2010 Ford Focus Review

Overview

The Ford Focus brings a bold new look, a modern interior and a high level of driving enjoyment to the small car segment. It is a smart choice for those looking for a small and economical car which offers fun and efficiency. The 2010 Focus is a 2- or 4-door, 5-passenger compact family coupe, or family sedan, available in S Sedan, SE Sedan, SES Sedan, SEL Sedan and SE Coupe, SES Coupe, trims.

Power and performance

A standard 2.0-liter Duratec 20 dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) I-4 engine that delivers 140 horsepower in most applications, and 143-hp when combined with a sport-tuned exhaust and five-speed manual transmission in the coupe body styles drives the 2010 Ford Focus. A super-clean, 136-hp Duratec 20E engine that qualifies Focus as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) in California emissions states is also available. The 20E's tailpipe emissions are cleaner than some hybrid gas-electric vehicles'. The Duratec 20 and 20E in Focus Coupe are mated to a five-speed manual transmission and achieve EPA-estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg highway. The Ford Focus offers 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

Body and styling

Mainly a carryover model from 2009 with a few changes, the Ford Focus includes MyKey programmable vehicle key, standard remote keyless entry with power locks, 4-wheel ABS, AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), SYNC with traffic, directions and information and a new SE Sedan Appearance Package with 15-inch alloy wheels with unique machined-face finish, decklid spoiler and fog lamps for 2010. The sporty Ford Focus models get even more refinements and styling upgrades for 2010. SE models now can be equipped with a power moonroof and premium audio system. The distinctive SES models now come with standard 17-inch premium painted wheels and performance-tuned suspension. The SES sedans now feature the euro-look fascia from the coupe, and new dark chrome on the grille, headlamp and tail lamp trim. Three new paint colors - Natural Netural, Blue Flame, and Ingot Silver - have been added to the 2010 palette. The standard and available 2010 Ford Focus technology features include SIRIUS Satellite Radio with pre-paid initial six-month subscription, AM/FM/CD/MP3 capable audio system with input jack and speed-sensitive volume control and a premium audio system with 190 watts, eight speakers and separate 8-inch subwoofer. A driver's message center that displays key vehicle information to the driver, including instantaneous fuel efficiency, has also been added as standard equipment. Ford's industry-exclusive Ford SYNC, a fully integrated in-vehicle, voice-activated communications and entertainment system allowing customers to use their Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and digital media players, is standard on the SES, SEL and optional on SE. SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information which provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports, and weather is new for this year.

Safety Features

Ford has given paramount importance to safety. All 2010 Ford Focus models now feature four-wheel ABS brakes standard, and working in conjunction with the ABS system, standard AdvanceTrac with ESC uses sophisticated sensors to help keep the car under control. A perimeter alarm system to discourage vehicle theft and tampering is also standard on Focus SE, SES and SEL trims. Further, all Focus models now feature the MyKey system to help encourage safer teen driving. Parents can simply program the vehicle key through the message center to incorporate features such as limited vehicle top speed of 80 mph, traction control system that limits tire spin cannot be deactivated, audio system volume limited to 44 percent of maximum volume and a speed alert chime at 45, 55 or 65 mph. The standard and available 2010 Ford Focus safety features include dual-stage front air bags, frontal side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags for both rows of seating, Occupant sensing system, Belt Minder for driver and front passenger, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system on rear seating positions SecuriLock passive anti-theft system (PATS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).