Launched: 2008 Ford Focus

Ford Motor Company has released details on the 2008 Focus, which has been extensively overhauled for the upcoming model year.

Among the more drastic changes, Ford has dropped the Focus hatchback and wagon. For 2008, the only body styles available are a sedan and, for the first time, a two-door coupe.

The Focus gets revamped sheet metal, including a front end that borrows some styling cues from the larger Fusion sedan. The cabin also gets a major makeover, with new seats, instrument panel and center stack, including an iPod jack and a USB port to sync cell phones and other digital devices. A white-face instrument cluster is available on SES and SE Deluxe trim levels. A new feature is a color-configurable interior ambient lighting system — an evolution of the system first introduced on the 2005 Mustang.

Ford said it has upgraded the suspension on the 2008 Focus to provide better driving dynamics, with revised spring rates, shocks, stabilizer bars and bushings. Brakes also have been improved.

The top engine is a twincam 2.0-liter four-cylinder, with output nudged to 140 horsepower. Five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions are offered.

Side airbags and side curtains are standard equipment for the new Focus.