2013 Ford Focus ST: Possibly The Best Ever?
On paper Ford’s third generation Focus ST claims to accommodate both the casual daily driver and the performance craving petrol head. The question is does the new hot hatch from Ford succeed in its quest to please all.
Initial disappointment at Ford’s decision to drop the 2.5-litre engine in favour of a 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine is soon overcome thank’s to a significantly increased bhp of 247 which provides the thrill of 0-62 in an exhilarating 6.5 seconds. Only available in a 6 speed manual, the third generation Ford Focus ST also boasts improved running costs when compared to its two petrol hungry predecessors. The new model returns 39.2 mpg combined – its predecessor did a mere 25 mpg.
Only available in a practical 5 door due to low take up of the second generation 3 door version, the new Focus ST outperforms its closest rival, the Golf GTI and out sells it to by a ratio of more than two to one.
On offer is a choice of six body colours including the ST exclusive Performance Blue and Tangerine Scream. The Ford Focus ST is differentiated from the standard Focus with the addition of a sporty body kit and a more refined version of Ford’s new signature front grill, while a stylish rear spoiler helps keep the car firmly on the road at high speeds. The car’s tasteful exterior styling culminates in a striking centre-exit exhaust pipe which arguably makes it the best looking ST ever.
Inside you’ll find a continuation of the sports influenced design with figure hugging Recaro sports seats, red trimmed dials, instruments and gauges. Other design details include a leather-trimmed steering wheel, leather gearshift and alloy pedals.
On the road prices start from £22,000 which is several thousand less than its main rivals. For your money you’ll get Ford’s new Microsoft powered SYNC technology which gives you the freedom to control your music and mobile via voice commands. 18 inch alloy wheels, intelligent access with push to start, leather wrapped steering wheel and fog lamps are also included as standard.
Ford’s ST2 pack ads a premium Sony audio system, HD radio, automatic climate control and Recaro partial leather seats. If you have the money to go all the way then the range topping Ford Focus ST3 pack comes with Sat Nav, HID headlights, ambient lighting, heated mirrors and Recaro full leather heated seats.
Safety wise the Ford Focus ST not only holds a five-star NCAP crash test rating but also benefits from a whole host of award winning safety enhancing technology such as traction and stability control systems and a tyre pressure monitor in addition to plenty of air bags.
Improved running costs, five doors and a reasonable price combined with the performance of a 2.0-litre, 247 bhp engine create a practical hot hatch that should manage to achieve its goal of appealing to a wider audience. The new Ford Focus ST is now available at Ford Stoneacre.
