[oldeguy]

I have to agree that the 2012 Focus is far removed from the 2000-2011 Focus. The 2012 is quieter, safer, more economical, and far better in regards to "creature comforts" and technological gadgets. It is a completely different creature than the 2000-2011. If you want, a track car, Ford will sell you a Focus ST-R. Most people, aka, the general public, don't care if you can put a turbo in it, or if you can mod it up to your ying-yang. What the 2012 Focus is, is a new, up to date car that the general public a looking for in a new car that they buy from Ford. It isn't a Subaru, it isn't a BMW, it isn't an Audi, it's a Ford. Before you write it off, drive one, for more than 20 minutes. In 2000, I had to rent a car, and rented a Focus, while my beloved Escort was in for another repair, and I hated the Focus, told my wife that we won't be getting that car, ever. A few months later, I had to rent a car again, for another repair to my beloved Escort, and again got a Focus. I took a bit of time to get more comfortable in the Focus, and drove it for a day or two, and drove it like I drove my Escort, and loved the Focus. I've only had two, a 2000 ZTS, and now a 2012 SEL Sedan. I miss my 2000, because it felt like and sounded like, a driver's car, with all the noise and rattles you could want. The 2012, when driven like it can be, is better, despite being heavier, more economical and quieter. The 160 hp engine when pushed, is as much, or more responsive than the 2000. Remember, I'm talking stock vehicles, not modded. If you guys wait, go drive the ST when it comes out, and compare it to a 2012 Subaru, Audi, BMW, etc. including price and content.