The new Focus ST makes its global debut today at the Goodwood Festival of Speed – the ideal location to showcase the speed and enhanced driving dynamics of the global performance car.
The most advanced Focus ST yet offers new chassis control technologies, tuned suspension and steering, and bespoke tyre specification that ensure an even more responsive, balanced and refined driving experience. And for the first time, it will be offered with the choice to two powerful engines – one petrol and diesel.
The first diesel Focus ST takes day-to-day usability and sportiness to a new level by delivering the most fuel‑efficient and lowest CO2 Ford performance car ever; 185PS 2.0‑litre TDCi achieves 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds, 64.2 mpg and 114 g/km CO2.*
For customers who prefer petrol, the 250PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, fuel efficiency of 41.5 mpg and 158 g/km CO2. Both models offer Auto-Start-Stop for the first time that improves the EcoBoost version’s fuel efficiency by 6 per cent and help make it the most fuel-efficient petrol Focus ST ever.
Ford Team RS, the award-winning European arm of Ford’s Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the number one objective for the new Focus ST.
The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier new shock absorber tuning front and rear. In combination with the model-specific anti-roll bars and rear springs from the previous generation ST, these enhancements deliver an even sharper dynamic performance.
The calibration of the Electronic Power Assisted Steering and electronic vehicle control systems also has been revised to meet the specific sporting requirements of the new Focus ST.
The new 185PS 2.0-litre diesel engine that debuts in the new Focus ST has been optimised to deliver ST performance and character alongside fuel efficiency and everyday practicality.
The increased power output of the Focus ST 2.0-litre TDCi – a 23 per cent gain over the 150PS 2.0-litre engine in the new Focus range – is achieved by electronic calibration, a revised air intake system and a new sports-tuned exhaust.
Peak power is developed at 3,500 rpm and there is 400Nm of torque available from 2,000-2,750 rpm, enabling the new Focus ST diesel to achieve a maximum speed of 135mph. The torque output enables impressive in-gear acceleration and strong performance at low rpm. In 6th gear, acceleration from 50-75mph takes just 9.7 seconds in sixth gear, the combination of a shorter ratio and the increased power enabling the Focus ST to outpace the 150PS Focus by 2.2 seconds.
Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing technology, and high-pressure direct-injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak power is available at 5,500 rpm, 360Nm of torque is available from 2,000-4,500 rpm, and maximum speed is 154mph.
Both engines use a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shift. The gear ratios – exclusive to ST and matched individually to each engine – deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed.
The new Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted bonnet; slimmer headlamps and rectangular foglamps.
The sports bodykit also includes body‑coloured side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimised for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes.
Black lamp bezels, ST badging and new 19-inch ST Design alloy wheels – that are available as an option – complete the look.
“Focus ST has proved very popular with Ford’s sporty customers and the new model takes that to an even more striking and dramatic level,” said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. “The signature honeycomb upper grille has been reproportioned, there are new rectangular fog lamps in the outer apertures, and the lower fascia offers a much sharper definition and profile. At the rear, the width of the car is emphasised by a new full-width graphic.”
A new dark grey exterior paint colour called Stealth is introduced exclusively to the Focus ST. Deep Impact Blue also is new to the range that includes Tangerine Scream, Frozen White, Panther Black and Race Red.
Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout that also is simpler, with a clearer visual connection between the key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin.
An additional bank of three gauges – an ST hallmark – is situated on the instrument binnacle and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim; a satin chrome-topped gear lever; and ST pedals deliver the interior that ST drivers expect.
Satin chrome door grab handles and illuminated aluminium scuff plates add extra touches of refinement, and sports seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, and also are comfortable for every day driving.
The new Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature grey/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colours (Tangerine Scream; Performance Blue; Smoke Storm or Race Red); ST3 seats have a full charcoal black leather finish.
