If you think of the 2010 Ford Focus Sedan SE as what my mom used to call a little “putt around town” car, you’re really out of date.
Don’t feel badly though. I was surprised as anyone when I experienced the 2010. Let’s not say this second-generation model is a case of an ugly duckling turning into a swan, but rather something akin to the skinny kid turning into a slim/trim sports machine.
» Engine: 2-liter inline four-cylinder, 132 hp
» Transmission: five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic
» MSRP: $16,875
I’ll be honest — I’m a sucker for a pretty face. And the Ford Focus has that. The automaker has given this model sporty front and rear fascias. The look continues with a sport exhaust, steel wheels and plenty of aerodynamic curves.
The model I drove had some pretty cool extras, too, including heated side mirrors, modifiable interior lighting, and of course the technology (satellite radio, MP3 player, Bluetooth, Navigation) driven through Sync.
Not to wax too poetic but driving this car I found myself a bit in awe realizing that it is a lower-end model. With the extra that included plentiful head- and legroom, a leather steering wheel and all kinds of cup holders and compartments, this car looks and drives as if it has a much higher ticket price than just below $17,000 (just under $16,000 for the Sedan S model).
It’s contemporary interior includes all types of design tweaks including colored interior lighting and various aluminum trim extras.
Oh, you probably want to know about the drive, too. Well let’s just say that it, too, is impressive.
The car has plenty of power. All models have the same engine — a 2-liter inline four-cylinder engine that has 132 horsepower. Now before you balk, remember this is a lower-end car so that’s decent. It also comes in a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic. Plus, it’s rated at a high 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway.
As you’d expect, this model comes with all the safety bells and whistles you’d expect including six air bags and plenty of other safety features that have earned it four out of five stars in government crash test ratings.
The 2010 models have some extra items about which Ford understandably boasts.
Those include MyKey, where parents can set limits on driving speed and audio volume, remote keyless entry, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Those that are shopping for a solid performing sedan with modern sensibilities need look no farther.
