Nowadays, the lines between mainstream and premium offerings are becoming increasingly blurred. This, naturally, is reflected in their pricing, as there are hot hatches that cost as much as some premium offerings – and the new Ford Focus ST is a good example of that.
In the UK, the petrol-powered version starts from £32,000 (equal to $40,508/€35,778), before selecting any optional extras. That’s almost as much as the new BMW 3-Series.
Sure, by opting for the Ford, you get a 2.3-liter turbo four with 280 PS (276 hp / 206 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, a sport chassis, an electronic limited slip differential, launch control and others. On the other hand, you get about the same in a Hyundai i30 N, which starts at £26,000 ($32,913/€29,069); but that’s another story…
Also Read: New Vs. Old: 2019 Ford Focus ST Raises Its Game Leaving Predecessor In The Dust
The diesel variant, which gets a 190 PS (187 hp / 140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, 2.0-liter engine, is easier on the pocket, with a price tag of £29,495 ($37,337/€32,997) for the hatchback.
Also, getting the Track driving mode, alongside the Slippery/Wet, Normal and Sport, requires choosing the Performance Pack, which is an optional extra. There are other annoying things about the new Focus ST, like the fake noise that gets pumped into the cabin, which makes it feel like it’s trying too much. And this doesn’t really do justice to what is, in essence, a very good car, as pointed out by the video review shared below.
The 2020 Focus ST is quick, has very decent legroom for rear passengers, comfy Recaro sport seats at the front that keep you in place, and a good-sized boot. Furthermore, the anti-lag technology, which is part of the aforementioned Performance Pack, improves throttle response, and the kit level offered is sufficient for a compact car.
So, with all the ups and downs, should one consider getting Ford’s new, front-wheel drive hot hatch, or shift their attention to something else?