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Ford Focus 2010: Final Bow
By Matthew C. Keegan
The 2010 Ford Focus you see patrolling America's streets now is nearing the end of its lifespan. Ford will likely carry the model for one more year before ditching it in favor of the European designed Focus. Ford is planning to bring as many as six of its European designed cars stateside, with the subcompact Fiesta rolling out Summer 2010 followed by the next generation Focus.
Aged Model Survives
We've been seeing essentially the same Focus since the 2000 model year, with occasional tweaks and other small changes accomplished every few years. Currently available as a two door coupe or four door sedan, the Focus has sold surprisingly well over the past few years despite its aged look and stiff competition.
During the worst of the gas crisis of 2008, when pump prices surged above four dollars a gallon, the Focus was a hot seller. Ford also made its then new voice activated SYNC hands free entertainment and communications system with the Focus, a $395 option that helped sell the car. Besides, the Focus was also cheap, offered very good fuel mileage, and had low insurance costs. If you didn't car how your car looked, then Ford Focus 2010 or other model year was the way to go.
Potent, Economical Engine
Ford Focus 2010 is powered by a 2.0L Duratec I4. Featuring cast aluminum heads, variable valve timing, and sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection, that engine is paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The Focus gets 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway (34 mpg with the automatic).
Besides offering SYNC, Ford Focus 2010 comes equipped with a premium audio sound system featuring an MP3-capable single-disc CD player, speed-sensitive audio, four speakers and audio input jack, across the model line. Not many entry level models offer such a high quality sound system, but Ford does.
Safety is an important feature for Ford Focus 2010 as the car offers dual-stage driver and front seat passenger airbags. What is more, every Focus comes with standard front seat-mounted side airbags as well as front and rear seat side curtain airbags. A nice complement of safety features which increases the car's appeal.
Equipped, Not Stripped
Nicely loaded, a Ford Focus 2010 model can be had for under $18,000 and includes all of the amenities most drivers want including automatic transmission; air-conditioning; power windows, doors, and locks; and a generous trunk.
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