Since the previous-generation (Mk 2) Ford Focus ST made its way onto the world stage, the Blue Oval’s performance compact hatchback has garnered heaps of praise and a strong following. That popularity grew with the introduction of the Mk 3 version, which was launched in South Africa a few years ago. In fact, the current model has found more than 140 000 new owners worldwide.
Not one to rest on its laurels, Ford has given the Focus ST a mild brush-over and made a few less-visible tweaks to keep the popular hot hatch fresh (now that it has reached at least the halfway point of its lifecycle).
New looks
The most obvious change is up front where the hottest Focus features the updated façade that the rest of the range received earlier this year. Sharper headlamps really set off the front end and slimmer taillamps have been adopted at the rear.
As before there are ST1 and ST3 trim levels. Externally the ST3 is distinguishable from the ST1 by LED daytime running lights and bi-Xenon HID headlamps with automatic activation. The original alloy design has been retained, but a buyer can specify their ST3 with larger 19-inch wheels and stickier Michelin rubber. The larger rims are bundled with red brake callipers and a sunroof as part of a R6 000 option pack.
Under the skin
Ford has employed a strengthened body structure along with new front springs and stiffer bushes to resist flex under hard cornering.
Power from the direct-injection 2,0-litre engine remains unchanged at 184 kW/360 N.m. The EcoBoost engine is said to consume just 6,8 L/100 km (an improvement of 0,4L/100 km). The corresponding CO2 figure is 159 g/km. These figures represent six per cent reductions and are helped by the fitment of auto stop/start technology, as well as underbody cladding for better aerodynamics.
Inside the cabin
Changes inside include a redesigned facia with fewer buttons. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather-covered rim has been adopted. Recaro sports seats are standard fitment, although the ST1 has fabric trim and the ST3 has leather-covered chairs.
Ford’s SYNC 2 connectivity system with eight-inch colour touchscreen is now available exclusively on the range-topping ST3. The ST1 uses the same first-generation SYNC system as employed on the rest of the Ford Focus range.
How does it go?
The Focus ST was obviously conceived and developed by people who love driving and it remains an engaging car to drive. All the hallmarks that made the ST a winner in a previous stand-off with its rivals in the 2013 CAR Performance Shootout have been retained.
The quick steering action, just 1,8 turns lock-to-lock, is perfectly suited to racetrack driving as the tiller requires very little lock to usher the ST around even the tightest corners.
During the dynamic drive experience hosted at Dezzi Raceway, the Ford offered oodles of front-end grip, but if I said I noticed the stiffer settings over the older car’s suspension I’d be lying. I’d have to drive the two back-to-back to be certain of the differences.
Despite Ford’s claims of reducing torque steer, the 360 N.m of torque can still be felt through the wriggling of the ST’s steering wheel, particularly on pull-away. If the traction control’s leash is loosened the front inside wheel will easily spin up when exiting tight corners as it scrabbles for grip due to the ST’s open-differential configuration.
Speaking of the ESC, the system has three modes: Standard, Sport and Off, the latter of which deactivates the system entirely, unlike those of some cars that remain lurking in the background. In Sport mode there is enough leeway to get the whole car moving around; grin-inducing lift-off oversteer can easily be invoked, if you wish.
Oh, and that same rorty soundtrack remains. The inline four does a pretty handy aural impression of an inline five especially in the mid-range of the rev band.
Summary
Ford’s ST division knows how to build and set-up a hot hatch – there’s no doubt about that. CAR adores the Fiesta ST and the Focus ST is a worthy challenger in its class and, until the tar-burning RS arrives next year, it’s still the top dog.
I do feel Ford could have done a little more to the Focus ST with the facelift, perhaps given it a slight power hike or included a limited slip diff. That would have kept the ST hot on the heels of the Golf GTI Performance Pack, Opel Astra OPC and Renault Mégane RS.
Perhaps Ford could have introduced some form of automated transmission for the ST (VW’s DSG makes up the bulk of GTI sales). It’s not that the “new” ST disappoints, but I have come to expect a lot from a brand that has impressed us with its performance models.
Having said that, we have the Mustang (coming late this year) and the Focus RS (expected in 2016) to look forward to and I, for one, cannot wait.