The automotive press has been pretty merciless towards the Ford Focus since its recent redesign. Comparisons with the European-market model are inevitable; critics claim the latter is gourmet cuisine while our Focus seems like leftovers.

The Focus manages to distinguish itself style-wise in the compact class.

That's in theory. In the real world, though, we must stop and realize what consumers' needs and wants are. Can the Focus deliver the goods on what's really important?

Adequate drivetrain
There were two engine choices last year, as the Focus ZX4 ST was equipped with a 151-hp, 2.3-liter unit while all other models came with the 136-hp 2.0-liter. For 2008, the smaller engine is the only remaining choice, which now generates 140 horses and 136 lb-ft of torque.

The 5-speed manual transmission is a decent performer. The clutch is light and the shifter is easy to operate. This engine and tranny combo is good for 8.5-second sprints for 100 km/h, which is plenty quick. During this test, fuel consumption is averaging 9.6 L/100 km, which is fine.

The Focus' drivetrain isn't as smooth as what's found in some competitors, but it does its job without fuss. The Sport model could use a little more power, though, to set it apart.

The last Focus I drove was a 2006 ZX5, and I found it to be one of the best-handling compacts around. The new Focus is more mature, more grown-up, and lost a little of its magic touch. Still, this SES coupe can be quite playful when you tease a stick at it. In case you're wondering, the coupe is mechanically similar to the sedan.

Improved appearance
Nicer-looking materials grace the interior of the Focus, and I really like a black headliner, which looks classier than the usual beige. The dashboard is much more modern and, finally, ditches the awful cigarette lighter that poked out of the centre stack like a wart. The Focus has good seats, and three adults can even cram in the back seat and stay there for a while, provided they don't mind a little shoulder rubbin'.

The dashboard is much more modern.