Ford has revealed the refreshed Focus ST, developed by Ford Performance, and also announced that the Focus line-up in Australia will consist only of the Focus ST hot hatch range, including the ST and premium ST X.

There is plenty to like about the update. There’s a new exterior styling and alloy wheel design, a tasty Mean Green paint option and all-new Performance Seats.

Powering the ST is the 2.3-litre twin-scroll turbocharged EcoBoost engine, delivering 206kW and 420Nm of torque. A seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters is standard, while a six-speed manual gearbox is a no-cost option.

Further high-performance driving technologies include an electronic limited-slip differential and Continuously Controlled Damping. The Focus ST X also features new Pixel LED headlights, along with 19-inch alloy wheels and an additional Track mode within the selectable Drive Modes.

The updated model introduces Ford’s next-generation SYNC 4 technology, enabling embedded connected navigation and connected voice control with natural language understanding. Control for many features comes via a massive 13.2-inch landscape centre screen. The new touchscreen incorporates controls for functions such as heating and ventilation that were previously activated using physical buttons, resulting in a less cluttered centre console.

The system also delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Using the FordPass app, a range of connected services can be accessed using a smartphone, allowing the customer to stay connected and utilise features such as Vehicle Status – for checking fuel levels, odometer readings and more – and Remote Start.

Exterior design changes include honeycomb upper and lower front grilles, large side vents, side skirts and aerodynamically optimised spoilers on the lower fascia and rear roof. A new design of 18 inch alloy wheel is standard on Focus ST, with 19-inch wheels offered on the Focus ST X.

Inside, there are all-new Performance front seats, developed in-house by Ford Performance engineers, and the driver gets 14-way power adjustment, including four-way adjustable lumbar support.

There’s a new bonnet design, new LED headlights that include integrated fog light functionality, and LED taillights that feature a new internal design and loop light pattern.

The premium Focus ST X model will feature advanced lighting technologies, with Dynamic Pixel LED headlamps.

Driver Assist and safety features include New Intersection Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane Centring, Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking and Rear Occupant Alert.

Ford says its decision that the Focus line-up in Australia consist only of the Focus ST hot hatch range, is a reflection of a changing market – one that the company says has seen the small car segment decline significantly over the past seven years, while hot hatch sales have tripled.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (November 2021)

9 November 2021