Where do I start? This car blends everything so well.
So I'll break it down.

Performance- Its not the fastest thing in a straight line by any means, but it will out run most every naturally aspirated 4-cylinder (save for the new Civic Si and RSX Type-S). But this car wasn't built to go fast in a straight line. The SVT Focus handles like nothing else I've ever driven. Even though it is a front-wheel-drive car, oversteer can be induced, and has more grip than the motor can really take advantage of.

Build Quality- My SVT as the European Appearance Package, which means heated leather Recaros for the front passengers, and incredibly comfortable leather seats for the rear passengers. However, some of the build materials show that this is still and economy based car, as there are several hard-plastic areas and the fit and finish is slightly below par. There are few squeaks (primarily where the front seats contact the center console), but nothing you will hear if you've got the radio even slightly turned on.

Appearance- I've received nothing but complements on the appearance of the car. Love it or hate it, the SVT Focus has some aggressive styling, though it can look odd from some angles, and the interior is well-designed despite some poor material choice.

Cost of Ownership- Bought it with 65k on the odometer, and have put 6k on it. Thus far, I've had to make no repairs, though the passenger front strut is on its last leg (a side-effect of hard driving). Despite only taking premium fuel, the SVT is hardly hard on the wallet at the pump. I've gotten as high as 32mpg, and regularly see 300 miles to a tank of gas-- which is quite a bit for a 12 gallon tank.

Fun Factor- I'll put it this way, I've NEVER driven anything as entertaining to drive. The steering is communicative, the brake are easily to modulate, and the suspension and chassis tuning just beg to be tossed around in a canyon. And for the 4-banger, this car has a fantastic exhaust note once you cross 3000 rpm. Not only is it a blast to drive hard, but the suspension is comfortable for every day driving.

Give this car a test drive if you're in the market for a sporty compact. You'll likely be pleasantly surprised.

Basically the Australian version of the Focus SVT but ours instead comes
from the UK rather than America....

Brilliant in every way, love my Focus ST170 to bits....
Turbo to come :)

This is my CD Silver SVT Focus 4-door.  It is build number 889 out of a total production of 1079.  It's relatively stock as far as drivetrain and suspension goes.

Great little car which will potter about or quite happily use the VVT to the best of its ability

This car was something i have had my eye on for a while.  Allbeit the appearance is something out of a cracker jack box, it will still hold its own against anything in its class. IE: civic si, mini, eclipse, protegespeed, srt-4.  The handling is something out of a dream, and the acceleration isn't bad either.  I have had this car since last December I can say that it is a great car.