Ford Performance may have canceled the RS program but they just launched a special edition of the Focus ST for selected European markets which benefits from upgraded adjustable suspension and lighter wheels. The Focus ST Edition is probably the last version of the current Focus Mk4 before the facelifted model arrives in 2022. Design-wise, the ST Edition is distinguished by the exclusive Azura Blue exterior paint which debuted in last year’s Fiesta ST Edition. Here it is combined with High Gloss Black finish on the grille, bumper inserts, mirror caps, roof, rear spoiler, and diffuser for a look that reminds us of the previous generation Focus RS. The ST badges are also special, edged with a black surround. Inside we find ST branded Recaro sports seats partially upholstered in leather, a red-colored ST button, and blue stitching all around to match the exterior.
The most important visual addition though is the new black-painted multispoke 19-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. Besides looking cool, the lightweight wheels reduce the unsprung mass by 10 percent at each corner. The most important change, though, is the upgraded suspension. Two-way adjustable coilovers by KW Automotive were tuned by Ford Performance in order to make the Focus ST Edition the most capable Focus Mk4 yet. The suspension comes with twin-tube stainless steel damper housings and powder-coated springs painted in blue, which is the signature color of Ford Performance.
The new suspension comes with 50 percent increased spring rates compared with the regular ST, while the ride height is lowered by 10 mm in both axles, allowing a further adjustment of 20 mm. Owners can adjust the suspension according to their liking, choosing among 12 jounce and 16 rebound settings. If this is too confusing, Ford has prepared a technical document with recommended settings for different driving conditions, plus a dedicated setting for the Nürburgring. There are no changes under the bonnet, where the four-cylinder turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine produces 276 hp and 420 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front axle exclusively through a six-speed manual gearbox, as the ST Edition is not available with the seven-speed DCT automatic.
There is also an electronically controlled eLSD with hydraulically activated clutches, optimized steering knuckle design, selectable Drive Modes, and performance brakes (330 mm discs at the front and 302 mm at the rear). The hot hatch accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The Focus ST Edition is already available in selected European markets with pricing starting from £ 35,785 (US$ 49,098) in the UK. This is £ 2,500 (US$ 3,427) more than the regular Focus ST with the six-speed manual gearbox. Ford is also offering the ST with the less powerful but more economic 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine, in both hatchback and estate bodystyles.
