The Focus ST is the performance version of the Focus hatchback from the blue oval, and Ford has revealed a surprise about the 2015 year model - it has a diesel!
On the outside, there's new bumpers, slimmer headlamps and new fog lamps, a new hood and the 18-inch alloy wheels have a fresh design. Inside the changes are incremental as well. There's a flat-bottomed steering wheel, the centre console has been redesigned, and there's a smart USB charger in the car as well.
Two engine options are available for the Focus ST: one is the familiar 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-pot that generates 247bhp and and 360Nm of torque. This gives it a 0-100kmph time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 247kmph. Fuel efficiency stands at an very good 14.7kmpl on the UK driving cycle. Europe will also get a 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine that is rated at 183bhp and 400Nm. This is an engine that India would love, because it gets the Focus to 100kmph in 8.1 seconds, go on to 217kmph, and returns almost 28kmpl!
The suspension has been retuned, getting new front springs, sportier damping, an upgraded torque vectoring system, a better power steering system, and a new Electronic Transitional Stability function that seems to be an advanced form of ESP that helps maintain stability during high speed manoeuvres.
The 2015 Focus ST will be available in Europe by the end of the year and deliveries will begin early next year. There is no real chance of it coming to India, but with Hyundai announcing the i30 for India and rumours circulating that VW will be bringing the Golf to our market, the Focus would be a great addition to the range.
