The exciting next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, providing an early preview of the new high-performance model which will be introduced around the world in 2012.
This is a car that Ford will be making available to the whole world – so that means it has to be good. However, Ford haven’t put a foot wrong recently, so I don’t see why this new hot hatch will be any other than excellent, especially as it follows on from the sublime Ford Focus RS.
This range-topping Focus will be completely true to Ford’s ST model heritage, offering driving enthusiasts an intoxicating cocktail of exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design.
“The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers with an early preview in Paris” said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford Motor Company’s global C car vehicle line director. “The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance and we are confident that the new model will strengthen the reputation of Ford’s ST heritage among enthusiast drivers and attract new fans as well.”
At the heart of the appeal of the next-generation Focus ST is a high-output 250PS derivative of the efficient and advanced new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine.
Succeeding the turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder unit of the current European model, this unique 250PS Ford EcoBoost engine is being specially developed for the new Focus ST to ensure that the car gets the muscular performance – and the inspirational sound – which it deserves. It also marks the first application of the four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model.
Compared to the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine used in other Ford vehicles, the 250PS unit features re-designed intake and exhaust systems and a unique engine calibration to deliver the desired level of power and responsiveness. The engine retains the strong torque delivery which is a feature of Ford EcoBoost designs, with a broad, flat torque curve offering a maximum output of 360Nm.
One of a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford, the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost is a lightweight, all-aluminium design which combines three technologies – high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing – to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.
The all new Ford Focus for 2012 will also feature a whole host of new technology on board, including advanced new driver assistance, powertrain, chassis and active safety features.
Many of these features, such as the advanced new Torque Vectoring Control system – which acts like a torque vectoring differential to enhance cornering stability and agility – have a direct impact on improving driving quality to an even higher level.
So ultimately, will this be one of the best drivers’ cars out there when launched in 2012? I would say almost certainly yes, this a model that I am more than excited for and if Ford gets the price right on this one then it’ll be wheel spinning out of showrooms like nothing else.
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