Test Car Specifications
Model tested: Ford Focus ST3 Hatch
Pricing: starts at £22,195; as tested was £25,995
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol
Transmission: front-wheel drive, six-speed manual
Body style: five-door hatchback
CO2 emissions: 159g/km (Band G, £180 per year)
Combined economy: 41.5mpg
Top speed: 154mph
0-62mph: 6.5 seconds
Power: 250hp at 5,500rpm
Torque: 360Nm at 2,000- to 4,500rpm
What's this?
It's the facelifted Ford Focus ST, resplendent in its new styling front and back, an improved interior, more equipment and what appear to be comparatively modest updates to the engine and chassis. The headline news is the introduction of a diesel engine to the line-up, so now buyers can choose petrol or diesel, five-door hatchback or estate, depending on their needs. The purchase price doesn't really come into the equation either, as the petrol and diesel variants cost the same. As ever, UK buyers can choose between ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim lines, and prices start at £22,195, which is about a hundred quid less than before. The vast majority opt for the ST3 and ST2 specifications, and that's set to continue, though Ford expects 50 per cent of ST buyers to go for diesel power. Here we test the petrol model.
How does it drive?
If you glance at the tech specs you'll see that the basic recipe for the Focus ST is unchanged. It's powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine as before and maximum power and torque outputs are the same as before. However, a recalibration of the ECU, plus some modification of the intake system, have led to what feels like better response to throttle input now, without any delay at low engine speeds. Despite that it retains a chunky torque curve in the mid-range so arguably there's no need for any gear other than third.
Which is a shame, as the six-speed manual gearbox is smooth and slick. It, and the distinctive engine note (utilising a sound symposer), combine to encourage the driver to perfect blipping of the throttle on downshifts. The pedals are well-spaced to allow this and their weighting is perfect. The brakes in particular are easy to accurately modulate and were fade-free in our test on challenging mountain roads in Spain.
The Focus ST still struggles to put all of its torque down cleanly at times, especially on a wet road, but Ford has improved things. Along with wide-ranging tweaks to the suspension components themselves, the electric power steering system has had a recalibration. The result is a noticeable lack of torque steer as you power through a corner, even when there is a dearth of traction, so the steering wheel doesn't writhe about in your hands. Sure, the wheels can spin up if you're clumsy with the throttle, but in general, it's better controlled than before. So much so that there's no fear in selecting the ESC Sport mode, as its loosened reins allow the ST to flow a little more naturally.
We'll reserve judgement on the ride comfort until we test the new Focus on UK roads, but initial signs are good - even on the stylish 19-inch alloy wheels and lower profile tyres that come with the popular Style option.
Verdict
When we tested the new Focus in its standard format last year we said it had the potential to knock the Volkswagen Golf off its pedestal as the best car in the C-segment. The newly formed Ford Performance division seems to have done it again with the new Focus ST, targeting the everyday usability, quality and comfort of the Golf GTI while adding an extra dollop of enjoyment to proceedings. The new model is certainly more than just a pretty new face.
Exterior Design
Interior Ambience
Passenger Space
Luggage Space
Safety
Comfort
Driving Dynamics
Powertrain
