The jaunty little Ford Focus has caused quite a stir in the industry. Both
in terms of sales, performance, quality, and value, it is perhaps the first
domestic entry-level car that can compete in this segment head-to-head with
the Japanese competitors. For 2002, Ford has launched the Focus SVT, 
which has unlocked the performance of the spunky compact.

The initials SVT have a special meaning within the Ford organization. The
initials stand for Special Vehicle Engineering Team. This is a small
engineering organization that preps special high-performance automobiles
destined for the consumer market. Right now, the group also preps a special
edition of the Mustang and the F150 pickup truck.

The Focus has entered a highly competitive market, the affordable compact
performance segment, which has become red hot lately with new entries from
Honda, Acura, Nissan and Subaru. But based on our analysis, it looks as if
the Focus carries a big stick.

Engine and transmission: In the development of the Focus, the SVT group
turned to Ford¹s longtime partner, Cosworth Technology, well known for its
racing engines. The result is a new four-cylinder unit based on the Focus
engine that develops extraordinary power, and yet is very docile under
normal driving conditions. The engine is smooth and responsive at all
speeds, and is even tractable lugging through traffic jams. The only
downside is mediocre fuel economy. I expected a little better highway
mileage than 25 miles per gallon given the size of the car. To beef up its
sporting role, the Focus SVT is equipped with a six-speed manual
transmission.  While a great idea, the transmission seemed a big vague in
operation and I found it necessary to use a lot of muscle power to engage
the sixth gear.

Ride and handling:  The Focus SVT is the recipient of a revised suspension
and upgraded wheels and tires; the result is tight, responsive handling. The
steering is deadly accurate and the car handles a series of quick curves
with complete competence.  I kept asking myself, is this really an
economy-priced Ford product I¹m driving. And I was also impressed with the
fact that so-called torque steering, or the tendency of the car to pull to
one side during acceleration, was all but imperceptible. The ride quality is
stiff, but not to the point of discomfort, at least by sporty import standards. 

Design: Even though the Ford Focus has been around for a few years, I still
find the styling quite innovative‹not visually pleasing like looking at a
new Ferrari‹but still very unique. Instead of being low and wide, the Focus
is unabashedly tall. It was so tall in fact that it created the illusion
that it was also narrower than competitive models. The design of the rear
end is also unusual with the taillights being lifted up onto the roof
pillars, where they are highly visible.

The advantage of the Focus¹ height is lots of headroom. The Focus seems to
exceed the amount of headroom that most people need. On the other hand, the
extra space may alleviate the sense of claustrophobia I sometimes experience
in small cars. Once inside the Focus, one gets the illusion of a larger car.
In the area of interior design, particularly related to gauges and controls,
economy cars often have an ergonomic advantage when compared to the more
expensive luxury models. Because economy cars offer somewhat limited
functionality, the design of such components as the center control console
can be simple, uncluttered and straightforward. The Focus is a good example.
The audio and heater/air-condition system don¹t cover a lot of space and are
simply displayed with functions clearly marked. Sometimes less is more. The
special sports seats are a combination of leather and fabric that is very
attractive.

Value: As a screaming performance car, there is no doubt that the Focus¹s
list price of $17,480 is a bargain. Our test vehicle also included the
high-end audio system at $675. Standard equipment includes all of the usual
power equipment as will as a rear window washer and wiper. The Focus
delivers huge performance for the price and fulfills a lot of practical
requirements with its hatchback design.
 

Vehicle: Ford Focus SVT
Price as tested: $18,670
Engine:
    Type: 2.0-liter, inline 4 cylinder
    Horsepower: 170 @ 7,000 rpm
    Torque: 145 ft. lbs. @ 5,500 rpm
Fuel economy, manual transmission
    City - 21 mpg
    Highway - 25 mpg
Curb Weight: 2,750 lbs.