I like 3 door hatch backs and the Focus ZX3 was a good example at an affordable price. In fact I had a 2000 Focus ZX3 in yellow prior to purchasing this car. I would consider a third if Ford still offered the car in this configuration.
The car came with a decent sound system and a good complement of extras like keyless entry and heated seats and mirrors. The only complaint I had was the AUX input for my iPod required an adaptor cable that my dealer could not provide.
The layout is user friendly and nice on the eyes. Reflections from the dash in the windshield are not a big problem.
On long highway trips I typically get well over 30 MPG - though it falls off a bit when driving locally.