To be labeled with
the Top Safety Pick+ designation, a vehicle must achieve the top rating of
"good" in four out of five IIHS crash tests, as well as score no
lower than "acceptable" in the fifth test. The stringent evaluations
include moderate- and small-overlap frontal, side-impact, rollover and rear
crash tests. Boosted by the extensive use of high-strength and
ultra-high-strength steel in its body structure, the 2013 Ford Focus received
"good" ratings in four tests and an "acceptable" in the new
small-overlap frontal test.
"Unlike some
of its competitors, the Ford Focus' smaller size doesn't result in any
sacrifice in safety, as its body structure is designed to absorb more energy
during an impact," said John Melkonian, general manager of Stoneham Ford,
a Massachusetts Ford
dealer. "Beyond its rigid frame, the Ford Focus uses sensors to determine
the weight and seat-belt status of front passengers, allowing the car to tailor
the deployment force of airbags for maximum protection."
The Ford Focus also
uses smart technologies to promote safe driving, making an accident less likely
in the first place. Parents of teen drivers can program Ford's MyKey feature to
limit the volume of the audio system or even completely mute sounds when
seatbelts aren't fastened. Additionally, they can set the top speed of the
vehicle to 65, 70, 75 or 80 mph.
While the Ford
Focus is designed to fully protect its passengers, it is far from a snoozer on
the road, especially for buyers who opt for the performance-focused ST model.
Featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine churning out 252 horsepower
and 270 pound-feet of torque, the 2014 Ford Focus ST hatchback harnesses all
that output with a sport suspension and high-performance front and rear disc
brakes. Outside, the model's more aggressive demeanor is communicated by a bold
one-piece trapezoidal grille with hexagonal mesh, an integrated roof spoiler
and wraparound taillamps.
"The Focus ST
is a great choice for buyers who want a hot hatch that is still a sensible
purchase," added Melkonian. "It is very safe, returns a class-leading
manual fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway, and features intuitive technology
like the optional SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system."
