2017 Ford Focus ST – Test Drive, Review, Rating, Specs

Ruling the Road with the Focus ST

It really is the wet dream of any forward-wheel-drive enthusiast. The Ford Focus ST promises launch-grade acceleration and tight grip handling in a hot hatch package. All that performance excitement is contributed by an exceptional torque vectoring system and an ultra-fiesty turbocharged engine. You’re not going to enjoy a smooth sailing road experience because of its high purity of performance tuning, and the driver’s seat is a bit of a tight squeeze. But if you can tolerate it, the Ford Focus ST delivers an ultra-exhilarating driving experience

Not much has changed in an already awesome package. The Ford Focus ST gets its power steering better refined with minor cosmetic updates in the front. Other than that, the good stuff remains with the 2.0-liter turbocharged 252-horsepower EcoBoost engine, and performance-oriented 6 speed manual transmission.

An Interior of Seriousness

There’s no fancy styling going on in the interior of the Focus ST. The design language of the cabin space speaks serious performance with its triple analog turbo pressure gauge, 6-way adjustable bucket seats, and carbon shift knob and door handles that can be configured with the Carbon Fiber Interior Accent package. Better yet; seating options can be upgraded to partial or full leather Recaro bucket seats that will bolt you down tightly around turns. That’s going to be compromised with a very tight squeeze and lack of mobility and comfort due to its massive lateral supports and deep seating seating position.

Rear seating arrangement is also a bit of a tight squeeze, but bearable in most cases. They even have 60/40 rear spit seating arrangement for added family and functional convenience.

Where the Fun Begins

The Ford Focus ST gets a 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4 engine working in tandem with a performance grade 6-speed manual transmission. The combination is stellar. Launches are quick with no hesitation and the turbo boost is hidden from a fairly progressive torque acceleration path. And this thing can turn like no other business. A shear amount of road grip can be felt and its physical capability somehow translates back to the steering wheel with excellent feedback.

Handling is ultra sharp and precise with its fine-tuned electric power steering and the Focus ST can throw some pretty violent G’s around corners at high speeds made possible by its torque vectoring system that automatically applies braking on the inner wheels around bends. Brakes manage well under high stress with its stock four-wheel disc brakes. But feel and precision can definitely be improved with upgraded Brembo disc brakes.

The Verdict

The Ford Focus ST can be had for as little as $22,650 and that comes standard with the 2.0L turbocharged ECOBoost engine and a 6 speed manual transmission. An extra $3,680 gets you HID Automatic headlamps, dual-zone climate controls, Sirius XM Radio, 8″ Capacitive touchscreen display, cornering lamps and Recaro leather-trim seats. And full leather Recaro seats can be had for an extra $2,000. That brings in a total cost of $26,330 for a fairly comprehensive performance oriented vehicle with leather-trimemed Recaro seats. Even adding the full leather Recaro seats still brings you under the $30,000 price margin.

That’s incredible value for a vehicle that’s both performance oriented with hatchback functionality. And fuel efficiency is not bad either with EPA ratings at 22,30,25 MPG on the city, highway and combined respectively.

The craziness doesn’t stop here either. Ford offers the Focus RS that produces 350 horsepower with all-wheel-drive configuration. There is much anticipation to be had with this beast considering how much fun and excitement the ST brought to the table.

 

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2017 Ford Focus
• Model : Ford Focus ST
• Vehicle Type : 5-door Hatchback
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : FWD
• Engine : 2.0L EcoBoost® I-4
• Transmission : 6-speed manual
• Fuel Economy: 22/30/25 mpg city, highway, and combined

Pros

• Ultra performance handling
• 5-door hatchback functionality
• Exhilarating driving experience
• Exceptional powertrain performance with turbocharged engine and 6 speed manual transmission

Cons

• Uncomfortable driving position
• Ride comfort can be harsh in most situations