While the exterior has been warmed over, getting the award for most improved is the interior of the 2005 Ford Focus. For those unfamiliar with the cockpit of last year’s Focus, envision edgy design gone awry. Smooth, subtle lines were not the goal of the first generation model, though they’ve arrived for the 2005 model year. From a driver’s perspective, the new Focus may look like an import competitor, unless too much attention is paid to the details. Lest anyone start thinking this is not an economy car, have a gander at the hard, shiny pillar covers, possibly the most insubstantial sunvisors found in a modern car, or the occasional trim piece that looks as though it was grabbed off the assembly line a bit early.

Despite the short list of negatives, traveling in the 2005 Ford Focus is an overall positive experience. Front and rear seats are comfortable and well bolstered, though drivers would likely welcome a lumbar adjustment for long drives. A fold-down center armrest is standard on all but the S models, and is well placed with a bin containing enough space for cell phones, parking cards or other small items. Matching fabric on the door panels adds a nice touch, and sizeable front door storage pockets improve functionality. SES and ST models include a thick, leather-wrapped, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, which serves to add a bit of a sporting feel. Steering wheel-mounted radio and cruise controls, also standard on these models, are well placed but feel cheap. Instrument panel controls are simple to access and understand. Finally, all 2005 Ford Focus models have a height-adjustable driver’s seat so most people should be able to find a position to their liking. The rear 60/40 split bench seat folds down, increasing cargo room and versatility, and is positioned at a height that allows for easy entry and exit. Rear headroom and legroom are sufficient, but not commodious.

Priced at about $500 on our ZX4 ST, the optional Sony sound system was a disappointment. When either traveling at low speeds or with all of the windows up, the system offered decent sound quality. However, at higher volume or while cruising with all of the windows down, sound quality suffered. Considering that a six-disc CD changer and MP3 player are already standard equipment on the ZX4 ST, coupled with the amount of precious space the Sony system’s subwoofer occupies in the trunk, we’d probably cross it off our options list.