Description: Sub-Compact Sedan, Wagon and Hatchback
Base MSRP Range: $13,450 - $17,495
Invoice Price Range: $12,710 - $16,256
Where built: USA

Ford's sub-compact series splits into four formats as a four-door sedan, five-door station wagon, and hatchbacks in three-door and five-door configurations. Model nomenclature follows body styles with ZX3 for the three-door hatchback and ZX5 for the five-door hatch, ZX4 as a four-door sedan and ZXW for the wagon. There's surprising room in the concise cabin with twin buckets in front of a fold-down bench.

Two different four-cylinder engines add spark to Focus in 2006. The 2.0-liter Duratec base plant delivers 136 hp. For performance-geared Focus ZX4 ST sedan, a 2.3-liter Duratec engine hits 151 hp.

Brakes with ABS are standard on the ST sedan, but ABS shows up on the list of options for trims of S, SE and SES. Also, side-impact air bags are available on all Focus models, and new 2006 paint shades extend to Dark Toreador Red Clearcoat Metallic and Screaming Yellow Clearcoat.