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DEFEND YOUR RIDE: Keith At The Westland Shopping Center

"The things I like far outweigh the things I don't like."

The Ride
The Driver: Keith
Vehicle in Question: 2009 Ford Focus SES Coupe
Spotted at: Westland Shopping Center, Westland, MI 48185
Odometer: 40,500
Car's Nickname: Amy Pond

THE DEFENSE

Q: Hi Keith. What are we looking at here?

A: I've got a 2009 Ford Focus SES coupe. I got it last December. I bought it from a friend of the family who was the original owner. They got it with about 80 miles on it. They gave me a really good deal on it.

Q: If they bought it with 80 miles on it, how many were on it when you bought it?

A: When I bought it, it had 31,500. Now it's at about 40,500. I drive a lot, about 300 miles a week because of work.

Q: You've put 9,000 on it in almost half a year?

A: That happens when you work multiple jobs. I drive more than most people. Usually I drive about 15,000 to 20,000 a year.

Q: What did you drive before this?

A: I had a 1999 Honda Accord. Before that I had a '95 Toyota Camry wagon.

Q: What made you choose a Ford Focus over another Honda?

A: I didn't really have a choice when picking the Honda. I didn't like it from the get-go. It was always needing one thing or another. It didn't get anywhere near the gas mileage that the Focus gets.

Q: This car looks pretty fancy. I'm really digging those little accent lights that the cup holders have. What's your favorite gadget on the car?

A: I really gotta say, the Ford Sync system is awesome. It's awesome for controlling my phone or iPod while driving, all hands free. I can switch between USB and Bluetooth just by talking. It's a much safer way to manage my things while driving.

Q: It seems that everything you have to say about this car is positive. Is there anything you don't like about it?

A: Going from the Honda, I lost some storage space. The Honda was bigger. I was able to fit more in there. Sometimes it's difficult to move equipment for work. It's been interesting trying to fit some gear in here. The things I like far outweigh the things I don't like.

Q: Any final thoughts, Keith?

A: I'd love to be able to customize the Sync system more. If I could choose the voice, that would be awesome. My car's nickname is Amy Pond from Dr. Who, so if I could choose a Scottish woman's voice, that'd be awesome.

Photos and interview by Don Gurka

View previous Defend Your Ride features as well as other great stories for people who love cars at detroit.cbslocal.com/Autos

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