While last year I was tripping down to Phoenix to test drive the Rolls Royce Wraith (covered on Daily XY), this isn’t the type of car that is all that realistic for the vast majority of drivers. On my last trip over to Vancouver Island I tried something a little more affordable and was pleased to discover that you can get a well-equipped auto-mobile starting at $24,000, the Ford Focus Titanium.

This auto goes from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, making it quicker than many others in its class.  The six-speed dual-clutch makes it no slacker on the highways. The car is nimble, handling curves well with responsive steering.

The Ford Focus Titanium is small enough to shimmy into tight parking spots but the interior seems more spacious once you are in with plenty of legroom for the driver and front seat passenger, although the back passengers have a bit less, so don’t be offering Michael Jordan a ride.

Options include leather seats, a power moon roof, ambient lighting, and Intelligent Access, a feature that allows you to merely have the fob in your pocket, gently touch the inside of the front door handle and you’ve got access. Once in just hit the start button and you’re off.

The MyFord Touch infotainment system is always handy for hands-free calling; voice/touch climate control keeps you comfortable when the temperature shifts and Bluetooth audio allows you to play the tunes on your phone. Most importantly Active Park Assist helps you avoid any damage when you’re parallel parking.

This is a car that could easily zip you around town stylishly, but has the power to hit the road for weekend getaways. Now just to choose the colour.

Cassandra