The 2010 North American Auto Show was abuzz with the introduction of the much-anticipated new 2012 Ford Focus.

Just as the very first model was introduced on the world stage, the upcoming model is polarizing Focus enthusiasts around the world. Some of the "trademark" Focus styling like the vertical taillights are now gone, while the evolution of Kinetic Design continues. North Americans will only see a 4-door sedan or the 5-door hatchback, which has already raised some opposition from loyal 3-door hatchback owners.

The 2012 Focus represents the reconvergence of its platform. What does that mean? It means that the Ford Focus will be essentially the same whether you drive one in Europe or Asia or the US or Canada.

With a new direct-injection 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) , dry-clutch PowerShift transmission, Dynamic Cornering Control, and the revolutionary MyFord Touch integrated controls for all of climate, navigation and entertainment , this new Focus is aimed at those who want a premium compact car with all the technology goodies that's affordable. With 155 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, it's more powerful, more fuel-efficient, and more economical than the current Focus.

Rumours are already bubbling about higher performance models like an ST, SVT, or even an RS. Rumour also has it that Ford might be fitting an EcoBoost engine into the Focus later in the generation's production run. We'll have to see whether those rumours come true.

The North American version is expected in early 2011. Learn more and register for updates at Ford's website.

Autoblog recently posted about an interview with Automobile magazine and Jost Capito, the new Director, Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development over at the Ford Motor Company.

Read all about it on Automobile magazine's blog.

Some people get all the fun!

About a dozen Focus enthusiasts in the US were invited to the Wayne Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan to see the first 2008's roll off the assembly line. Included with the batch were some notables, including members from our US friends at FocalJet.com, FocusFanatics.com, and "Turbo Tom" Lesperance.

You can read the article here at The Detroit News website.

The 3rd Annaul FocusCanada.net BBQ in Burlington, Ontario was another great success. Focus owners from across the area were assembled in one location for the largest Focus gathering in the country. Thanks to AnthonyD for hosting another great event, as well as darkpuppet for organizing the whole shindig.

You can view the thread coverage and pics on the FocusCanada web site.