2019 Ford Focus ST gets 276bhp 18 | 02 | 2019
FORD HAS UNVEILED its new Focus ST. Powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine — producing 276bhp at 5000rpm, and 420Nm between 3000rpm and 4000rpm — the ST will arrive at Scottish dealerships towards the end of summer. Expect prices to start around £27,500. (Related: Roadtest — Ford Focus RS)
The new MkIV ST range will include petrol and diesel models, plus five-door and Estate models. It’s likely the initial supply will feature only the range-topping ST-3 trim level. (Related: M-Sport reveals 2019 WRC livery)
Externally the ST is identifiable thanks to its bigger and more angled rear spoiler, unique alloy wheels, revised front grille, and the option of two exclusive colours: Ford Performance Blue and Orange Fury.
The interior benefits from Recaro sports seats, Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system — an eight-inch display incorporating navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality — plus metal flourishes on the vents and grey stitching, and aluminium pedals. Related: Ford reveals lightweight GT
Boasting a power increase of around 12% and 17% more torque than the previous iteration, Ford says the latest powerplant is the most free-revving Focus ST motor yet. The carmaker says the five-door MkIV ST will cover the 0-62mph sprint in less than six seconds; that’s at least half a second off the Mk3 ST’s figure.
This latest ST is also fitted with an anti-lag feature. The technology keeps the throttle open even when the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator, maintaining pressure to the turbo and improving response. This ST gets an electronic e-diff limited-slip differential and is available only on the petrol model. The system allows 100% of the torque to be delivered to the wheel that has traction, helping to boost acceleration out of corners.
The EcoBlue diesel ST delivers 187bhp and 400Nm of torque; that’s 10% more power and double the torque of the Mk1 ST170.
Sitting 10mm lower than the standard Focus, the ST range also benefits from dampers which have been stiffened by a fifth at the front and 13% at the rear, and all models are fitted with bespoke Michelin Sport Pilot 4S tyres. Worth mentioning too that the power steering is also now much sharper, requiring just two turns of the wheel, lock to lock.
All models get a six-speed manual gearbox, and comes with a 7% as standard shorter shift throw than in regular Focuses.
A Performance Pack — which includes Continuously Controlled Damping, plus a gearshift indicator light and rev-matching technology to help maintain momentum during downshifts — is available as an option.
Also available as an option is a seven-speed auto gearbox, but only for the petrol ST. In addition to being able to be controlled by paddles mounted behind the steering wheel, the system also assesses driving style and optimises gearshift timings accordingly.
Related: Mondeo gets facelift and hybrid estate
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Jim McGill