Ford Focus ST boasts extra performance
The new-generation Ford Focus ST is promising drivers a “Jekyll-and-Hyde” experience with its ability to switch between touring and performance modes at the push of a button.
Boasting more power and technology, the vehicle has been developed under the leadership of Ford Performance and is now available to consumers in New Zealand.
It is based on the new Focus’ C2 platform and comes with automatic transmission for the first time. The Focus ST also features selectable drive modes and a 2.3L turbocharged engine.
“The new seven-speed auto with paddle shift opens the doors for so many new customers,” says Simon Rutherford, managing director of Ford New Zealand.
“Combined with the Fiesta ST for 2020, the Focus ST completes a full suite of Ford Performance hot hatches available in New Zealand.” The Focus ST builds on the innovation and tech leadership of the new-generation Focus … and delivers a highly capable, exhilarating yet very liveable performance hatch.”
The Focus ST is imported from Germany and offers increased cabin space, cargo capacity and a 20 per cent increase in torsional rigidity over the outgoing model.
On the technology front, it boasts continuously controlled damping (CCD) and an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD).
Leo Roeks, Ford Performance director, Europe, says engineers incorporated learnings from programs including its GT supercar and the Focus RS to develop the mid-size performance car.
“Intelligent technologies like eLSD and CCD make our new-generation Focus ST the most ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ yet, able to switch from refined tourer to focused performance car at the push of a button,” he adds.
The turbocharged powertrain delivers 206kW of power at 5,500 rpm – an increase of 22kW over the previous Focus ST – and torque jumps from 360Nm previously to 420Nm.
Anti-lag technology developed for the Ford GT supercar and F-150 Raptor pick-up is introduced to the Focus ST, promising immediate power delivery in sport and track drive modes. Anti lag keeps the throttle open when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal, alleviating the reversal of air flow from the turbocharger to maintain compressor wheel speed and enabling boost pressure to build faster on demand.
Different drive modes – slippery, normal, sport and track – optimise the Focus ST’s capabilities for road or track conditions, and there is a dedicated button on the steering wheel that gives direct access to sport mode.
The Focus ST comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, fitted with 235/35 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, and suspension that lowers ride height by 10mm over the standard Focus model.
It has a honeycomb front grille, with LED adaptive headlight and taillights featuring LED daytime running lights, and an integrated spoiler caps off the exterior changes.
Colour options for the vehicle include Ford Performance Blue and Orange Fury, alongside Frozen White, Race Red, Agate Black, and Magnetic, which is grey.
Inside, drivers will find heated Recaro sports seats trimmed in leather and suede, Ford Performance instrumentation is standard, and a flat-bottom heated ST steering wheel houses audio and SYNC 3 controls.
Other technological features are a high-definition 8.0-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability, wireless smartphone charging as standard, keyless entry and push-button engine start, and dual-zone climate control.
Safety measures for the Focus ST include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot information system, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, dynamic stability control and a 180-degree full-colour, high-definition rear-view camera.
Pricing starts from $59,490.
