The 2008 Focus begs to be driven, especially after all the new updates Ford engineers added to it. On the outside, revised headlamps, grille, and a new front bumper fit in with an emerging Ford family "face". The hood and front fenders are also new, designed to look more upscale and substantial than before. Sedans also receive new taillights and a restyled rear bumper. Inside the 08 Focus, a new instrument panel provides a cleaner, more upscale appearance with no loss of the original car's excellent control interface. Most models can be equipped with two-tone interior color schemes for a richer cabin environment, and leather is available on higher trim levels. Under the hood, a new 2.0-liter, 136-horsepower, Duratec engine replaces the three motors that were previously available on the Ford Focus. This new engine provides additional oomph over the previous 110- and 130-hp engines in most Focus models. In California and selected Northeastern states, the new Duratec engine meets super ultra-low emission vehicle (SULEV) standards and emits zero fuel system evaporative emissions to qualify as a PZEV. Ford says that this super-clean engine makes the Focus less polluting than some hybrid vehicles. Either engine can be mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Four Focus models are offered for 2008: a three-door hatchback (ZX3), a four-door sedan (ZX4), a five-door hatchback (ZX5) and a station wagon (ZXW). Trim levels include base S (on all but the wagon), upgraded SE, and well-equipped SES. All 2008 Ford Focus models include larger wheels, bigger brakes, and thicker stabilizer bars for improved handling. Revised spring rates improve the ride quality for 2008. The Base S models are sparsely equipped, with a CD player and a seat-height adjuster the most notable items of standard equipment. Stepping up to the SE nets air conditioning; power windows, locks and mirrors; and remote keyless entry. The SES version includes a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, fog lights, tachometer, six-disc in-dash CD changer, 16-inch alloy wheels and steering wheel controls for the sound system. Options of interest include side impact airbags, ABS with traction control, a power sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats and an Audiophile sound system with Sony speakers. The Focus ZX4 ST sedan with a 2.3-liter, 150-horsepower engine is a little different from the other Focus models. The ST gets unique 16-inch alloy wheels, Pirelli P206/50R16 all-season performance tires, a specially-tuned exhaust system, and the struts and shocks found on the 2004 Ford Focus SVT that are 50 percent stiffer. The ST is the only Focus to get rear disc brakes as standard equipment, and it comes only with a charcoal color interior with special trim and seat upholstery. A good car has gotten better for 2008, and Car and Driver magazine has named the 2008 Ford Focus to its annual Ten Best Cars list for the fifth consecutive year.