The ST badge stands for Sport Technologies
There is no doubt that €35,000 plus is a crazy amount of money to fork out for a Ford Focus ST but oh boy ……… we reckon it’s worth it!
What is it? This is not your average Focus, this one has undergone radical surgery and boasts Sports Technologies (ST). It is the third generation Ford Focus ST and in keeping with all things green and lean it is lighter, faster and more fuel efficient than before.
Who is it aimed at? This the ultimate Focus ST, is for the ultimate fast Ford fan.
Styling? Ford Fans will spot the ST instantly but others will miss the sporty touches. The roof spoiler, black grille with an ST badge and twin exhausts contribute to the aggressive look of the car but are subtle enough that it doesn’t stand out that much from the regular model. For those who do want to be noticed opt for a bold colour, Tangerine Scream should do the trick and make it easier to spot at the supermarket!
Under the Bonnet Press the start button and there’s a thrilling growl from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. The last Focus ST had a 2.5 litre engine but this time the boffins in Ford have managed to squeeze more power from this smaller engine and it zips through 0-100km in 6.5 seconds.
What about Inside? Slip behind the extra-thick steering wheel and the Recaro sports seats grip you snugly, possible too snugly for some but we loved them; comfortable and supportive in equal measure. There are a trio of gauges displaying turbo boost pressure and oil pressure and temperature and sporty details throughout. From a practical perspective, the ST delivers as much space as the regular version so for drivers with families but the desire for a hot hatch it fits both bills equally well.
Inside there is a specially-designed steering wheel, gearshift and pedals
On the Road? Take the ST on a twisting road and the grip is supreme, it simply sticks to the road and even at low engine speed it summons power at will. Built to race the steering is razor sharp and the gears silky smooth. The suspension is firm but never harsh; occupants are left shaken rather than stirred! This is a car which remains completely composed and inspires confidence at the wheel.
And Safety? The Focus ST is equipped with the latest in driver assistance and safety technologies.
including features like driver, passenger, side curtain and side airbags, Anti-lock braking system with EBD and emergency brake assist, Hill Launch Assist, Dynamic Stability Control and front and rear sensors
Options? There are two versions to choose from the ST and ST2 with prices starting at €36,800. The Standard ST has Ford Power keyless start, sporty Recaro seats, Bluetooth and 18” alloy wheels. Upgrade to the ST2 version and you get the new Ford SYNC system. Developed in conjunction with Microsoft the systems allows you to control your music and phone with simple voice commands, it can even read out your text messages!
What about fuel economy? On a combined cycle of city and motorway the ST returns 7.2 litres per 100Km although we never managed to get near that figure during our week driving it. CO2 emissions of 169g/km mean the annual motor tax bill is in excess of €500.
Okay so the Verdict? Ford know a thing or two about making humble cars go fast and the Focus ST does not disappoint. There are few cars that can be so sensible and so much fun. Around town it is surprisingly comfortable and practical and perfectly civil but it’s on twisted back roads that the ST comes into its own. It is simply stunning to drive. The Focus ST is for those who want a hot hatch with room for the kids plus luggage.
Why you’ll buy one? Performance; Price; Space
Why you won’t? The new VW Golf GTi is just around the corner
Rivals:
Mini John Cooper Works GP €47,040
Renaultsport Mégane €35,990
Engine: 1,999cc EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine putting out 250bhp @ 5,500rpm and 360Nm of torque from 1,750rpm.
Max speed: 248km/h.
0-100 kph: 6.5 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 169g/km (€ 570)
Model price range: €36,800 – 39,100
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 7.2l/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 316 (1101)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4362mm
Width: 1858mm
Height:1484 mm
Wheelbase: 2648mm
For more information check out ford.ie or the Ford Ireland Facebook page.
24th April, 2013
