Ford polishes Focus after consumer backlash


Click the image above for more shots of the 2008 Ford Focus.

The pure, unadulterated loathing of the redesigned Focus has apparently been heard by FoMoCo execs, and according to Automotive News, a move began in late August that attempted to smooth out the 2008 model's rough edges. The styling revisions include the replacement of the show car's square fog lights with round units; black door handles instead of chrome; aluminum trim on the instrument panel in lieu of shiny inserts; a mesh cover that cured the gaping opening in the grille; white-on-black seats that allow for more contrast and carry over styling cues from the Fusion and Mustang; plus more chrome on the vents and gearshift knob.

This is a highly unusual move by an automaker to garner favor with the public, but considering the outcry heard from both consumers and media alike, it's not much of a surprise. Although we can commend Ford for its efforts (and expenditure), we doubt that these kind of subtle tweaks are going to change public perception about a model in need of much more than a nose job and some botox.

[Source: Automotive News – Sub. Req.]

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 4)








Autoblog Podcast #151: With Car and Driver's Eddie Alterman

Eddie Alterman wades in with Sam, Chris, Dan, and Jonny to talk about SEMA and other recent events.

 
 

Featured Galleries

  • Zenvo ST1 Details
  • SEMA 2009: HPP Daytona Challenger
  • LA Design Challenge 2009 Competitors
  • SEMA 2009: 1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS
  • SEMA 2009: Bigfoot
  • SEMA 2009: Black Bison Toyota Alphard
  • Ford's Inflatable Seat Belts
  • 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder
  • Shelby Turbocharged Mustang
  • Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition
  • SEMA 2009: Ringbrothers 1964 Ford Fairlane
  • SEMA 2009: Lexus F-Sport

AOL Autos

Find Your Next Car

Autoblog Video


Autoblog Green

Daily Finance

Download Squad

Engadget

Joystiq

Autoblog Spanish

Switched.com

FanHouse

Asylum