First Drive: 2012 Ford Focus Titanium 5-door
05/25/2011
Shahed Hussain
Ford introduced the new Focus to the US market just in time for the increased gas prices that have been driving customers to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. Taking on the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Chevrolet Cruze, Ford positioned the Focus models to cover a range from $16,500 (S Sedan) to $22,700 (Titanium 5-Door).
We drove the top-level Focus Titanium 5-Door, equipped with optional leather seats, voice-activated navigation system, and 6-speed PowerShift(TM) automatic gearbox. Ford offers a wide array of interior trim option packages and accessories to personalize each Focus. Among those of interest to enthusiasts is the Titanium Handling Package, which adds 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, summer performance tires, and a full-size spare tire.
Befitting Ford's premium pricing, interior design and build quality are superb. The Focus compares favorably to the VW Golf, widely regarded as the benchmark among compact cars. Brightly backlit gauges nestled in individual pods are sharp and readily legible in full daylight. Supportive front seats with 6-way power settings and manual lumbar adjustment are included with the Titanium Premium Package. Focus SEL and Titanium models get the MyFord Touch interface for the climate control and audio system. Simple adjustments for temperature, fan speed, or to select radio stations required cycling through multiple menus on the touchscreen interface. The MyFord Touch system is optional on other Focus models.
Driving the new Focus confirms that Ford expended serious development resources to refine ride and handling characteristics. Suspension tuning is compliant but snubbed down, yet the Focus handles road imperfections without losing composure. A typical MacPherson strut front suspension is complemented by a multi-link Control Blade short/long arm (SLA) rear setup. Stabilizer bars at both ends minimize body roll. The Focus adopts electrically-assisted steering for improved efficiency. Base models are equipped with front discs and rear drums, but an all-disc brake layout is standard on the Titanium, SEL, and the SE Sport Package trim levels. ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is standard on all Focus models.
The new 2.0L inline-4 provides ample acceleration through the optional 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (a 5-speed manual is standard). Direct-injection and variable valve-timing yields 160-bhp @ 6,500 RPM and 146 lb.-ft. @ 4,450 RPM. Engine noise and vibration are commendably isolated from the passenger compartment, with none of the buzz and boom typical in compact sedans. Fuel consumption for the Focus SEL is rated at 27/37 MPG (city/hwy.). The Focus SE with the SFE Package ekes out an impressive 28/40 MPG (city/hwy.) rating from the EPA.
Among premium compact sedans, the Focus matches the technology and sophistication of any of its competitors. Some customers may consider the comparably priced Fusion SE, although the Focus leads with superior fuel economy, and offers the versatility of a hatchback. Against the Corolla, Civic, and Cruze, the Focus indisputably demonstrates Ford's progress into the top tier of this hotly contested segment.