American automakers try to claw back into important small-car market.

DEARBORN, Mich. - U.S. automakers pretty much ceded the small-car market to the Japanese during the past decade. Now, with consumers shifting toward more gas-thrifty models and the realization that a strong compact brings buyers to their brand, Detroit is trying to make yet another comeback. The revamped Ford Focus is now making its way to showrooms. Early next year, General Motors Corp. will offer a glimpse into its future small cars when it sends the Saturn Astra to dealerships, and more compacts are on the way.