Ford Focus ST: Full details
Updated hot hatch in the public eye for the first time at GoodwoodThe Festival of Speed at Goodwood has provided an ideal venue for the introduction of Ford's facelifted and dynamically upgraded Focus ST.
Adopting the cosmetic changes of the volume-selling Focus variants, the ST has also scored Recaro seats in a restyled cabin and revised underpinnings for improved handling and more communicative steering. The company claims to have simplified the cockpit layout and reduced the number of autonomous controls. Changes to the suspension comprise new front springs, and retuned dampers front and rear.
"Since its debut, Focus ST has been bringing our fun-to-drive DNA to the hot hatch segment with a uniquely Ford blend of driving dynamics, performance and style," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.
"Now, with improved dynamics, an updated suspension, new styling and a more sophisticated cabin, we expect the 2015 Focus ST will remain the hottest hatch worldwide."
Ford has revealed more concerning the diesel-powered ST introduced with this upgrade. According to Ford, the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel develops 136kW and 400Nm, for a 0-100km/h time of 8.1 seconds. While not confirmed yet, Ford Australia has intimated we are unlikely to see the diesel variant here.
The new Focus ST will be available (in the UK at least) in three trim levels – ST1, ST2 and ST3. While equipment naturally varies between the three grades, it's the seat upholstery that principally distinguishes them. ST1 models feature seats trimmed in a combination of grey, charcoal and anthracite black fabric; ST2 seats feature partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colors – Tangerine Scream, Performance Blue, Smoke Storm or Race Red; ST3 seats have full charcoal black leather finish.
Ford is claiming engine output figures that appear to be significantly higher than the numbers for the current Aussie-spec car. Peak output for the new car is 188kW at 5500rpm, and torque peaks at 366Nm at 2500 rpm. The engine continues to drive exclusively through a six-speed manual transmission.
The SYNC system on board incorporates SYNC AppLink with the facility to download over 60 different apps to suit Apple or Android phone users.
HID headlamps standard with ST2 and ST3 trim levels with Recaro seats
Standard LED signature lighting
18-inch Rado Gray alloy wheels standard
Available new 18-inch alloy wheel design with red painted brake calipers
New exterior color, Magnetic Metallic, replaces Ingot Silver
Two over-the-top stripe choices now available – Satin Black and High Gloss Red, stripes come with matching mirror skull caps
Redesigned instrument panel center stack with improved climate controls and new finishes
New center console with more storage space including a new media bin with USB smart charging port, which charges two times faster than previous USB port
Updated front door storage with cupholders
New flat-bottom steering wheel to provide extra leg clearance for the driver
Available heated steering wheel
Available eight-way power driver's seat
Revised steering for improved feel
Rear view camera standard
Enhanced driving dynamics
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