Ford Focus ST Edition is most agile version yet
THE NEW FORD Focus ST Edition has been revealed with a bespoke chassis package that’s claimed to make it the most agile iteration of the hot hatch yet.
Arriving shortly after the similarly conceived Fiesta ST Edition, the newcomer starts from £35,785 and is available exclusively in hatchback form. It’s equipped with a 2.3-litre petrol engine that produces 276bhp and gives a 0-62mph time of 5.7sec.
Ford Performancetuned adjustable coilover suspension is fitted as standard, lowering the ride height by 10mm at the front and rear, with a further adjustment of 20mm available. The dampers have 12 rebound settings for greater control in the corners and the spring rates are increased by more than 50% compared with the standard model’s.
Customers will receive a technical document advising on the optimal suspension settings for specific surfaces and different driving conditions.
The model is equipped with lightweight, 19in alloy wheels as standard, which, Ford says, reduces unsprung mass by 10% on each corner of the car, improving grip on rougher roads.
The model retains its electronic limited-slip differential system with hydraulically activated clutches for better power distribution.
Like the Fiesta ST Edition, it’s marked out by way of gloss black grille detailing and black for the front bumper wings, door mirror caps, rear spoiler, diffuser panel, roof panel and edging for the ST badges.
Inside, the sports seats, floor mats and leather steering wheel are trimmed with Ford’s traditional performance blue stitching, and the engine start button gains red lettering.