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I'm a fan of the new Fords, but the new Focus won't be as quick or nimble as a MINI S for sure. Of course the Ford will likely be way cheaper to run and more reliable, so it would depend on your priorities. I haven't driven the new Focus, so I can't comment on it too much, but it looks like good value. Too bad you can't get a manual in the higher trim levels though.

If I were you, I'd wait for the Focus ST! I think that will be way more interesting than any MINI currently out.

 

If I could get a focus RS type car I would have considered it for sure. Ford SYNC system is awesome. I don't know why you cant get the focus in a 2 door. I am tall and I don't like 4 doors on a small car, I don't need the access and it just makes the doors too small. I think it is a good looking car but they need a sport version (turbo, big brakes, suspension etc..) with 2 doors.

 

Basically you're describing the forthcoming ST!

 

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Seems like Ford is trying pretty hard to stamp out all their quality issues these days. I think the 2012 Focus is made in the US this time around instead of Mexico. It's also the same platform as the Euro Focus finally, so i'd assume that it would be of much better quality given the volume of them they sell in Europe.

 

The focus is gonna be a contender mini. Its made totally diff than the past ones, a bit of euro engineering in there..... but remember its a Ford.
Love my Mini

 

Only the cheap models have the option for a manual. Thanks Ford

 

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I'm driving one now while my MCS is in the shop getting a new engine...(maybe). It's nice, but very unresponsive. Plenty of space in the back too.

 

Here's a picture of the Focus ST that will come with a 6 speed manual and a 2.0 liter EcoBoost I-4 engine. Should be interesting...