Ford Focus ST hot hatch 08 | 07 | 2019
THE ALL-NEW FORD Focus ST hot hatch is now on-sale at Scottish dealerships, with prices starting at £29,495 for an entry-level diesel hatchback. The petrol starts at £31,995. Going head-to-head with the likes of the Honda Civic Type R and the outgoing VW Golf GTI, the Focus ST range tops-out with the estate at £33,095. (Related: Roadtest — Ford Focus RS)
Just at home pottering around town, blasting cross-country or maxing out on-track, the ST is available with the choice of two engines, a diesel and a petrol. While the diesel uses Ford’s 187bhp 2.0-litre EcoBlue, the petrol is powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo, much like the current Mustang and previous-generation Focus RS. (Related: Ford launches new scrappage scheme)
Pumping out 276bhp and 310lb/ft to the front wheels, buyers have the choice of either a sporty six-speed manual or a seven-speed auto ‘boxIn manual form it’ll scam,per from standstill to 62mph in 5.7secs and carry on to a max of 155mph. At the pumps, Ford says the pearl hatch ST will return 35.8mpg and emit 179g/km CO2. (Related: Fiesta ST Ford Performance Edition)
Focusing on the petrol, that power delivery is aided by what Ford says is the first front-wheel drive electric limited-slip differential it’s ever made. Developed by Borg-Warner, the eLSD can shift all of the power to either wheel, and Ford says it is much more precise and responsive than a traditional mechanical one. The diesel ST using torque vectoring by braking instead of the eLSD.
Buyers can further improve the handling and performance of the ST by adding the optional £800 Performance Pack. This adds launch control, adaptive dampers, rev-matching for the petrol manual versions, a Track mode for the mode selector, and red brake calipers. (Related: Ford reveals 2019 Kuga plug-in hybrid)
Inside the cabin, it’s instantly identifiable as a Focus, but with the addition of some sporty touches, including ‘standard-fit- Recaro seats with grey stitching and thick bolsters. There’s also a chunky metal gearknob and metal pedals, plus a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The options list also includes a number of safety and tech add-ons, including a ‘segment first’ evasive steering assist in emergencies, plus adaptive cruise and a head-up display.
As for colours, top of the list includes Performance Blue and Orange Fury; the latter is the same shade of orange you can get on the Mustang, and we love it.
Related: Exclusive Interview — Ford UK boss Andy Barratt
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/Scotcars
Jim McGill