By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Ford US Media
New for 2015 the Ford Focus ST provides increased handling refinement and improved steering feel to help deliver a driving experience that is more responsive and balanced.
Exterior
The new Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted hood; slimmer headlamps and rectangular fog lamps.
A sports body kit also includes body colored side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimized for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal center tailpipes.
The design is stronger and sportier, and that allowed the new ST to be more aggressive and dramatic. The front bumper is deeper, the honeycomb upper grille is higher and more upright, and the lower grille is larger. The deeper rear bumper really emphasizes the width of the car.
2015 Ford Focus ST
2015 Ford Focus ST
Interior
Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout, with a clearer visual connection between key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin.
An additional bank of three gauges an ST hallmark is situated in a central instrument pod and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flatbase sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim, a satin chrome-topped gear lever and ST pedals deliver the interior ST drivers expect.
Satin chrome door grab handles and aluminum scuff plates with illumination add extra touches of refinement. The car’s sport seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, along with comfort for everyday driving.
The new Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature gray, Charcoal, anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colors – Tangerine Scream, Performance Blue, Smoke Storm or Race Red; ST3 seats have full charcoal black leather finish.
2015 Ford Focus ST
Advanced Technologies
Driver-assist, convenience and connectivity technologies include Ford SYNC. 2015 Focus ST drivers will have access to powerful capabilities thanks to a host of new functions developers can integrate as they modify their apps to communicate with enhanced SYNC AppLink.
In addition, Android and iOS Smartphone owners can download more than 60 AppLink-enabled apps from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
2015 Ford Focus ST
Driving Dynamics
Ford Team RS, the European arm of Ford’s Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the No. 1 objective for the new Focus ST.
The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier shock absorber tuning front and rear to deliver even sharper dynamic performance. The electric power-assisted steering has also been revised to provide the Focus ST driver with improved steering feel.
Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, twin independent variable camshaft timing and high-pressure direct injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak output of 252 horsepower is available at 5,500 rpm, while torque peaks at 270 lb.-ft. at 2,500 rpm.
The engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission with a performance oriented, short-throw shifter. The gear ratios exclusive to ST deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed.
2015 Ford Focus ST
Summary
Since its debut, Focus ST has been bringing our fun-to-drive DNA to the hot hatch segment with a uniquely Ford blend of driving dynamics, performance and style. The engineering enhancements to the suspension and steering deliver greater responsiveness, agility and precision, all of which will reward the performance enthusiast with an exhilarating driving experience.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $24,370.00, the one I drove included Navigation System, 18 Inch Premium Painted Wheels, Black Exterior Stripe and the ST2 Equipment Group 401A Package, and it came in at $29,970.00 including destination and delivery charges. The EPA fuel economy estimates 23 MPG city and 32 MPG highway with the 2.0 Liter Ecoboost Engine and the 6 speed manual transmission.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
