Launch of the all-new Mustang lineup isn’t the only ‘heat’ from Ford this year – in fact the updated Focus ST hot hatch arrives on 1 May priced from $38,990.
The Ford Focus ST has received glowing praise in international media reviews and we’re keen on getting some seat time ASAP…the ST is one of our favourite cars. Period.
The updated look is lower and wider and first-up you’ll notice the more aggressive styling – reshaped bonnet, thinner headlights and new rectangular fog lights.
The ST bodykit of course contains side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the twin hexagonal centre exhausts and a roof spoiler.
Wheels are a new design 18-inch alloy.
Inside Ford has given the updated Focus RS a simpler layout but the hallmark ST elements are unchanged – the superb partial leather Recaro sports seats and extra bank of three gauges (turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature, oil pressure).
A key for the development team was even better driving dynamics for the ST and Ford Team RS got down to work, delivering new front springs, a firmer tune for both front and rear shock absorbers and stiffer bushes. The electronic power steering system has also been recalibrated.
And Ford’s SYNC2 connectivity system finds its way to Focus RS as part of a raft of new driver assistance and convenience systems. Control is via an eight-inch colour touchscreen or voice control.
An optional Technology Pack brings active city stop, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert, lane keeping aid, lane departure warning, driver impairment monitor and auto high-beam.
Of course the Ford Focus ST’s heart is that ripper 184kW/340Nm (360Nm with overboost) turbocharged 2.0-litre engine and the slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission.
File this one under ‘C’ for ‘can’t wait’.
