Farewell to the Exhilarating Ford Focus ST: A Retrospect on its Adrenaline-Pumping Journey
Street Beasts: The Farewell Ride of the Ford Focus ST
Here's a look at the Ford Focus ST, a blend of performance and practicality, before it bids adieu.
In the '80s and '90s, Ford dominated the hot hatch market with the Fiesta XR2 and the Escort RS Cosworth. Then came the RS-branded Focus, followed by the softer ST trim. Over four generations, the Focus ST offered a dose of hooliganism—from vivid color palettes to potent engines—with each model gradually refining its aggressively styled exterior.
As we bid farewell to the Focus ST, I took a week to drive the track-focused ST Edition in Azure Blue. My journey led me through challenging roads and potholed towns in Scotland.
Track cars are often synonymous with over-the-top power outputs and roll cages, but the ST Edition is different. Instead, it features lighter flow-form alloys, two-way adjustable coilovers, massive Brembo brakes, and a 10mm drop in ride height, catering to its corner-attacking prowess. The deep bucket seats comfortably hold the two front occupants, while backseat passengers must survive tight corners on their own.
The interior is usable, if not particularly luxurious. Switches for climate, traction control, and radio can be found below the 13.2-inch touchscreen. The button-littered steering wheel softens the blow of having to fiddle with digital menus.
Press the start button, and the ST's turbocharged four-cylinderengine awakens with a low growl. Once settled under 1,000 rpm, Ford Performance logos fill the screens, bringing a delightful sense of childish glee.
Below 30 mph, the ST retains a surprising civility; however, at higher speeds, the 50%-enhanced suspension makes it crash across drain covers, with deep potholes potentially causing a sore back.
In a world filled with faster, more aggressive hatchbacks, the Focus ST stands out due to Ford's unyielding spirit of can-do attitude. Ford's engineers didn't shy away from creating a road car with rally fizz— why not?
The decision has been made; Ford is discontinuing the Focus production by November 2025, focusing on electrification. Until then, you can still order the ST and ST Edition, or opt for a used example. Adieu, Focus ST.
Matthew MacConnellMatthew MacConnell is a motoring journalist, having contributed to Forbes, Fleet World, The Drive, and Classic Car Weekly, amongst others. He also has a keen interest in vans, trucks, and electric bikes.
(Enrichment Data)The Ford Focus ST Edition is a vehicle that caters to both sporty performance and everyday usability. Here are its key specifications:
Engine and Performance
- Under the hood lies a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing around 275 to 276 horsepower.
- Torque output is about 310 lb-ft.
- A 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.7 seconds is possible.
- A top speed of close to 155 mph.
- Offers both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Driving Dynamics
- Suspension adjustment prioritizes nimble handling and good cornering ability.
- Enhanced damping and reduced body roll contribute to better handling and safety.
- Precise and well-weighted steering improves driver confidence.
Design and Features
- Sharper styling elements, unique alloy wheels, and red interior stitching distinguish the ST from non-performance trims.
- The ST Line variant offers a slightly less extreme performance-oriented design.
- Enhanced chassis rigidity, lower ride height, and aggressive aerodynamics intensify the driving experience.
Safety and Technology
- Includes the following as standard:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- A 360-degree camera, parking sensors, and automated parking are available in higher trims.
(For those eager for even more thrills, the ST Edition may come equipped with added racing features such as heavy-duty anti-roll bars, stiffer springs, larger brakes, and a front strut brace.)
In this fast-evolving automotive industry, the discontinuation of Ford's Focus production has financial implications for the garden furniture sector. One might assume that more people opting for the spacious backseats of used Focus ST models could lead to a surge in demand for portable outdoor tables and seating, creating a unique niche for garden furniture businesses. Furthermore, the Focus ST's demise could impact the transportation sector, as future owners considering track-focused vehicles might require reliable transportation options to reach racing events, potentially increasing the demand for efficient, compact automotive alternatives like city cars or even electric bikes, an interest Matthew MacConnell already has.
