Ford Focus ST 2.3 EcoBoost

The Ford Focus ST is the hot-hatch variant of the standard Focus. It has a 2.3-litre petrol engine capable of returning 280hp and getting the car from 0-62mph in below six seconds. It has 19-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, ST exterior decoration and scuff plates. Tech includes adaptive LED headlights, a rear parking camera and a ten-speaker B&O stereo system.

The Ford Focus ST is a high-performance family hatchback that’s just as suited to the school run as it is quick country-road blasts. Like the VW Golf GTI, it’s based on a sensible family car but has a seriously powerful engine shoehorned under its bonnet.

To help make sure you don’t mistake this speedy ST model for a standard Ford Focus, it comes with a new grille design, a sportier front bumper, a roof-mounted spoiler, larger alloy wheels, LED headlights and a pair of large exhaust tips.

Inside, the changes are a little more subtle, but you’ll certainly spot the Recaro sports steering wheel (with an ST driving mode shortcut button), ST-embossed gear knob, alloy pedal trims and ST-branded loading screens for the infotainment system.

Key information

Engine size 2.0 litres
Engine Power 190 bhp
Transmission Manual
Doors 5 doors
Seats 5 seats

Stats & Performance

Co2 emissions 139.0 g/km
Emissions standards Euro 6
First year road tax £220
Insurance group 23E
Consumption 53.3 mpg
Acceleration (0 - 62mph) 7.6 s
Top speed 137 mph
Boot (seats up) 273 litres
Boot (seats down) 1,250 litres

Automatic or Manual Transmission

Keen drivers will appreciate the Focus ST’s standard six-speed manual gearbox with shorter throws than the standard car, but if you find yourself regularly stuck in traffic – or do lots of long journeys – you might be better off waiting for the optional eight-speed automatic.

Whichever gearbox you pick, petrol models come with adaptive suspension as standard. It’s pretty supple in its most comfortable setting, but rather too firm for road use in Sport and Track modes. You’ll be better off leaving it in Normal mode most of the time, and only dipping into the ST’s more focused settings on especially smooth stretches of country road.