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The hatchback is back. A creature of the ’70s, it went the way of disco and Pet Rocks once fickle American drivers decided the configuration was just too declasse.

But everything has changed, and the nation’s love affair with SUVs and other station-wagon-type vehicles has created a vast array of interesting niches that automakers are clamoring to fill. A most recent entry is the compact five-door hatchback, such as the Ford Focus ZX5.

New for 2002, the ZX5 is one of the most interesting examples. Take the highly popular Focus (reputed to be the best-selling vehicle in the world), which has been available as a three-door hatchback, and add a couple of back doors. Voila, another niche filled.

Although the ZX5 may sound like a station wagon, there is a major difference: Unlike boxy wagons, the five-door is designed for young, sporty drivers who may need the extra space but chafe at the station-wagon label.

To thwart that association, the five-door is designed with a sloping roofline and a sharply canted rear gate. This may cut into cargo space, but the look is sharp and appealing. Check out the strong reception given the latest five-door hatchbacks, such as the upcoming Pontiac Vibe and the Hyundai Elantra. The retro PT Cruiser is the most striking example.

The recent Detroit Auto Show hosted a burgeoning number of five-door concept vehicles.

ZX5, with its edgy Euro looks and sporty road manners, has been an immediate hit among youthful drivers. My teenage boys were totally smitten by its styling.

Focus’ highway performance upholds its appearance. Crisp steering and quick handling make it a blast to drive, especially with the standard 130-horsepower engine and five-speed stickshift, both of which come standard. The base engine in other Focus models have 110-horsepower, with the 130-horse version available as an option.

ZX5’s acceleration is brisk, though not what you’d call fast, accompanied by a satisfying engine growl.

All four Focus models, three-door and five-door hatchbacks, sedan and station wagon, are built on the same 103-inch wheelbase.

Although the tight suspension is appreciated in cornering maneuvers, it does get harsh, buffeting driver and passengers on rough surfaces and stumbling over such things as Phoenix’s ubiquitous speed humps. Considerable road noise is transmitted inside when riding on concrete freeways.

But the young target market should welcome the comfort tradeoff for sporty handling.

The interior is surprisingly roomy, partially because of a high roofline and upright seating position. The rear seat is tight, but not bad considering the exterior dimensions. Cargo space with the back seat folded is roomy but small when the back seat is up.

The interior styling is sharp and angular. It nicely matches the body style, with its dramatically upturned headlights and triangular taillights mounted high on the back pillars. The rear styling is controversi al. Some people think it looks aggressive and futuristic, while others find it just plain boxy.

The dashboard gauges are clear and complete, set in a stylishly swooping dashboard array. Chief complaint is the center armrest that is mounted too high and won’t fold entirely out of the way. It interferes with arm movement while shifting gears. I’d remove it.

ZX5 comes fully equipped for under $16,000, but some safety features are left off the base model, such as side air bags, which cost an extra $350. The test Focus came with leather seating priced at $695.

Traction control comes as part of a package called Advance Trac, which is an electronic system that helps control skidding or other loss of vehicle control, at $1,625. That may sound like a lot, but it can keep a driver out of trouble, especially one who is young and inexperienced.

Of course, you don’t have to be a young thing to appreciate the ZX5. Anyone who enjoys fun driving but needs a versatile, economic vehicle should find much here to like.