2012 Ford Focus: Up Close

I’m really impressed with the new Focus’ styling. It’s not different just for the sake of being different, and it incorporates a lot of intricate design cues that come together to form a cohesive look. The large triangular grilles in the lower front bumper draw your eye immediately, but I worry the look will be marred in states that require a front license plate.

Three cheers to Ford for bringing back the hatchback Focus, too. There’s no word on whether a coupe version will join the sedan and hatch.

Ford wouldn’t let journalists who attended its press conference crawl around the cabin of the cars on display because it said they were early models. But our staff photographer got access. It’s clear from taking a look at the cabin that it’s going to have the same kind of upscale design as the exterior. Premium details include silver accents on the power window switches, piano black trim and stitching on the door panels, dashboard and shifter boot. Though sitting in the Focus was off-limits, the sedan’s backseat doesn’t look like it has a lot of legroom.

There’s been a lot of skepticism about whether U.S. consumers will be willing to trade their large cars and SUVs for small vehicles absent the incentive of high gas prices. With the new Focus, that’s not going to be an issue because its available technology features and stylish looks make it a car that many consumers will want for reasons other than affordability and good mileage. If you’re in the market for a small car, let us know in the comments if the new Focus is enticing enough to make you hold off on your purchase for a year, as it hits dealerships in early 2011.