2012 Ford Focus SE manual transmission

Too bad more people don't drive cars with manual transmissions. Skipping the PowerShift automatic in the Focus and getting a stick instead eliminates one of the car's biggest annoyances. It also just happens to make an entertaining car even more enjoyable.

We were curious about how the Focus would drive with a manual transmission. Since our tested Foci (a SE sedan and a SES hatchback) are both automatics, we borrowed a stick-shift SE sedan from Ford.

As we've written before, the Focus doesn't use a traditional automatic transmission. Instead it uses a manual gearbox that shifts automatically, without a clutch pedal. These transmissions can be more efficient than a traditional automatic since they eliminate the torque converter, thereby reducing parasitic losses. But the Focus' PowerShift transmission doesn't shift smoothly at low speeds; it feels like it's being driven by someone who is just learning to drive a stick.

For those who can truly drive a stick, the manual transmission Focus banishes those complaints. The clutch pedal effort initially feels a bit high, but you quickly get used to it, and the shifter is smooth and light. It all adds up to a car that's more engaging to drive, improving on its already impressive handling and solid feel.

Manual transmissions usually give a fuel economy boost over automatic equivalents, but the Focus might not follow suit. We don't do instrumented tests on borrowed press cars. But when we tested two Ford Fiestas, the automated manual version got better fuel economy than the do-it-yourself manual. The Focus' traditional manual has only five gears while the PowerShift has six. EPA numbers are better for the "automatic" and it's telling that the "super-fuel-economy" Focus SFE version is automatic only.

Some enthusiasts have complained online that Ford only offers the Focus manual in the lower S and SE trim lines; SES and Titanium models are auto only. That eliminates some features for those trying to build a budget Audi or BMW alternative, like the optional leather power seats. You also can't get MyFord Touch. But, then again, we don't think that's a big loss in the system's present overcomplicated form.

Our borrowed $21,150 Focus SE was really well-equipped, including a sports package with 17-inch wheels, Sync voice control, and seat heaters. It didn't have a moonroof, but it's available. Looking at the competition, the only car in this price range that lets you get a leather-lined loaded manual transmission version is the Mazda3s Grand Touring.

Adding a third pedal doesn't eliminate all of the Focus's foibles. The rear seat is small, and some of the controls could use a rework. But getting a manual will save you $1,095 and is more fun in the bargain.

—Tom Mutchler