(autoexpress)
- The fastest Ford Focus is ready to earn its stripes - and Auto Express has
the first official pictures of the scorching new ST.
With a sleek new look, improved interior and extra hi-tech kit, the revitalised
motor has the VW Golf GTI firmly in its sights.
Externally, the newcomer now gets the freshened-up face found on lesser models,
including the swept-back headlamps. However, there's also a new deeper
front bumper, side skirts and roof-mounted spoiler at the rear, where you'll
also find LED tail lamps.
Inside, there are higher quality materials for the dash, upgraded dials and
heavily bolstered Recaro seats. Options include a voice-activated sat-nav,
carbon finish trim and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Under the skin the ST remains unchanged, which is no bad thing. Power comes
from the same smooth and punchy 222bhp 2.5-litre turbocharged motor,
Performance is blistering with the sprint from standstill to 62mph takes just
6.8 seconds, while the top speed is 150mph.
Elsewhere, minor tweaks have been made to the excellent chassis to give the
sharp-handling Focus an extra dose of refinement.
As before the model will be available both three and a five-door bodystyles and
with the same three trim levels. Prices start at £18,250, rising to
£20,850.