2008 Ford Focus S Coupe Trim Overview

A new trim for 2008, the Ford Focus S coupe takes advantage of the overall Focus redesign to display its new muscular lines, flared wheel arches, and aggressive stance. It also sports a number of features that are new to the Focus lineup for 2008, including Ice Blue backlighting for the instrument gauges and control knobs, a top-of-the-dash display with multifunction readouts, an MP3 input jack for the AM/FM/CD audio system, side curtain airbags, and optional Sirius satellite radio.

The Focus S Coupe also comes with a tire pressure monitoring system, air conditioning, halogen headlights, a passive antitheft system, and a tilt steering wheel. Power rack-and-pinion steering and an upgraded suspension with MacPherson struts in the front are also part of the package. Options include the Sync, Ford's new wireless in-car, Bluetooth-compatible communications system that enables drivers to make voice-activated cellphone calls, among other functions.

A 140-horsepower, 2.0-liter Duratec 20 inline four-cylinder engine powers the Focus S Coupe. The engine has been updated to provide improved smoothness, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. The engine links to either a five-speed manual transmission, which comes standard, or a four-speed automatic, available as an option.

When designing the Focus S Coupe, Ford's engineers sought to create a light, quick compact car with good interior comfort, aggressive driving dynamics, and a quiet, smooth ride, and most drivers and reviewers note that Ford has succeeded in doing just that. Some note that the automatic transmission can make harsh shifts under aggressive driving, and others note that the backseat can be cramped. But most agree that the Focus, with its new exterior design updates, improved interior, and new standard features, offers a good value for budget-minded drivers.