Ford Focus ST hits UK stores this autumn

The latest version of fast Ford fans’ favourite is equipped with a 250 PS, 2.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine, expected to achieve 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 154mph.

This uncompromising performance is complemented by enhanced dynamics and a comprehensive range of driver assistance features.

Using a tuned EcoBoost engine means Focus ST is expected to return 39 mpg and CO2 emissions of 169 g/km; a 20 per cent improvement over the previous Focus ST.

“This is the car that performance Ford fans across the world have been waiting for,” said Mark Ovendon, Ford Britain managing director.

“Our engineers have worked hard to make sure drivers will experience the true essence of what the ST badge represents – in Britain, or any of the 40 countries where this global performance car will be sold.”

The One Ford approach to delivering an all-new, global Ford Focus paved the way for the new Focus ST.

Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group established the DNA of the ST as a key part of its global performance car strategy following close collaboration between Ford Team RS in Europe, and the Special Vehicles Team (SVT) in the United States.

Ford engineers from the Asia-Pacific region also provided input to ensure all new ST models would please drivers in key Focus markets.

“It’s the same car everywhere, from the engine to the suspension to the styling – right down to the tyres,” said Dieter Schwarz, head of Ford Team RS.

“Now, you will be able to drive a Focus ST in Beijing and it will be the same dynamic experience as driving one in Los Angeles, London or Rome.”

“Our performance strategy is based on the fact that performance fans globally want the same thing,” added Schwarz.

“For the Focus ST, that means combining a rewarding driving experience with the ability to ride to work in comfort.”

The ST (Sport Technologies) badge was introduced first in Europe in 1997 and is reserved for sports-tuned variants of key Ford models.

Customers have come to appreciate that cars carrying the unique Ford ST badge balance high performance with real-world practicality and refinement.

New Focus ST is powered by a 250 PS version of Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine that delivers the power of a larger displacement unit with the fuel efficiency of a smaller engine.

It achieves this through a combination of high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging, and Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT), as well as redesigned intake and exhaust systems, and unique calibration.

The result is an engine which offers impressive, real-world performance, with strong torque levels and a broad, flat curve peaking at 360 Nm.

The Focus ST’s six-speed manual transmission produces maximum punch from each gear shift throw using specially-revised gearing.

The sixth gear helps drivers achieve excellent fuel economy on longer runs.

The engine also emits a distinctive soundtrack, engineered to be appreciated regardless whether heard from inside or outside the car.

For those in the car, a newly-enhanced sound symposer relays the engine sound directly from the intake into the cabin.

“This channels a really sporty note into the cabin,” said Matthias Tonn, chief programme engineer, Ford of Europe. “It leaves the driver in no doubt that this is a special car.

“The new Focus ST is improved over the previous European model in every department – and we had to ensure the sound was just as exciting for the driver too.”

The new Sport Steering System means the steering wheel can be turned to almost full lock without the driver needing to remove either hand to change position; providing more control through tight corners and hairpins.

The Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system has been specially calibrated for the new Focus ST and detects and counters torque steer.

The three trim levels available are called ST1, ST2 and ST3 and are priced at:

l New Focus ST £21.995.

l New Focus ST-2 £23.495.

l New Focus ST-3 £25.495.