shifted smoothly and I had more than enough power for my driving needs.
We had the four-door sedan, which made it much easier to load things into the back seat.
The seats were very comfortable, once I had them adjusted for me.
The dash gauges are very attractive, especially at night with the blue lighting. The console audio and climate controls also are user friendly. Our test model also had audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel.
It’s a small thing, but important to some. The small storage bin in front of the shifter had a non-skid surface. That kept things, like my cell phone, from sliding around while driving. All cars should have that.
A car costing less than $17,000 with 32 miles per gallon fuel mileage and plenty of room and spunk, I’d say that’s a pretty good bargain.