Well, that's a choice you'll have to make on your own, but don't pass by Ford's compact entry just because you've got a bias

The Focus delivers dependability while benefiting owners with unique styling, engaging driving dynamics, plenty of options and a very competitive price. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

against domestics. The Focus, which was plagued with recalls when introduced, is now one of the most reliable compacts on the market, and that according to Consumer Reports which just recently chose it as a ten best pick for the second year running. What's more, California's Strategic Vision just rated the Focus the best Small Car in its recently released Total Quality study, "tied" with the Hyundai Accent and Mazda3 despite achieving 860 points, compared to 859 for the other two. Bottom line, the Focus is a very good car. If it was boring to look at, mundane to drive and didn't offer many standard features or body styles, but delivered solid reliability, it might still be a good buy. But the Focus delivers dependability while benefiting owners with unique styling, engaging driving dynamics, a total of four body styles and a host of top-drawer features, all for a very competitive price. It's definitely a car worth serious consideration.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $16,795 - $26,145
• Body Type: 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 136-hp, 133 lb-ft of torque, 2.0L DOHC 16-valve inline I-4
• Optional Engine: 151-hp, 154 lb-ft of torque, 2.3L DOHC 16-valve I-4
• Transmission: 5-speed manual (optional 4-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (optional rear discs, ABS)
• Curb Weight (min - max): 1,204 - 1,265 kg (2,654 - 2,790 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (maximum sedan/hatchback/wagon): 419 / 1,203 / 1,580 L (14.8 / 42.5 / 55.8 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 9.0 - 7.8 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Cobalt, Dodge SX 2.0, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Pontiac Pursuit, Saturn ION, Subaru Impreza, Suzuki Aerio, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf / Jetta
• Web Site: www.ford.ca