Ford Focus ST is usually seen as a softer version of the amazingly quick RS but the recent model has a 2.0 litre engine boosting 246bhp making it a raging bull. It also makes way for an even more bonkers RS. This Focus is quick and handles superbly well but that doesn’t mean it’s not a daily use vehicle. It offers a perfect compromise between speed and slow jamming around the city centre making it a perfect ride. Renault Sports Megane is just for someone who likes speed and Mazda 3 MPS hasn’t gone down well with those looking for sporty characteristics, but Ford Focus ST is fun and unique as it also has an estate version, which makes it the only mid-sized performance hatchback to have one. By offering an estate version, Ford has made the Focus favorite for families wanting to have a fun ride as well as extra space.
Ford has kept the prices for the Focus very competitive and they beat the likes of VW Golf GTi. The Focus ST is based on the very impressive Ford Focus which has everything a driver need: good handling, quality equipment levels, value and practicality. The ST doesn’t only match these qualities but adds real excitement to it. It may be not so light on the pocket but every penny is well spent. The Ford Focus ST is offered in three variations: ST, ST-2 and ST-3 but the basic ST has enough under its sleeves keeping most drivers happy. It comes equipped with 18-inch alloys, manual air-conditioning, keyless start, DAB radio, Bluetooth, USB connection, Thatcham alarm and Recaro cloth seats. Its 18-inch alloys give it a real road presence and that is just the basic model. It is certainly an impressive machine.
Car lovers will love the 0-62mph time in 6.5 seconds which isn’t much slower than the last generation RS which could do the same figure in 6.0 seconds. The engine in this car is a 2.0-litre Ecoboost petrol giving 246bhp and maxing out at 340Nm with a top speed of 154mph. The stats tell us just a little part of the story, as it is not only fast on papers but it also feels fast. The performance speaks for itself as sheer brutality meets smooth driving. The amazing engine sound is very addictive. However it lets itself down with its electronic power assisted steering wheel. It isn’t much responsive and feels rubbery. This is the only complaint regarding the Focus ST. Although it is low on feel but it responds well in turns and is of good weight. The grip is superb as it shows its true excellent colours on twisty roads. The body control is fantastic and a little lean on tighter corners.
It comes equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox which is smooth and the brakes are solid too. The Ford Focus ST comes with torque vectoring control which applies brake torque to the inside wheels in the corner increasing grip. It also has Cornering Under Steer Control which helps the car stuck to the road. The only competitor that beats it in handling is the Renault sport Megane. For all this equipment and excellent handling, the Focus is surprisingly not expensive to buy and own, it is at the same price as Volkswagen Golf range. The cheapest ST3 model is nearly GBP1,000 cheaper than the similar Golf GTi and has more features. However, it will depreciate more than the Golf but after some search you can get a good second-hand Ford Focus deal. High level of depreciation is equalled by low insurance costs and an excellent after sale service across the range. This latest Focus only improves Ford’s already established reputation for building superb driving machines.
