Ford Focus

Impressions: With most manufacturers injecting the small-car market with new vehicles or heavily updated versions of current models, it's surprising to see Ford stick with a basically unchanged Focus that's now entering its eighth year of service. We hear that something is brewing for 2008, but for now the Focus continues to be available as a three-door ZX3 hatchback, five-door ZX5 hatchback, ZX4 sedan and ZXW wagon in S, SE, and SES trims levels. Sedan models are also available in performance-oriented ST livery. The base engine displaces 2.0 liters and produces 136 horsepower, while the ZX4 ST comes with a larger 151-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder (surprisingly, the only Focus that gets it) coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. Both engines come from Mazda, of which Ford owns a big chunk. A partial zero-emissions version (PZEV) of the 2.0 is available in California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine and comes with your choice of a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. While the Focus is relatively sporty looking, you can opt for a Street Appearance package (except wagon models) that provides a more aggressive, customized look with unique front and rear fascias. New two-tone leather "sport" seats are part of an interior upgrade package for all but the base S model. Base price: $14,000 (including destination) Type: Three-door hatchback; five-door hatchback; four-door sedan; four-door wagon Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4 (136) Optional engine (hp): 2.3-liter DOHC I4 (151, ST) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive Transmissions: Five-speed manual (std. on ST); four-speed automatic (opt.) Mileage (city/hwy): 26/32 (2.0 AT, sedan) Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); anti-lock brakes (opt.); stability control (opt.) Weight (lb.): 2,620 Basic warranty: 3/36,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: ford.com