 I decided to buy my '09 Ford Focus SE during the Cash For Clunkers.  I test drove compact and midsize cars from every manufacturer except Toyota and Honda.  I love the car after almost 5000 miles I have averaged about 33 mpg 40/60 city/highway driving.  The car has a very comfortable driving position and the car is easy to drive.  Sure its not a rocket, but I don't feel the need to race people from stop light to stop light around town.  However, I have no issues merging or passing on the highway.  The brakes are solid, and the car gives a confident feel on curvy roads and in windy conditions.  The dash materials are hard to touch but all things I routinely touch are soft and feel nice.