2012 Ford Focus Total Car Score Analysis

The 2012 Ford Focus received a high Total Car Score within the Compact Sedans and Wagons category. There’s also an electric version, the Focus Electric, available and covered separately. 
 
Reviewers gave the Focus positive marks for its sporty handling, supple and controlled ride, excellent steering feel and relatively high fuel economy. The Focus was also lauded for its modern and stylish interior stocked with an abundance of upscale amenities and advanced electronics.  
 
On the negative side, the Focus was criticized for an automatic transmission that stumbles at low speeds. And the interior suffers from poor visibility and a moderate amount of road noise. Other minuses include a tight rear seat and cluttered audio controls. 
 
The completely redesigned 2012 Ford Focus marks the start of the car’s third generation.

2012 Ford Focus Model Line-Up

The 2012 Ford Focus is offered as either a compact sedan or hatchback in four trims: S, SE, SEL and Titanium. The hatchback-only 2012 Focus Electric is covered separately. 
 
The S model brings a standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel, keyless entry, 15-inch wheels and a four-speaker stereo. The SE trim includes foglights, steering-wheel audio controls, 16-inch wheels and Ford's MyKey feature. An optional Sport package adds premium wheels and sport seats, while an upgraded stereo with USB interface is a stand-alone option. In addition, the SE hatchback variant benefits from a rear spoiler and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. 
 
The SEL model comes equipped with ambient lighting and one-touch power windows, while the range-topping Titanium trim gets 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, push-button start, the MyFord Touch system and a premium 10-speaker stereo. 
 
Other notable options (packaged and stand-alone) include voice-command navigation, a back-up camera system, rear parking sensors, 18-inch wheels, front seat heat, leather upholstery and a power-adjustable driver seat. 
 
Standard safety comes from ABS, stability control and six airbags. The Ford Focus earns above average crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the highest possible ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 
 
The 2012 Ford Focus is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Energy is channeled to the front wheels by either a five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. 
 
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2012 Ford Focus is 26 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined with the manual transmission and 28/38/31 with the automatic.

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