The redesigned 2012 Ford Focus is pretty popular here in the C/D office—we awarded it a 2012 10Best honor—and the same goes for manual transmissions. We like what happens when you put the two together, especially since it allows buyers to avoid the less-than-stellar dual-clutch automatic that’s offered in the Focus. The only problem with making this seemingly simple transmission choice is that not all Focus trim levels have been available with the three-pedal option. That’s why we’re happy to report that, per sources at Ford, the manual option is migrating this spring to the top-shelf Focus Titanium trim level.
Currently, the five-speed manual is only available on the base Focus S sedan and the mid-level SE sedan and hatch. The upmarket SEL and Titanium trims have been automatic-only, leaving enthusiasts seeking a Focus with all the trimmings out in the cold. (The SEL will remain automatic-only, and the turbocharged Focus ST will ship exclusively with a six-speed manual when it goes on sale later this year.) Regardless of transmission choice, the Titanium package includes MyFord Touch, front sport buckets, and 17-inch wheels as standard. An available handling package bundles a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch wheels with summer tires.
We were told the decision to expand manual-transmission availability to the Titanium was guided by a combination of factors both within and outside of Ford, but the company is still taking a bit of a jump here. That’s because apparently enough customers have expressed interest in a top-spec manual Focus to make it happen—many asked specifically for a manual-equipped Titanium with the handling pack—but, so far, only about seven percent of buyers have chosen the stick in its available trims. The take rate may be low because of the transmission’s relatively limited availability, or because there actually isn’t all that much interest in it.
Either way, Ford will find out soon enough, as dealers have been told the manual-equipped Titaniums are on the way. We’ll consider the move a “win” for Save the Manuals fans everywhere.
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