REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Mission accomplished

Still wet behind the bumpers and already an award winner (Car of the Year in Canada and the United States), the Ford Focus is entering the North American market with its head held high, certain that it can change our perception of "small" cars. With refreshing styling, welcoming interior dimensions and good handling, the Focus obviously has all the assets it needs to attract buyers.The latest and versatile addition to the family is available in four versions: a 3 door hatchback, a 5 door hatchback, a 4 door sedan and a wagon, each with a different trim. Equipment is detailed and prices are competitive. The passenger compartment is bright and tastefully designed (the only jarring note: fake wood inlays) and a fully adjustable driver’s seat makes for comfortable outings.The standard engine (110-hp output) deserves to be ditched in favour of the its alternative (with 130 horses) to ensure better performance (acceleration and pick-up) and to capitalize on this model’s energy. The precise and responsive steering system makes the Focus agile in the city and its firm suspension controls body movements (roll when cornering) while keeping passengers comfortable.

PROS
Roomy interior
Good road stability
Excellent ergonomics

CONS
Marginal engine power (110 horses)
Ugly fake wood inlays (ZTS)
Exaggerated styling

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * * *
Passenger: * *

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Mission accomplished

Still wet behind the bumpers and already an award winner (Car of the Year in Canada and the United States), the Ford Focus is entering the North American market with its head held high, certain that it can change our perception of "small" cars. With refreshing styling, welcoming interior dimensions and good handling, the Focus obviously has all the assets it needs to attract buyers.The latest and versatile addition to the family is available in four versions: a 3 door hatchback, a 5 door hatchback, a 4 door sedan and a wagon, each with a different trim. Equipment is detailed and prices are competitive. The passenger compartment is bright and tastefully designed (the only jarring note: fake wood inlays) and a fully adjustable driver’s seat makes for comfortable outings.The standard engine (110-hp output) deserves to be ditched in favour of the its alternative (with 130 horses) to ensure better performance (acceleration and pick-up) and to capitalize on this model’s energy. The precise and responsive steering system makes the Focus agile in the city and its firm suspension controls body movements (roll when cornering) while keeping passengers comfortable.

PROS
Roomy interior
Good road stability
Excellent ergonomics

CONS
Marginal engine power (110 horses)
Ugly fake wood inlays (ZTS)
Exaggerated styling

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * * *
Passenger: * *

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box.

To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

 CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box.

To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

 CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)

REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box.

To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

 CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)