New-gen Ford Performance Focus ST
The new-generation Ford Focus ST, developed under the leadership of Ford Performance, brings New Zealanders the most advanced, capable Focus ST to date with more power and technology.
Based on the new-generation Focus’ C2 platform, the Focus ST will be offered with automatic transmission for the first time. In addition to expanded selectable drive modes, there’s new technology including continuously controlled damping (CCD), an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD), and 2.3-litre turbocharged engine.
“The new seven-speed auto with paddle-shift opens the doors for so many new customers,” says Simon Rutherford, managing director, Ford New Zealand. “Combined with the Fiesta ST for 2020, the Focus ST completes a full suite of Ford Performance hot hatches for New Zealand customers."
The Focus ST will be fully-imported from Germany, and will be on sale in New Zealand in 2020 with an RRP of $58,990.
“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 focussed performance car at the push of a button,” adds Leo Roeks, Ford Performance director, Europe. “We’ve incorporated learnings from programs including our Ford GT supercar and the acclaimed Focus RS to develop a mid-size performance car with a degree of flexibility that’s unique in its segment.”
A five-star Ancap safety rating was awarded to the new-generation Focus line-up in 2019, with the standardisation of the driver assist technology praised by Ancap CEO James Goodwin. The Focus ST includes a full suite of safety and DAT as standard.
“Our target was to deliver a new-generation Focus ST that is as effortless to drive day-to-day as the rest of the Focus line-up,” Roeks says. “The model’s comprehensive range of technologies means customers gain exhilarating ST performance without sacrifice.”
This flexibility and capability are accessed via selectable drive modes that optimise the Focus ST’s capabilities for road (or track) conditions ahead.
The all-new Focus ST also takes Ford’s fastest-steering-response crown from the acclaimed Fiesta ST. The electric power-assisted steering system is 15 per cent faster than the standard Focus, requiring just two turns lock-to-lock.
The next-generation Focus ST will arrive in New Zealand showrooms in quarter one, 2020.
