35 MPG 2009 Ford Focus SE Review

Submitted by sterling on Sun, 09/07/2008 - 20:03.

Three weeks ago, I was driving to meet friends to watch the new comedy, Tropic Thunder, when my AC went out on the freeway. I later brought the car to the dealership for repairs and borrowed brand new econo box rental: a 2009 gold metallic Ford Focus SE 4 door sedan.

I have driven many small econonical cars and rentals in the past. To my surprise the new 2009 Ford Focus was pretty impressive in terms of MPG and usefulness.

I had the rental for 2 days to commute to work and run errands. The Focus was equiped with air bags all around, power everything, air conditioning, and Sirrus satelite radio. The black interior hid most of the cheap plastic materials on the dash, however the silver metallic detailing did make the car appear more stylish.

Upon driving the narrow Focus, I felt the suspension was taut, however the car felt top heavy due to the tall roof line. The transmission and engine felt satisfactory in acceleration and sprints through traffic in the city and average torque on the highway speeds. Driving 70 miles per hour for 35 miles was easy and felt adequate considering it was a small commuter car.

The Focus has an onboard milage computer and MPG guage to help users save gas. I found it useful in reminding people to lay off the gas pedal and watch your MPG grow. During my drive, I managed to get 35.3 MPG going to and from work, according to the trip computer. Thats with air conditioning on. Economy wise, I only used about 2 gallons to get to work versus my 4 gallons in my Nissan Altima. Not bad for a 15 thousand dollar car, compared to paying 10 thousand more for a hybrid.

The exterior of the vehicle was average, there was nothing special to not other than the Kumho tires and 15 inch alloys. The paint was clean and beautiful. The styling was kinda blocky, with plastic parts on the exterior.

The interior cabin was okay, however the trunk space was abundant and useful. The padding and insulation of the trunk was minimal and thin with wires exposed and dangling, rather than hidden or held back somewhere.

Th engine compartment was open with a layout which was easy to access main fluilds, however some elements looked like poor design with heat sheilds being wrapped around items and electronic wiring.

Overall i loved the real world MPG, good handling, the overall good commuter car. The interior was comforable for the driver and front passenger, but may be too small for the rear passengers. I would drive the Focus again or consider it as a commuter vehicle alternative to a pricy hybrid.