Frankfurt: Ford Focus ST
Monday 19 September 2011
• Estate version for the first time
• 247bhp and 265lb/ft of pulling power
• Economy boosted by 20 per cent
The Ford Focus ST hot hatch will be available as an estate for the very first time.
The shock announcement at an exclusive event ahead of the Frankfurt motor show came as Ford’s bosses also revealed a hatchback version of the popular performance car.
It marks the introduction of Ford’s first performance car to be sold around the world, with only the smallest changes made to suit individual markets. There’s no word on an even hotter RS model yet, although it’s likely to be introduced around 2015 as the third generation Focus approaches its retirement.
Does it look good?
Yes. Both models get bespoke bumpers , side skirts and spoilers and are fitted with an evolution of the old ST’s 18-inch Y-shaped alloys, which can be specified in black. The colours in our pictures are Tangerine Scream yellow and Race Red, although Performance Blue and White are also available. Inside, bespoke pedals and steering wheel join unique Recaro seats front and back and a trio of extra gauges on top of the dash.
How fast is it?
Ford hasn’t announced performance figures yet, but the 2-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine produces a heady 247bhp and 265lb/ft of pulling power – 25bhp and 26lb/ft more than the old model. Expect a 0-62mph time of around six seconds and a top speed nudging 155mph. It’s unlikely there will be much difference in the performance of the two bodystyles, unless estate drivers are carrying a dog in the back…
Will it be as much fun as the old Focus ST?
Drivers mourning the loss of the operatic five-cylinder engine in the old car will be pleased the sound symposer from the old ST, RS and RS500 has been modified to make the new four-cylinder engine sound the part.
The car is equipped with Ford’s Sport Steering System which varies the sensitivity of the steering, a Torque Steer Compensation system which will keep the car straight and true under acceleration, Torque Vectoring which brakes the inside wheel during cornering and lowered suspension. The rear suspension fitted to the estate is slightly different, although Ford says both will have the same handling characteristics.
How much will it cost me to buy and run?
It’ll cost less to fuel and tax than the old thirsty 2.5-litre car. Ford says fuel consumption and CO2 emissions will be reduced by around 20 per cent over the old car, so reckon on fuel consumption around 36mpg and emissions close to 180g/km.
By Stuart Milne, deputy web editor