2006 Ford Focus

Designed in Europe and introduced into the United States in 2000, the Ford Focus wasted no time in outselling all other models in the Ford lineup, proving there was an American market for a crisp-handling value-driven sedan with upright styling and an ergonomically well-designed interior.

The 2006 models offer four distinct body styles; the ZX3 3-door hatchback, the ZX5 5-door hatchback, the ZX4 sedan and the ZXW wagon. Buyers can also choose from three trim packages: basic S, midrange SE and premium SES.

Drivers lo; king for a sporty feel will want to check out the ZX3, whose manual shift and quick pickup make for an engaging driving experience. In general, all Focus hatchback models are highly responsive and maneuverable. Clutch action is smooth and easy, and overall ride comfort is better than average, if on the stiff side.

The ZX4 sedan also offers the ST model, with a performance-tuned suspension system brought over from the SVT Focus model. The ST's 151-HP, (154 pounds-feet of torque ) 2.3-liter 4-cylinder exceeds the emissions standards for Ultra Low Emissions Vehicles. The ST offers only a manual shift version.

Standard Focus models use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that gives 136 hp and offer a choice of four-speed automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. In states where strict emissions requirements are enforced, a 130-hp version comes standard.

The Focus hatchbacks come in smaller than the comparable Honda Civic sedan and the Toyota Corolla; 168.5 inches from front to back. The Focus sedan models top out at 175.2 inches.

The upright orientation of the Focus cab allows for taller seats, complimented by taller-than-usual door entries. The dashboard controls – well laid-out and symmetrical - are large and well within the reach of the average-sized driver, part of Ford's design choices aimed at an aging population. The long, tall side windows allow for very good rear visibility in the hatchback, and interior space – especially front headroom – is excellent in all models.

The backseat collapses to expanded cargo space; the hatchback models offer 40 cubic feet of space with seats dropped and 17.6 when the seats are up. The trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of room.

Optional safety features include antilock brakes (except the ZX4 ST, where they're standard). Side-impact airbags are optional on all models.

Overall, the Focus models offer a no-nonsense, decently sporty feel and represent great value for the money. They should continue at the top of Ford's lineup for some time into the future.