Ford has been one of the big winners during the government’s “cash for clunkers” program (which ends Monday). The automaker’s popular Escape small SUV is the nation’s most popular purchase for customers trading in clunkers, followed by the Focus compact sedan. The Focus, always hailed by the automotive press as a sweet-riding small car, nonetheless seemed a step or two behind the competition in styling.

Not any more. Our 2010 Focus SES tester was the best compact car I have driven this year. A combination of sporty driving dynamics and thoughtful styling tweaks have made the Focus a must-see for customers in this segment.

“It’s a beautiful car,” said Moss Motor Co. sales manage Shawn Henson. “And they are pretty well loaded-up, too.”

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: The Focus SES come standard with a four-cylinder engine that makes 140 horsepower, not neck-snapping power but completely adequate from a car in this weight class. On a spin down Cedar Avenue in South Pittsburg, Tenn., I found an empty parking lot to test the sports suspension, which was nicely composed in tight turns. The driving position is comfortable and visibility is great, except for a small intrusion by a spoiler on the rear deck.

STYLING: The Focus has quietly become a real looker. Our silver metallic SES came with stunning 15-spoke, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels. Viewed from a three-quarters angle the Focus looks almost like a luxury import. Inside, the plastics and fabrics are tasteful. The fit and finish is excellent. Ford has added visual appeal in the SES trim level by blacking out the grille.

FEATURES: Our SES tester features Ford’s ingenious Sync system allowing hands-free cell phone operation, updated navigation functions and seamless MP3 play. Traction and stability control give the Focus a level of safety that economy car buyers couldn’t purchase at any price only a few years ago. Our tester included Sirius satellite radio, air conditioning and ambient lighting to give he cabin an after-dark glow.

BOTTOM LINE: Given the success of the clunker program, inventories of the Focus may be low at your local Ford store. But don’t despair, they’ll make more. A redesigned Focus is due for the 2011 model year.

(E-mail your questions about new vehicles to Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com.)