The 2009 Ford Focus packs a lot of fun and agile handling into an essentially economy compact. Since last year's refresh, sales have skyrocketed 88% due to its affordability, interior space, and agile ride. A big complaint, its bland exterior looks, especially compared to the revamped Honda Civic, have been partially addressed for 2009. The coupe gets a sporty facelift, while the sedan waits in the wings.

Available in both sedan and coupe forms, the front-wheel-drive 2009 Ford Focus comes in three trim levels: Base S, SE, and sporty SES. For 2009 the coupe drops the S trim. One engine powers the entire lineup. The 2.0-liter DOHC inline four puts out 140 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque with the standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. The coupe's new sport-tuned exhaust adds 3 horsepower, for a total of 143 hp, but maintains the sedan's 24/35 mpg rating. A partial-emissions version of the 2.0 rates 130 hp. Engine noise at high speeds is noticeable, a common trait among four-cylinders.

The 2009 Focus coupe's redesign, partially inspired by customer feedback, concentrates on exterior updates. A new front fascia incorporates a larger, lower air intake, rounder bumper, integrated foglights (now standard on all trims), and darkened bronzed chrome, for a subtler, more elegant look. The top-of-the-line SES rides on larger 17-inch alloy wheels and adds a new roof spoiler. Also new for the 2009 Focus coupe is optional electronic stability control, for extra traction security. On all other trims, dual front-side and side curtain airbags are standard, with the option to add ABS brakes and traction control.

A roomy and comfortable front row, in addition to a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk, continues to earn high marks for the compact Focus. Rear seats split-fold 60/40 for extra cargo space, and front legroom reaches nearly 42 inches, while rear legroom is a spacious 36 inches. Despite the use of cheap plastic materials, the interior feels comfortable and well laid out. The Base S comes with few accessories beyond the CD/MP3 player, but the SE adds power features, remote entry, and a trip computer. The sportier SES features a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and the SYNC entertainment and communication interface. An interesting option is Ambient Lighting, which offers seven lighting choices for gauges and footwells.

Potentially due out in 2009, but only in Europe, the Ford Focus RS uses a five-cylinder, 2.0-liter engine to hit 296 hp, with 0-60 times under 6 seconds. The engine comes paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The performance-oriented RS concept, based on the defunct ST, is set to debut at the London Auto Show in mid-2008, but early pictures show off its extensive chrome trim, wide stance, engorged wheel wells, distinctive grille, and Recaro sport seats. Its future in the U.S. remains uncertain and, as of now, unlikely.