2005 Ford Focus: Improved With Age
By Matthew Keegan
In 2000, the year that the Focus was introduced, Ford Motor
Company had high hopes for the car that was created to replace
the popular, but aging Escort. Instead, numerous minor quality
problems plagued the vehicle and it soon became the butt of jokes
throughout the industry. Step forward to 2005, and the current
year model is a nice departure from earlier years. The 2005 Ford
Focus has improved as it has aged; let’s examine what is helping
the car to be a proven competitor in the crowded small vehicle
segment:
1. Competitive Price. Yes, the number of cars available under
$20,000 continues to drop each year. The Focus takes it one step
further as it retails just below $15,000 when rebates and
incentives kick in. Lesser quality Kias and Hyundais sell for
nearly the same amount, so the consumer has a good chance to
purchase something that will actually last in the Ford Focus.
2. A Variety of Body Styles. Most cars built today come in only
one or two body styles. The Focus features four: a three-door ZX3
hatchback, a five-door ZX5 hatchback, a ZX4 sedan and a ZXW
wagon.
3. Roomy Interior. Up to five people can be carried in the Focus
and the interior room is spacious for a car of its class. Most
small cars are unbearable for tall rear seating passengers, not
so for the Focus.
4. Adequate Power. The 2.0L I4 engine mated to a five speed
manual transmission gives the car enough “oomph” to get it moving
and keep moving at a nice clip on the highway.
5. Good Economy. With EPA figures of 26 city / 35 highway the
Focus achieves a fuel mileage that few small cars can boast
especially one capable of carrying five passengers.
Competition in the small car category remains tight with the
Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, Mazda 3, and Suzuki Forenza all
competitively priced. The Corolla remains the favorite of
industry experts, but the Focus has certainly lost its “problem
child” status with the latest model.
MSRP for the base model is $15,590 but incentives will bring the
price down by as much as $750. If you are financing your purchase
Ford Credit’s rates are very competitive; 0% financing is still
available for some buyers; restrictions apply so check with Ford
Credit to learn what you are eligible to receive.
In all, the Focus is a competitive entrant amongst small cars and
is certainly worth a closer look by the serious car buyer.
Matthew Keegan is The Article Writer who writes on just about any
and every issue imaginable. You can preview samples from his high
performing site at
http://www.thearticlewriter.com
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