FORD #3 - Fords super fast Focus ST arrives in Paris.

• New Ford Focus ST makes motor show debut at Paris; global performance model offers enhanced driving dynamics, advanced new features and powerful new diesel option
• New chassis control technologies include industry-first Enhanced Transitional Stability system; combined with re-tuned suspension and steering to help deliver a driving experience that is even more responsive, balanced and refined
• Ford introduces 185PS diesel Focus ST that offers 110g/km CO₂, Auto-Start-Stop technology that improves fuel efficiency of 250PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost model by 6 per cent
• Sporty and aggressive new five-door and wagon models offer a muscular body kit; unique lamp, grille and bumper designs; and new 19-inch alloy wheels
• Well-crafted interior features ergonomic controls, Recaro seats and sports steering wheel
• New driver assistance and connectivity features include SYNC 2 connectivity system with high-resolution 8-inch colour touch screen and class-leading voice control 

The new Ford Focus ST will make its motor show debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

The most advanced Focus ST yet offers new chassis control technologies, tuned suspension and steering, and bespoke tyre specification that ensure an even more responsive, balanced and refined driving experience. And for the first time, it will be offered with the choice of two powerful engines – one petrol and one diesel.

The first diesel Focus ST takes day-to-day usability and sportiness to a new level by delivering the most fuel-efficient and lowest CO₂ Ford performance car ever; 185PS 2.0-litre TDCi achieves 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds, 67.3mpg and 110g/km CO₂.*

For customers who prefer petrol, the 250PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, fuel efficiency of 41.5mpg, and 159g/km CO₂. Both models offer Auto-Start-Stop for the first time that improves the EcoBoost version’s fuel efficiency by 6 per cent and help make it the most fuel-efficient petrol Focus ST ever.

“The new Focus ST delivers an even more sophisticated balance of performance, driving dynamics, refinement and style – the core of Ford’s Sports Technologies DNA,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “Even more enjoyable and rewarding to drive and with the choice of diesel power for the first time, the new Focus ST is in a class of its own.”

The Focus ST will also benefit from technology and craftsmanship first revealed earlier this year for the new Ford Focus – the world’s best-selling global nameplate.** The sporty and aggressive new five-door and estate models will offer class-leading driver assistance technologies and connectivity features including the SYNC 2 in-car connectivity system.

Ford has sold more than 140,000 Focus ST models in 40 countries worldwide since the car was first launched in 2002.

Enhanced driving dynamics

Ford Team RS, the award-winning European arm of Ford’s Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the number one objective for the new Focus ST.

The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier new shock absorber tuning front and rear, with stiffer suspension bushes on the front lower control arm and rear spring links. In combination with the model-specific anti-roll bars and rear springs from the previous generation ST, these enhancements deliver an even sharper dynamic performance.

The calibration of the Electronic Power Assisted Steering and electronic vehicle control systems has also been revised to meet the specific sporting requirements of the new Focus ST.

Key innovations include the industry-first Enhanced Transitional Stability (ETS) system as part of the vehicle’s advanced Electronic Stability Control (ESC). ETS senses vehicle stability and driver inputs, predicts when a skid or loss of control might occur, and intervenes as required using individual wheel braking to maintain optimal precision and control during rapid changes of direction at speed – for example in a lane-change situation.

Team RS engineers have also revised the Electronic Torque Vectoring Control settings that optimise wheel torque distribution, to further maximise traction through corners and increase agility.

Focus ST drivers have the option of selecting three ESC system modes to suit different road or track conditions:

• Standard Mode – with ESC and traction control fully active
• Sport Mode – No engine torque reduction from traction control and ESC systems, and reduced ESC brake interventions to facilitate more sporty driving; ETS is disabled
• Off Mode – No engine torque reduction from traction control and ESC systems, and no ESC brake interventions (Torque Vectoring remains active); ETS is disabled

Power delivery refinement under hard acceleration – particularly front wheel traction and gear shift quality – is also assisted by engine mounts engineered specifically to accommodate the performance of the new Focus ST. Additionally, Ford worked with Michelin to develop a new 19-inch tyre that complements the driving dynamics, especially maximising lateral grip.

