The Ford Focus ST takes center stage as a performance hatchback that blends exhilarating driving dynamics with everyday practicality. This hot hatch, a staple in the Ford lineup, caters to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability.
The Focus ST targets drivers who appreciate the blend of power, handling, and practicality that a well-engineered hot hatch offers.
From its turbocharged engine that delivers impressive power and torque to its sharp handling that inspires confidence on winding roads, the Focus ST delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and rewarding. The Focus ST stands out with its blend of performance, features, and affordability, making it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a sporty and practical daily driver.
The Ford Focus ST: A Performance Hatchback That Delivers
The Ford Focus ST is a high-performance hatchback that has been a staple in the Ford lineup for over a decade. It combines sporty handling, powerful engine, and a practical design, making it a compelling choice for drivers who want a fun and functional vehicle.
The Focus ST targets enthusiasts who seek a balance between everyday practicality and thrilling performance, appealing to those who value driving engagement and a distinctive driving experience.
Performance and Handling
The Ford Focus ST is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic transmission, both of which deliver quick and responsive shifts.
The Focus ST’s acceleration is impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6 seconds. The handling is equally impressive, thanks to a well-tuned suspension and precise steering. The Focus ST feels planted and confident in corners, providing a thrilling and engaging driving experience.
The Focus ST’s performance is comparable to its competitors, such as the Honda Civic Si and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. While the Civic Si offers a more engaging manual transmission, the Focus ST’s turbocharged engine delivers more power and torque.
The Golf GTI, on the other hand, offers a more refined driving experience and a slightly more luxurious interior.
Design and Features
The Focus ST features a distinctive and sporty design that sets it apart from the standard Focus. The front end features a large grille with a honeycomb pattern, aggressive headlights, and a prominent lower bumper. The rear end is equally sporty, with a rear diffuser, a spoiler, and dual exhaust tips.
The Focus ST also rides on larger wheels and tires than the standard Focus, giving it a more aggressive stance.
The interior of the Focus ST is equally impressive, featuring comfortable and supportive sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a variety of technology features. The Focus ST comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Sport Seats | The Focus ST comes standard with supportive and comfortable sport seats that provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving. | Enhanced comfort and support during spirited driving. |
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, providing a premium feel and enhanced grip. | Improved grip and a premium feel. |
| 7-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System | The Focus ST features a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that provides access to a variety of features, including navigation, music, and phone connectivity. | Enhanced connectivity and entertainment options. |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration | The Focus ST’s infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones for navigation, music, and calls. | Improved smartphone integration and enhanced functionality. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | The Focus ST comes standard with automatic emergency braking, which helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if the system detects an imminent collision. | Enhanced safety and collision avoidance. |
| Lane Departure Warning | Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling. | Improved lane discipline and safety. |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Blind spot monitoring alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spots, helping to prevent accidents. | Enhanced safety and awareness. |
Driving Experience
The Focus ST’s driving experience is exhilarating. The turbocharged engine provides ample power and torque, making it fun to drive on winding roads. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The steering is precise and responsive, giving the driver a sense of control.
The Focus ST’s ride quality is comfortable enough for daily driving, but it can get a bit stiff on rough roads. The cabin is relatively quiet, even at highway speeds, and the seats are comfortable for long drives. Overall, the Focus ST offers a well-rounded driving experience that is both engaging and practical.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
The Focus ST’s fuel economy is respectable for a performance hatchback. The EPA estimates that the Focus ST gets 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. While these figures are not class-leading, they are still acceptable for a car with this level of performance.
The Focus ST also offers a decent amount of cargo space, with 23.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This is enough room for groceries, luggage, and other everyday items.
The Focus ST’s fuel efficiency is comparable to its competitors, such as the Honda Civic Si and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. The Civic Si gets slightly better fuel economy, while the Golf GTI offers similar fuel efficiency. In terms of practicality, the Focus ST offers a good balance of cargo space and passenger room, making it a viable option for daily driving and weekend trips.
Price and Value
The Ford Focus ST starts at an MSRP of around $30,000. This price includes a variety of standard features, including a turbocharged engine, a six-speed manual transmission, sport seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The Focus ST also offers a variety of optional features, such as a sunroof, navigation, and a premium sound system.
These options can increase the price of the Focus ST to around $35,000.
The Focus ST offers good value for the money, especially when compared to other performance hatchbacks. The Focus ST’s price is competitive with its rivals, and it offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and practicality. The long-term ownership costs of the Focus ST are also reasonable, with maintenance and insurance costs being in line with other compact cars.
Modifications and Customization, Ford focus st
The Focus ST is a popular car among enthusiasts, and there are a wide variety of aftermarket parts and accessories available for it. Common modifications include performance upgrades, such as exhaust systems, intakes, and turbochargers. These modifications can significantly increase the Focus ST’s horsepower and torque output.
Other popular modifications include suspension upgrades, wheels and tires, and cosmetic enhancements, such as body kits and spoilers.
Modifying the Focus ST can enhance its performance and aesthetics, but it’s important to do your research and choose reputable parts and installers. Modifications can also affect the vehicle’s warranty, so it’s essential to be aware of the potential implications before making any changes.
Competition
The Ford Focus ST faces stiff competition in the performance hatchback segment. Some of its key rivals include:
| Competitor | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Price (MSRP) | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic Si | 1.5L Turbocharged I4 | 205 hp | 192 lb-ft | $27,000 | More engaging manual transmission, slightly better fuel economy. |
| Volkswagen Golf GTI | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 228 hp | 258 lb-ft | $30,000 | More refined driving experience, slightly more luxurious interior. |
| Hyundai Veloster N | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 275 hp | 260 lb-ft | $30,000 | More powerful engine, sharper handling, sporty design. |
| Mazda3 Turbo | 2.5L Turbocharged I4 | 250 hp | 320 lb-ft | $29,000 | Premium interior, sharp handling, good fuel economy. |
Final Wrap-Up
The Ford Focus ST emerges as a compelling choice for drivers seeking a performance hatchback that delivers both thrills and practicality. Its potent engine, sharp handling, and well-rounded features make it a standout option in a competitive segment. Whether you’re seeking a fun weekend car or a daily driver that can handle a spirited commute, the Focus ST offers a compelling package that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.