2002 Ford Focus: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford's popular subcompact adds a new body style, a sport-trim wagon, and a sporty SVT variant for 2002. Focus comes as a 4-dr sedan, 4-dr wagon, and a 2- and 4-dr hatchback; the 4-dr hatchback is new for '02. All have a 4-cyl engine. It has 110 or 130 hp, depending on model, with the new SVT rated at 170 hp. The SVT comes only as a 2-dr hatchback and includes a sport suspension and 17-inch wheels. And a new ZTW wagon has standard leather upholstery, fog lights, and 16-inch wheels. The base sedan, base 2-dr hatchback, and SVT come only with manual transmission; other models are available with manual or automatic. ABS is standard on the SVT, optional on other Focus models. Head-and-torso front side airbags are optional on all but the SVT. Newly optional on higher-line models is an antiskid system that includes ABS and traction control. A sunroof and 6-disc in-dash CD player are other new options.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is as good as ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. We also love almost everything about the Ford Focus, but were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less.

Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Toyota Echo, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege.