All About Japan Autos

To compete with Japanese automakers, Ford is stepping up its game. “Ford has worked hard over the past few years to completely overhaul its entire model line,” says Autoblog. “Recent product launches like the 2011 Mustang and Fiesta show that FoMoCo is committed to making class-leading vehicles, and the larger (ahem) focus on style, quality and packaging is nothing short of impressive.&rdquo.

The 2012 Focus, revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, is the next vehicle in the Ford lineup to receive a thorough update. “Packed with more affordable technologies and features than ever before, the new global Focus offers the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship along with outstanding fuel economy, and takes the car’s legendary driving dynamics to a new level of engagement,” Ford states in a press release.

While it’s very likely that this well-equipped focus will pose tough competition for cars like the Honda Civic and Chevrolet Cruze, these changes may hurt consumers’ pockets. “[T]he 2012 Ford Focus S sedan will start at $16,270,” Edmunds explains. “Standard features include: a four-speaker stereo with a CD player, integrated blind-spot mirrors, air conditioning, five-speed manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels, power front windows and front disc/rear drum brakes with ABS. It will be powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower. After the S is the SE ($17,270), SEL ($20,270) and the top trim Titanium Sedan, which will start at $22,270.”

The Focus also has a five door hatchback model that’s more expensive; it starts at $18,065. Ford is already offering a $500 rebate for consumers who order a 2012 Focus between now and February 2011, but only time will tell if a small incentive and a lot of hype will be enough to convince consumers to pay about $20,000 for a well-equipped Ford.

The 2012 Ford Focus should hit show rooms in the spring of 2011.

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