The 2014 Ford Focus Ranks High on the List of the Ten Best Back-to-School Cars

Sept. 3, 2013 - PRLog -- The fun-to-drive, versatile 2014 Ford Focus has claimed the second spot on the Kelley Blue Book’s list of the Top Ten Best Back-to-School Cars. The popular compact, currently featured at Arlington Heights Ford, a leading Ford dealership near Naperville (http://www.ahford.com/section/secondary/about-us/Arlington-Heights-IL-Ford-Dealer), was recognized by the automotive experts at KBB for offering drivers a compelling blend of form and function, from its “kinetic design” and well-crafted interior, to its nimble handling and abundant safety features.

With its dependable, zippy performance, wide array of standard features, and affordable price tag, the Focus is the perfect choice for a student. Available as either a sedan or a hatchback, the Ford compact has been among the top rated vehicles in its class since it was first introduced back in 2000.

The Focus is offered in three basic trim levels: the S, SE, and Titanium. The standard engine across all three trims is a 2.0L 4-cylinder that delivers a lively 160 hp with 146 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, with a 6-speed Powershift automatic as an available option.

Fuel economy is an important factor for all car buyers, but possibly even more so for a student. Rating an impressive EPA estimated 27 mpg city/38 mpg highway with the automatic transmission, and 26 mpg city/36 mpg highway with the manual, the Focus helps stretch those dollars at the pump.

The sleek, sporty design is instantly appealing, as is the modern interior. Finely detailed with upscale materials, comfortable seating, and a wide assortment of standard and available features, the Focus has the look and feel of a much more expensive vehicle.

While the spacious trunk on the sedan model is more than ample, for maximum versatility the hatchback, with its 60/40-split folding rear seats provides more versatility, which students in particular should appreciate.

Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, and an array of advanced airbags. The Ford Synch telematics system, which provides emergency crash notification among many other useful features, is available on all Focus models.

With an MSRP that starts at only $16,310, the 2014 Focus is, as the KBB list indicates, a terrific value and an excellent choice for a back-to-school car.

Contact Arlington Heights Ford for more information (http://www.ahford.com/page/ContactUsForm3/master/secondar...) regarding the stellar new Ford Focus. They are located at 801 W. Dundee Rd., in Arlington Heights, IL, just minutes from Palatine, Naperville, and Chicago.