2015 Ford Focus ST
April 2015
Alan Rider
In Detroit's heyday, automakers slipped souped-up motors beneath the hoods of otherwise ordinary models to create the first muscle cars. Fast forward a few decades, and you'll find the Ford Focus ST to be an outstanding new take on that old formula.
The compact Focus ST builds on the mainstream version's solid foundation with a number of high-performance upgrades. Not the least of which is a 252-horsepower, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine capable of propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in a muscle car-like 6.6 seconds.
All this power is delivered to the front wheels by way of a slick 6-speed manual with short throws between gears for quicker shifts. While it’s bound to put some buyers off, the fact that there’s no automatic transmission available seems somehow fitting for a true high-performance machine.
By other measures, the Focus ST bests those original factory hot rods — and all but a couple of its current competitors — handily. Where the first muscle cars were all about straight-line acceleration, the ST’s firmer suspension, precise steering, and strong brakes make it a hoot on a winding stretch of road.
Best of all, these upgrades have been finessed to the point where they avoid much of the harshness that makes some of its rivals unpleasant in everyday driving. To make certain new owners understand how to safely wring maximum performance and enjoyment out of their new Focus ST, Ford offers the ST Octane Academy, a track-based driving school held at Miller Motorsports Park outside Salt Lake City.
Inside, the ST (which only is offered as a four-door hatchback) features a cabin that's unexpectedly stylish and quiet. There's also a long list of the latest technology on offer, including available upgrades like xenon HID headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated Recaro seats with more substantial side bolsters designed to keep your backside planted during enthusiastic cornering, a navigation system, and a 10-speaker Sony premium audio system with a large 8-inch center touch-screen.
Put it all together and you’ll understand why I say the Ford Focus ST is a thoroughly modern muscle car.
The compact Focus ST builds on the mainstream version's solid foundation with a number of high-performance upgrades. Not the least of which is a 252-horsepower, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine capable of propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in a muscle car-like 6.6 seconds.
All this power is delivered to the front wheels by way of a slick 6-speed manual with short throws between gears for quicker shifts. While it’s bound to put some buyers off, the fact that there’s no automatic transmission available seems somehow fitting for a true high-performance machine.
By other measures, the Focus ST bests those original factory hot rods — and all but a couple of its current competitors — handily. Where the first muscle cars were all about straight-line acceleration, the ST’s firmer suspension, precise steering, and strong brakes make it a hoot on a winding stretch of road.
Best of all, these upgrades have been finessed to the point where they avoid much of the harshness that makes some of its rivals unpleasant in everyday driving. To make certain new owners understand how to safely wring maximum performance and enjoyment out of their new Focus ST, Ford offers the ST Octane Academy, a track-based driving school held at Miller Motorsports Park outside Salt Lake City.
Inside, the ST (which only is offered as a four-door hatchback) features a cabin that's unexpectedly stylish and quiet. There's also a long list of the latest technology on offer, including available upgrades like xenon HID headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated Recaro seats with more substantial side bolsters designed to keep your backside planted during enthusiastic cornering, a navigation system, and a 10-speaker Sony premium audio system with a large 8-inch center touch-screen.
Put it all together and you’ll understand why I say the Ford Focus ST is a thoroughly modern muscle car.
ALAN RIDER has been writing about the intersection of automobiles and adventure travel for more than two decades.
Details
Fuel Economy
- 13 MPG City
- 32 MPG Highway
The Good
- Powerful 2.0-liter engine
- Precise close-ratio 6-speed manual
- Sharp handling/steering, composed ride
- Excellent highway fuel economy
- Strong scores in crash safety tests
The Bad
- No automatic transmission offered
- Optional MyFordTouch system can be difficult to use
Vehicle Type:
Car
Base Price:
$23,625
As Tested:
$28,290