2008 Ford Focus Coupe

The Ford Focus has been redesigned for 2008, but reviews indicate the redesign is really more of a refresh on a nine-year-old platform. Reviews are noticeably unenthusiastic about the completely new Ford Focus coupe, which, based on the sedan, is replacing last year's hatchback. Only one engine is offered this year: a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder that auto writers find slow and coarse-sounding. The Focus's fuel economy is respectable, with EPA figures of 24 mpg city, 33-35 mpg highway and real-world averages ranging from 25 to 31 mpg.

Critics say the 2008 Focus drives like a midsize car with commendable stability and a compliant ride, but its steering and handling, while well-balanced, are reported to be not as sharp or as fun as last year's model. One top feature mentioned by reviews is the optional new hands-free SYNC hard-drive entertainment system that integrates with cell phones or portable music players. Overall, reviewers are quick to praise the new Focus's 'many improvements and say it's a better choice than the Chevrolet Cobalt coupe (*est. $14,410 to $22,335) and the Pontiac G5 (*est. $15,675 to $19,850), but reviews say it still doesn't match or beat leading competitors like the highly rated Honda Civic coupe (*est. $14,810 to $23,060) or the Scion tC (*est. $15,300 to $17,800).

There are many good road-test reviews of the Ford Focus coupe available, including one from Cars.com, which provides detailed driving impressions. Edmunds.com features a well-balanced review of a Focus coupe that was purchased to serve as a long-term test car. Comprehensive, well-done reviews are also available at NewCarTestDrive.com and Automobile.com, while shorter summary reviews can be found at TheCarConnection.com and from Car and Driver. ConsumerGuide.com's' evaluation is a bit brief but still offers many informative comments. Kelley Blue Book gives the Focus its recommendation and provides a coupe-specific summary review.