Introducing the Ford Focus ST
Since 1998, the Ford Focus has been the textbook family hatchback. Spacious, good-looking, affordable and engaging to drive. The Focus has gained a reputation for quality and reliability.
So, in 2002 when Ford announced they were giving the Focus the fast Ford treatment, it was only going to get better for the Focus success story.
It's no secret that the UK loves a hot hatchback, and with the Focus already being a top seller, giving it more power, performance and style was another masterstroke from Ford.
The Focus ST is in its fourth generation and offers a handsome route into hot hatch ownership.
Engines and Performance
The Focus ST is powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which produces 276bhp and 308lb ft of torque. You can decide between a 6-speed manual gearbox, or a 7-speed automatic transmission.
Regardless of your choice, the Focus ST will achieve 0 to 62mph in 5.7 seconds, and has a top speed of 155mph. Despite the performance available, the Focus ST can achieve circa 34mpg with mixed driving.
The performance exhaust system makes the Focus ST even more fun to drive enthusiastically. It offers a throaty note without being overly intruding, whilst also providing pops and crackles on overrun, for added driving enjoyment.
Chassis and Handling
The standard Ford Focus is recognised for its fine drive and superb handling characteristics, but the ST takes the driving experience even further thanks to suspension that has been lowered 10mm.
The suspension is also stiffened for a tighter chassis, complemented by 19-inch alloy wheels with performance tyres; providing the Focus ST with superior levels of grip.
Handling is improved further still in Sport and Track modes, with these modes working in conjunction with the limited slip differential, keeping it firmly locked for improved on-track performance.
The damping is unsurprisingly firm, but it's beautifully judged, giving the Focus ST the poise and interaction that a hot hatch needs in order to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
Technology and Drive Modes
As with many new Ford models, the Focus ST is loaded with clever tech to keep you entertained on long journeys, whilst ensuring every trip is safe, convenient and enjoyable.
Ford SYNC 4 Navigation with DAB and a 13.2-inch touchscreen are central to each journey, meaning navigating to any destination is a doddle, thanks to voice recognition. The Focus ST also comes with heated front seats and steering wheel, a rear view camera, and parking sensors all-round.
Useful driver aids, such as lane-keeping aid with lane-keeping assist, pre-collision assist with autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, make sure safety isn't forgotten about either.
It wouldn't be a modern hot hatch if there weren't any driving modes on offer. Available modes available include:
- Normal
- Sport
- Track
- Slippery/Wet
Focus ST Adjustable Track Pack
The Ford Focus ST is impressive as it is, but Ford Performance's adjustable Track Pack takes the latest iteration of the iconic hatchback to new heights. After rigorous testing on the notorious Nürburgring Nordschleife, the Track Pack is now exclusively available on 5-door, 6-speed manual versions of the Focus ST, for ultimate driver engagement.
Loaded with performance-orientated features such as an adjustable coilover suspension system, lighter alloy wheels, and brakes that are 10 percent larger than those found on the standard ST, drivers are able to fine-tune their car to suit their driving style in a myriad of ways.
Bespoke aesthetic differences ensure Track Pack-equipped cars are instantly recognisable, with Agate Black touches spread across the car's exterior, as well as more subtle touches including outlined ST badges and red brake calipers.
With 276bhp, 310lb ft of torque, and a twin-scroll turbocharger with anti-lag technology, this is a serious machine when out on track.
Focus ST Models
ST
Key features:
- 12.3" Full Digital Cluster
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Keyless Entry and Keyless Start
- Rear View Camera
- Cruise Control inc. Adjustable Speed Limiter
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Lane-Keeping Aid with Lane-Keeping Assist
- Unique ST sport suspension with Limited Slip Differential
Test drive the Ford Focus ST
As family cars go, the Ford Focus has always been a textbook answer. The overall package is very good, and offers everything you could ever need.
Enhanced looks, sportier characteristics and of course more power and performance from the ST take an already attractive package and boost its appeal, without having to sacrifice practicality in the process.
If you're looking for an excellent day-to-day hatchback, that can be both comfortable and exciting to drive, look no further than the Focus ST. Contact your local Evans Halshaw Ford retailer today to find out more.
