FORD has updated the popular Focus ST – and for the first time the new twelve model line-up includes diesel versions to take on Volkswagen’s Golf GTD. Prices for the revised range start at £22,195.
The most obvious changes though, are to the Focus ST’s exterior. Ford says the updated car has sportier and more aggressive styling than the out-going version, with a lower, wider stance, thanks to a new revised bonnet, slimmer headlamps and rectangular fog-lamps. All new Focus ST models have twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes.
Under the skin, there are new front springs, sportier shock absorber tuning front and rear, a recalibration of the variable ratio steering, tweaks to the Electronic Stability Programme settings and revisions to Ford’s electronic torque vectoring control system – all aimed at sharpening up the latest Focus ST’s handling.
The petrol-engined Focus ST continues to use Ford’s 250 PS turbocharged 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which is good for a maximum speed of 154 mph, although CO2 emissions are reduced by 10g/km to 159g.
The new diesel Focus ST, though emits only 110g/km. It churns out 185 PS and 400 Nm of torque (compared with 360 for the petrol) and a achieves a maximum speed of 135 mph.
Both engines deliver their power through a six-speed manual ‘box.
The familiar ST-1, ST-2, ST-3 trim hierarchy is carried over the the revised cars, with the ST-2 getting LED daytime running lights as standard. The ST-3 series gets a series of upgrades, including “Rock Metallic” alloys with red brake calipers, illuminated scuff plates, privacy glass, Ford’s SYNC 2 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, and cruise control with speed limiter.
More on the Ford Focus
Find out what we made of the face-lifted Ford Focus 1.0-litre Ecoboost Titanium here.