“Ford has long enjoyed a reputation for producing performance hatchbacks with superb driving dynamics and the new Focus ST more than lives up to that pedigree,” Bakaj added. “The engineering enhancements to the suspension, steering and electronic control systems deliver greater responsiveness, agility, precision and an exhilarating driving experience – whichever powertrain you choose.” 

Power of choice

The new 185PS 2.0-litre diesel engine that debuts in the new Focus ST has been optimised to deliver ST performance and character alongside fuel efficiency and everyday practicality.

The increased power output of the Focus ST 2.0-litre TDCi – a 23 per cent gain over the 150 PS 2.0-litre engine in the new Focus range – is achieved by electronic calibration, a revised air intake system and a new sports-tuned exhaust.

Peak power is developed at 3,500rpm and there is 400Nm of torque available from 2,000-2,750rpm, enabling the new Focus ST diesel to achieve a maximum speed of 135mph. The torque output enables impressive in-gear acceleration and strong performance at low rpm. In 6^th gear, acceleration from 50-75mph takes just 9.7 seconds in sixth gear, the combination of a shorter ratio and the increased power enabling the Focus ST to outpace the 150PS Focus by 2.2 seconds.

Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing technology, and high-pressure direct-injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak power is available at 5,500rpm, 360Nm of torque is available from 2,000-4,500rpm, and maximum speed is 154mph. 

Both engines use a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shift. The gear ratios – exclusive to ST and matched individually to each engine – deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed.

Powerful appearance

The new Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted bonnet; slimmer headlamps and rectangular foglamps.

The sports bodykit also includes body‑coloured side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimised for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes.

Black lamp bezels, ST badging and new 19-inch ST Design alloy wheels – that are available as an option – complete the look.

“Focus ST has proved very popular with Ford’s performance oriented customers and the new model takes that to an even more striking and dramatic level,” said Joel Piaskowski, design director, Ford of Europe. “The signature ST honeycomb upper grille is slimmer and sits higher on the fascia, there are new rectangular fog lamps in the outer apertures, and the lower fascia offers sharper and more distinct sculpting. At the rear, the width of the car is emphasised by a new full-width graphic in the lower fascia.”

A new dark grey exterior paint colour called Stealth is introduced exclusively to the Focus ST. Deep Impact Blue also is new to the range that includes Tangerine Scream, Frozen White, Panther Black and Race Red.

Cockpit-style cabin

Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout that also is simpler, with a clearer visual connection between the key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin.

An additional bank of three gauges – an ST hallmark – is situated on the instrument binnacle and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim; a satin chrome-topped gear lever; and ST pedals deliver the interior that ST drivers expect.  

Satin chrome door grab handles and illuminated aluminium scuff plates add extra touches of refinement, and sports seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, and also are comfortable for every day driving.

The new Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature grey/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colours (Tangerine Scream; Performance Blue; Smoke Storm or Race Red); ST3 seats have a full charcoal black leather finish.

Advanced technologies

Driver assistance, convenience and connectivity technologies that will be introduced for the first time include the Ford SYNC 2 connectivity system. SYNC 2 offers access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones using class-leading voice control and a high-definition, 8-inch colour touchscreen that displays the ST logo on start-up.

Adaptive Front Lighting, available for the first time on the Focus ST, adjusts the intensity and angle of the Bi-Xenon HID headlamp beams according to vehicle speed, steering angle and distance to objects to provide optimal illumination. Cross Traffic Alert also is a new addition for Focus ST, and warns drivers reversing from parking spaces if other vehicles are about to cross their path.

Ford’s enhanced Active City Stop collision avoidance system – now operative at speeds of up to 31mph – readies the brakes if a potential impact is detected and – if the driver does not respond – will automatically apply the brakes. Lane Keeping Aid applies steering torque to guide the Focus ST back in to lane if drifting is detected.

Available to order in the UK from autumn 2014, the first new Focus ST models are scheduled to be in dealerships from early 2015. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.