Ford Focus ST 2019: Aims to blend track-day performance with everyday usability

The new Ford Focus ST will be a car without compromise, offering track-day performance with everyday usability when it arrives later this year.

Developed by Ford Performance, the all-new Focus ST enhances the class-leading driving dynamics of the fourth generation Focus by adding unique suspension, braking, and powertrain configurations. This aims to make it the most responsive and agile Focus ST driving experience ever.

A new engine line-up offers free-revving power aplenty, with up to 12 percent more power and 17 percent more torque now available over the outgoing model. This fast-revving sporty performance comes via either a 276hp 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol or a 187hp EcoBlue diesel available with either a six-speed manual or quick-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Focus ST 2.3-litre EcoBoost delivers up to 35.7mpg fuel efficiency, and a 0-62 of 5.7 seconds while the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel variant - the most powerful diesel engine ever offered for a Ford Focus - delivers up to 58.8mpg and 0-62 in 7.6 seconds.

Further performance comes via Ford’s first front-wheel drive electronic limited-slip differential which improves traction and stability.

Another first is a selectable drive modes which matches driver performance to driving scenario allowing you to switch from refined tourer to focussed performance car at the push of a button.

Slippery/Wet, Normal, Sport and – for models equipped with the Performance Pack – Track Drive Modes adjust throttle mapping, automatic transmission shift scheduling, electronic stability control, electronic sound enhancement and climate settings to suit the driving scenario.

A dedicated “Sport” button on the flat-bottomed steering wheel gives direct access to Sport mode, and an additional “Mode” button allows drivers to quickly scroll through the Drive Mode options.

Innovative anti-lag technology, originally developed for the Ford GT supercar and F-150 Raptor pick-up, is introduced to the Focus ST for immediate power delivery in Sport and Track Drive Modes.

Ford’s new rev-matching technology that debuted on the new Ford Mustang is also introduced as part of an optional Performance Pack for 2.3-litre EcoBoost manual models to deliver smoother, faster downshifts. This is accompanied by a shift indicator light and matches the engine rotation speed to that of the gear that is being selected.

Developed to blend B-road fun-to-drive, legitimate track-day performance, and everyday usability better than any vehicle in its class. SLA suspension configuration helps optimise the vehicle’s responses to driver inputs without sacrificing comfort while Ford’s sophisticated CCD technology monitors suspension, body, steering and braking inputs every 2 milliseconds to adjust damping responses for outstanding ride quality and driving dynamics.

The driving experience is further enhanced using eLSD technology for Focus ST 2.3-litre EcoBoost models. Incorporated into the transmission, the system uses hydraulically activated clutches to redistribute up to 100 per cent of available engine torque to the wheel with more traction to counteract wheelspin. The result is increased agility and a significant reduction in understeer during acceleration through, and out of, corners.

Focus ST 2.0-litre EcoBlue models feature Torque Vectoring Control technology, which improves road holding and reduces understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering.

A bespoke Ford Performance screen on the 4.2-inch, TFT colour instrument displays digital turbocharger boost pressure, oil pressure and oil temperature gauges while Ford’s SYNC 3 8-inch infotainment allows drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions with mobile WiFi, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included.

A variety of driver assistance technologies including Ford’s first Head-up display to be offered in Europe and Evasive Steering Assist, a segment-first technology that helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions are offered. Adaptive Cruise Control also features and is now enhanced with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring.

The all-new Focus ST will make its UK dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, running in the Manufacturers Batch on Thursday 4 July.