New Ford Focus a Surprise Success

I’ll admit it: I did not think the redesigned Ford Focus would be a huge success. I mean, just look at it. There are some interesting angles, especially on the sedan, but come on, the coupe? It’s a dog. My old Escort had better lines.

Still, in our current economic surroundings the little economy car with a small price tag and high mpg is doing well. How well? The plant where it’s built in Wayne, Mich. is ramping up to produce 30% more Focus this year.

I reviewed the new Focus in November and thought the interior was well done. The Sync entertainment system is a genius idea actually implemented properly. Still, the Honda Civic is a far better choice, not to mention the other solid competition from Toyota, Hyundai and Mazda.

In any case, the Focus just passed the Chevy Cobalt in sales last month. Now there’s a car I’m even more shocked to see selling well — tepid economy or no.

Ford to build 30% more of its Focus small cars this year (USA Today)