MARKETING

Aside from the recalls and exploding police cruisers, Ford Motor Co. had a good summer, thanks to the juggernaut TV show, American Idol. Some 23 million viewers tuned in Sept. 4 to see the crowning of Texan Kelly Clarkson as the next wannabe pop superstar.

The real winner may be Ford, which showcased its Focus small car in a regular feature on the show called, “Focus on the Contestants.” Hopefully, Focus is no one-hit wonder.