The revived Focus ST builds on its class-leading status in both five-door hatch and estate body versions of the ‘Mark Four’ variant. Enhanced with unique suspension settings, braking and powertrain configurations for an even more responsive and agile driving experience, a new engine line-up creates up to 12% more power and 17% more torque than before. The aluminium 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine now develops 276bhp, while the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine kicks out a useful 187bhp.
Ford’s first application of a Borg-Warner developed, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) on a front-wheel drive vehicle enhances the ST’s cornering and stability using computer-controlled pre-emptive actuation. Gearbox choice of six-speed manual, or a new, quick-shifting, seven-speed automatic transmission, is offered, and Selectable Drive Modes technology is introduced to the ST for the first time. Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD; standard on EcoBoost models) enhances the independent rear suspension for maximum refinement.
The most free-revving Focus ST petrol engine can blitz from 0-60mph in around 5.6s and engine responsiveness is enhanced by the use of a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger. Innovative anti-lag technology, developed for both Ford GT supercar and F-150 Raptor pick-up models, is introduced to the Focus ST, for zestier performance in Sport and Track drive modes. It can be a little unnerving until familiarity occurs but it works, accompanied by exhaust ‘pops and bangs’.
On the other hand, the most potent diesel engine ever fitted to a Focus, delivers peak power at 3,500rpm for immediate, linear acceleration. Ford has improved the snappiness of its manual gearshift, with an even shorter shift throw. It can even feature rev-matching, if the optional Performance Pack is chosen for petrol models. Rev-matching enables less-experienced performance drivers to benefit from the seamless, momentum-maintaining gearshifts delivered by a ‘heel-and-toe’ driving technique, while also allowing experienced drivers to deactivate the system if preferred.
Adaptive Shift Scheduling features on the auto-box and drivers can also select gears manually, using the steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. The car demands only two turns from lock-to-lock of the much-revised steering system that is also virtually devoid of annoying torque steer. The similarly revised suspension settings that are designed to maximise the ST’s focus (sic.) also provide one of the most-connected front-ends of any car in the class.
As has become customary, the new Focus ST is packed with ‘electrickery’ that includes active cruise, lane-centring, adaptive front lighting, active parking assist, evasive steering assist and a head-up display. Connectivity is also on-point with simple linking to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Destined to go on sale this summer, prices have not (as yet) been established, although you can reckon that the petrol model will be priced at around £32,000, with the diesel carrying a small premium.
