After many years spent cursing Europe for getting better Ford models, especially the Focus, the 2012 version is what America has waited for, reports Motor Trend.

The stateside Focus wasn't a bad car, states the auto website, it's just that the European one was so much cooler. With a fresh design, better driving ability and way more interior features than ever before, this model is practically flawless.

Some of the dials on the dashboard are a little confusing but like the streets of Europe, aimless navigation often leads to pleasant surprises such as joystick volume control. Motor Trend doesn't seem to like this feature, but it sounds pretty cool to us.

The magazine did like what was found under the hood, however.

"Providing much of the amusement is Ford's new direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Though rated for an unsurprising 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, well-chosen gear ratios make the engine feel stronger than the numbers suggest."

There are two transmission options for the 2012 Ford Focus: a 5-speed manual or a dual-clutch automatic. Both transition very smoothly, although the stick shift is better for country joy rides while the self-working machine is better for every day use.