Ford attributes this in part to a standard torque-vectoring feature that uses the traction control to brake the inside wheel when accelerating out of a turn, allowing the power to drive the outside wheel and maintain a tighter line. It, too, exhibited surprising control and athleticism, eager to dive into corners and then claw its way back out. (At an estimated replacement cost of $250 apiece, I’d expect nothing less.)īut I don’t want to downplay the capabilities of the lower trim levels, such as the Focus SE hatchback with 16-inch all-season tires. Naturally, the Titanium sedan with the 18-inch wheels and sport suspension was the more capable its Michelin Pilot Sport 3 summer performance tires (rated P235/40ZR18) gave up traction reluctantly, to say the least, with the faintest of chirps. The car flew under the radar because it was so poised and natural in the twisties that you didn’t realize how good it was unless you looked at the speedometer. I can’t say I’m surprised, because the previous-generation Ford Focus’ dynamics were underrated - or perhaps just underreported. It was on canyon roads that the Focus showed its finest attribute: handling. Overall, the Focus is admirably quiet in all regards. Equipped with optional summer tires, the Focus Titanium sedan with 18-inch wheels crossed highway expansion joints with a faint thrumming sound that recalled earlier, lighter Audis - a sensation I always associated with an exceptionally stiff body structure. (As we publish this review, both Ford’s website and our own data show an optional suspension for the SE trim level this is incorrect and will be revised.) Even the sportier suspension was agreeable on the mostly healthy road surfaces in and around Los Angeles. The largest wheels, 18-inchers that are optional on the Titanium trim, come with a firmer, sportier suspension. A more compliant but still lively setup accompanies all wheel sizes from 15 to 17 inches.
The Focus offers two suspension tunings, tied to wheel size. A high-performance Focus ST will join the family, but not until next year. For a trim-level comparison, check out the sedan and hatchback. The sedan comes in an entry-level S trim level, and both the sedan and hatch come in SE, SEL and Titanium trims. The 2012 Ford Focus is stylish in both sedan and four-door-hatchback body styles. Now, we’re finally getting the quality formerly enjoyed only overseas, and you can see, feel and hear it in the 2012 Focus. In Europe, compact cars are a staple, and buyers shell out thousands of dollars (or dollar equivalents) more for them than we do. The Focus name isn’t new to the U.S., but the 2012 model is the first Focus to be shared among the U.S., Europe and the rest of the world. With better styling than the Chevrolet Cruze and better handling than the Hyundai Elantra, the 2012 Ford Focus is the most complete package in the compact-car market.
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