The all-new Focus ST has been spied testing at the
Nurburgring – and it doesn’t look half bad. Ford unveiled the
latest-generation Focus in April with a much improved design and a plethora of
new features. These images of the performance-focused ST variant show that it
could be the best looking Focus ever, combining the perfect amount of
aggression with attractive curves and flowing lines.
Ford has started the visual
modifications at the front fascia and fitted a bespoke bumper. While it’s
covered in camouflage, we know it’ll adopt large air intakes and an altogether
sportier design. The designers also appear to have gone to town with the rear fascia,
outfitting it with a roof spoiler, distinctive bumper, a bold diffuser and two
circular tailpipes. It reminds us of the Mercedes-AMG A45;
and that’s certainly no bad thing. Less obvious changes present on this
prototype include a lowered ride height, new wheels, and enlarged brakes.
Powertrain details remain unknown, but our sources
claim the new Focus ST will be outfitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter
four-cylinder pumping out between 250 and 275 hp through the front wheels. While the next Focus ST will be
eventually outshone by a new RS, when the latter comes up, Ford’s ST-badged
models have always offered excellent bang-for-your-buck performance and driving
thrills. We expect no different for the latest-generation model.
Alongside the exterior and powertrain modifications,
Ford will most likely apply some unique touches throughout the cabin, including
a variety of ST badges, sporty contrast stitching, and bespoke seats. A launch date for the warm
hatchback remains unknown, but we believe it will premiere next year, most
likely as a 2020 model. Ford will probably let it sit at the top of the Focus
range for a couple of years before launching the next-generation RS that should
deliver in excess of 400 hp from its turbocharged mill.
Cr : Carscoops
