2012 Ford Focus Titanium Hatchback: The Automaker's Game Changing Compact

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $24,485 (Base price of Focus starts at $16,995)

Major Standard Features on Base Focus: 15-inch wheels; AM/FM single-CD/MP3 with 4 speakers; tilt steering; power windows; manual transmission; side curtain airbags; keyless entry remote; air condition

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter/160hp

Standard Fuel Mileage: 28-city/38-hwy

Competition: Chevy Cruze; Honda Civic; Hyundai Elantra; Toyota Corolla; Nissan Sentra; VW Jetta; upcoming Kia Rio

What’s New: The 2012 redesigned European influenced compact has been reworked from the inside out for the 2011 model year, growing in size, price and features. For the 2011 model year, a coupe is no longer apart of the line up.

Pros: Ford has transformed the boxy looking Focus from being a mediocre compact to an aerodynamic vehicle that’s now capable of competing beyond the confines of Detroit. The previous-generation was a step in the right direction, but Ford has gotten it right this time, hitting the sweet spot in the compact segment. Even the folks from Honda are taking notice as they launch a reworked Honda Civic.

For the 2012 model-year, the Focus is available in several trim models as either a sedan or sporty looking hatchback. I was fortunate enough to review the top of the line Titanium model, which was equipped with Ford’s Premium Package. This package included leather-trimmed seats, a 6-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar, an audible reverse sensing system, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a rear seat center armrest with storage.

Furthermore, the redesigned roomy, great handling compact I reviewed was outfitted with 17-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, a push-button keyless ignition starter, Ford’s Sync Voice Activated System, Ford’s all-new touch screen audio and ventilation system, Sony’s 10-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, HD radio and a satellite system.

Cons: Like a number of compacts, the Focus can become quite pricey, when fully-equipped. While our Focus didn’t come equipped with a power roof, a navigation system, heated front seats, a back-up camera and an electronic parking assist system, a first for a compact, the vehicle I reviewed barely managed to come in just a few dollars shy of $25,000. At this price point, the 2012 Focus bumps up against vehicles outside of its segment like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry which starts out in the low $20k range.

Also I’m still getting adjusted to Ford’s new MyFord Touch, which is a touch-screen application that replaces the knobs and buttons typically used to change the radio or to adjust the interior temperature. I still prefer using a knob to change stations. However, for those who are apart of the Smartphone generation, they’ll love this feature.

The Verdict: Ford has done a remarkable job reworking the 2012 Focus. It’s no wonder that this platform will be shared around the world. Not only does the fuel-efficient Focus offer a great ride, improved styling, great craftsmanship and many high-tech amenities, it comes at a steep price too --depending on how the vehicle is equipped. Pricing for a base Focus starts out in the $16,000 range and can easily climb near $30,000. Let’s hope Ford knows what they’re doing by loading on features that could pit the European compact against near-luxury vehicle pricing.