2008 Ford Focus SE Coupe Reviews

Performance: 140hp 4 cyl.5 speed manual transmission. Acceleration is decent but not anything really above average. Braking is good but the brake feel is not that great. You really have to press to brake hard. Handling is great especially with the Performance Package with the Pirelli Tires and the strut bar.

Build Quality: The car is fairly new. Seven months and 9.3k miles new new. It hasn't needed any repairs. There aren't any squeaks or rattles aside from if your clutch play is a little lazy, but that's normal in all cars with a manual tranny. However the interior is a little different. There are a couple pieces that are loose but nothing noticeable unless you're looking for it.

Appearance: My friend with a 08' Nissan Versa SL Hatchback wasn't fond of the makeover. He and I did like the old Focus and I was okay with the makeover. It's definitely unique and sometimes cool to drive and ugly car. But it's not ugly. It's a character you're just unsure of at first. But after a while, I love the aggresive front end, and the overall shape. My only complaint, if any, it's just vague on the sides. It interior is a handsome black cloth interior. the metal and black dash is pretty interesting. Feels more like a desk space but is organized well and designed pretty handsomely.

Cost of Ownership: It sips gas. Literally. Great MPGs for those trying to save the Earth. I was in traffic once and noticed that it still only drank gas from a coffee straw. The only reason that I fill up a lot is because I drive A LOT. That and the tank is only about 13 gallons (U.S.). I mean, your calculated range with the advertised 35mpg is 455 miles. I've never tried to test this but hey, that's hella good to me. As I said before, the car is fairly new so no maintenence info as of yet. I mean, I've had one oil change and that's it.

Fun Factor: Is it fun? well anything can be fun if your friends are in it. I mean it's no competition when you're racing your friend who's driving a 08' Nissan Versa SL Hatchback with the 6 speed. The turn-in is great as I said before, not too much body roll/lean. The exhaust note is pretty awesome and with the upgraded sounds to go with your SYNC (because you should have one), you can have a little bump to your zip.

Overall, if you're young and looking for something affordable, fuel efficient, good looking, and fun to drive, look no further than the Ford Focus, where MP3s meet MPGs.

just a note: there IS aftermarket support. so don't think you have to get a Civic. The Focus, is dollar for dollar better equipped and looks much better. You won't beat your friend with the Civic Si, or Sentra SE-R, but you won't be paying out the butt either. Perfect car for me. For now anyways ;) Experience may vary, I do have to 2 Door Coupe which is a first for the Focus family. The backseat is a little small if I'm honest, but not unliveable I am only 5'5".

Performance: Acceleration is average, braking is average although braking feel is a little soft, handling is responsive with quick steering.

Build Quality: It hasn't needed anything repaired yet. Pretty solid from when I bought it. No rattles or anything.

Apperance: Exterior apperance is definitely unique and is always a matter of opinion. I wasn't too fond of it at first glance but the look has grown on me. Interior is definitely an upgrade. It's clean and modern looking and the buttons and controls are well configured and placed.

Cost of Ownership: Gas is good with responsible driving. Unfortunately, I do a lot of driving so I don't notice the money I'm saving. But the car sips fuel and filling up is easy on the wallet. Maintenence is simple and cheaper than one might think. But really, it is a entry level vehicle, how expensive did you think it might be?

Fun Factor: Is it fun to drive? Yes. I have the 5 speed manual transmission and I will have to say that the car is geared pretty well and it's not bad when your foot gets a little heavy. I also have the car with the optional SYNC system which makes the car even more enjoyable. My calls are all hands free and the voice recognition is excellent. Definitely a great perk.

As I told my friend Tyler, Ford wasn't kidding with it's "MPGs meet MP3s" slogan. It's cheap, is reliable (so far) and fun. It's a welcome alternative to Sentra and Civic.