Getting Better With Age

I forgot just how good Ford's entry-level Focus was until I recently took the opportunity to join the domestic automaker for a

The Ford Focus was engineered in Europe to meet the performance-oriented demands of a populace that drives at much higher speeds on average, than those of us in North America. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

ride and drive event in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. I didn't remember that it was engineered in Europe to meet the performance-oriented demands of a populace that drives at much higher speeds on average, than those of us in North America. I had heaped it among some of its domestic small car rivals that don't offer it's better than average switchgear quality, comfortable yet supportive seats and roomy interior. Truly, my memory had failed me.

I suppose, despite being a rather daring styling exercise when it debuted in 1999 as a 2000 model, the Focus has become somewhat commonplace. It's not indistinguishable in comparison to other compact models, mind you, still featuring the odd but nevertheless stylish

The Focus went through a minor redesign a little less than a year ago, which softened its edges, especially from the front. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

C-pillar taillight treatment in 3- and 5-door guise, new-edge profile and unique front end design, but what was bold and daring last century is now quite acceptable. Of course, the car went through a minor redesign a little less than a year ago, which softened its appearances, especially from the front, and enhanced its cabin. With that change came the new ST; a zippy little sedan with more power than the base car and a few go-fast styling tweaks, such as a body-colour grille and fog lamps up front, plus a rear decklid spoiler out back. Its interior is upgraded too, sporting a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and optional leather seats.