2002 Ford Focus SVT review from North America

Rear motor mount was loose and caused the engine to rattle at torque load, very common problem, easy fix at about $100 and a 20 minute install.

The catyalitc converter rattles at times, motor mount helped this, but not completely.

The car surges on cold starts, likes to jump forward in 1st gear take off and revs up when you push the clutch untill the car warms up.

This car is not without it's faults, but I still love it. For the money you will be hard pressed to find a car that does everything this thing can. At normal throttle this car feels like your average Focus, but press down on the accelerator and this thing will unleash. It's not the fastest car in the world, but it's fast enough to keep up with pretty much any stock Mustang.

The car looks pretty nice too, I used to hate Focus' because of their rather goofy look. But when I saw a silver SVT at a local car lot, I was impressed. The deep set fog lights are what really make this car, and the really nice looking SVT wheels. The interior looks nice and is comfortable and ergonomic, but it's still a Ford so expect some very serious rattles.

The transmission is solid, the shifter feels great and I believe the car has a new clutch because it grips very easily. But the cars real appeal is it's handling, this thing corners with the greatest of ease. The steering is ridiculously responsive, one minor jerk of the wheel will put you off in a ditch. And the suspension is insanely tight, this car has no body roll and it will knock the fillings out of your teeth if you hit a pot hole. I previously owned a '91 Trans-Am, I can take turns at 70+ mph that I wouldn't dare take over 60 in my TA.

This car has it's ups and downs, I don't recomend this car just to anyone. It's a car for people who like to drive, and still have some practicality to boot.