The new-generation Ford Focus ST will be fully-imported from Germany, and will be on sale in Australia in 2020 with an MLP of $44,690 for the six-speed manual. A seven-speed paddleshift automatic is offered as a no-cost-option.
The new all-aluminium 2.3-litre, turbocharged engine is the most potent ever offered in a Focus ST. It has 206 kW of power at 5,500 rpm – an increase of 22 kW over the outgoing Focus ST. Torque is 360 Nm (previously to 420 Nm).
Focus ST has a honeycomb front grille, with unique front and rear bumpers and an integrated rear spoiler. Details include dual chrome exhaust tips, rear privacy glass as well as heated power-folding exterior mirrors with puddle lamps.
There’s ST badging in the front grille and rear hatch. It is offered in Ford Performance Blue and Orange Fury, Frozen White, Magnetic (grey), Race Red, Ruby Red and Shadow Black.
It rides on 19-inch machined alloy wheels, with 235/35 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. Suspension lowers ride height by 10mm over the standard Focus model.
The Focus ST’s larger front and rear brake have red brake calipers, 330mm front and 302mm rear ventilated discs.
Heated Recaro sports seats are trimmed in leather and suede, with larger bolsters for improved lateral support during cornering, and feature ST logos, with lumbar support on the driver’s seat.
Ford Performance instrumentation is standard, as are aluminium pedals that are matched to a chrome gear-lever for the six-speed manual, while the automatic Focus ST takes advantage of the new-generation e-shifter
Infotainment is by Ford’s SYNC 3 and has a high-definition 8.0-inch touchscreen display, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability. Functions, including Siri, can be accessed via the steering-wheel mounted voice activation controls, with capabilities including voice-activated text messaging.
In addition, the Focus ST’s standard built-in sat-nav can also be accessed by voice-command, with the system able to comprehend Australian accents.
Though it won’t be on sale in Australia till 2020 Ford dealers are happy to take orders now.
