2008 Ford Focus: Overview

Archived Review

2008 Ford Focus 

Available Styles ▼

  • MSRP: $14,395 -$16,925
  • Invoice: $13,569 -$15,727
CG Rating

56

out of 110

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Pros

  • Handling/roadholding
  • Front seat comfort

Cons

  • Gauges can be hard to read in certain lighting
  • Available sunroof cuts into head room

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Ford Focus is substantially updated, receiving fresh styling and new features. Focus comes as a 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Hatchback and wagon models are no longer available. S, SE, and topline SES trim levels are offered. The only engine is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or optional automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Newly available is Ford's Sync. Sync provides voice control of certain cell phone and MP3 player functions. Sync is standard on SES and available on SE models. Also available are leather upholstery and remote engine start.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.

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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category SES coupe, automatic Rating Compact Car Average Rating
Acceleration 4 4.8
Fuel Economy 8 6.6
Ride Quality 6 5.1
Steering/Handling/Braking 6 5.9
Quietness 4 4.5
Controls 6 5.7
Details 3 5.2
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) 6 5.7
Room/Comfort (rear) 2 4.1
Cargo Room 4 4.9
Value within Class 5 6.2
Total Score: 54 58.7

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