 No more off-line hesitancy or stuttering from the automatic transmissions of these new Focuses.  Ford FINALLY fixed that multi-year problem for good.  The new one here is silky-smooth.  Of course the rest of the car was already competitive, and a great value during rebate time.  Watch for aggressive small-car promotions from Ford to maintain their corporate average fuel economy in light of their booming truck and SUV sales.  They're GIVING away Focuses and Fiestas.