Ford's New Focus ST Brings Enhanced Performance and Driving Dynamics to China

• New Focus ST designed to improve all aspects of the driving experience with new suspension, improved steering and new smart technology
• Sporty and aggressive new exterior houses well-crafted, ergonomic interior with signature ST touches
• Features advanced driver assist and connectivity technologies including enhanced Active City Stop and SYNC 2

SHANGHAI -- April 20, 2015: Ford today debuted its most advanced Focus ST to date in China, taking day-to-day usability and sportiness to a new level with improved performance and smart technologies for a more rewarding drive.

The new Focus ST offers new chassis control technologies, an updated suspension and steering, and bespoke tire specification to ensure the driving experience is even more responsive, balance and refined.

“The new Focus ST delivers the perfect balance of performance and driving dynamics with refinement and style,” said John Lawler, chairman and CEO, Ford China. “This car takes the fun-to-drive spirit that is at the center of the Focus brand and makes it even better with improved dynamics, new styling and a more sophisticated cabin.”

EcoBoost power
In China, the Focus ST is equipped with Ford’s powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, which delivers 184 kW for a 0-100 km/h time of just 6.5 seconds – all while delivering fuel efficiency of 6.8 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 158 g/km.

The EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, Twin-Independent Variable Cam Timing technology and high pressure direct-injection to deliver uncompromised performance. Peak power is available at 5,500 rpm, 360 Nm of torque is available from 2,000-4,500 rpm, and it can take the Focus ST to a maximum speed of 248 km/h.

To help drivers extract maximum performance and enjoyment, the engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shift. The gear ratios, exclusive to the ST, deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at higher speeds.

To increase fuel efficiency, the Focus ST features Auto Start-Stop technology, which automatically switches the engine off when the vehicle idles, such as at a traffic light. The seamless system instantly restarts the engine when the driver releases the brake pedal.

Enhanced driving dynamics
The Ford Performance Team made improving the entire driving experience of the new Focus ST their primary objective.

The sports suspension has all-new front springs, and shock absorbers have been given sportier tuning in the front and rear. Working together with anti-roll bars and rear springs carried over from the current ST, the suspension enhancements deliver sharper driving dynamics.

The new Focus ST also features an Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system calibrated to meet the sporting requirements of the ST. Variable ratio steering offers a quicker response with improved turn-in and balance. Drivers will also appreciate revised Electronic Torque Vectoring Control settings that optimize wheel torque distribution and maximize traction through corners, increasing agility and improving dynamics.

The delivery of power under hard acceleration has been improved with engine mounts specifically engineered to maximize the performance, especially front wheel traction and gear shift quality.

“The Focus ST is part of a long pedigree of performance hatchbacks, and the enhancements to the suspension, steering and electric control systems ensure that the latest edition is more than worthy of the ST badge,” said Trevor Worthington, vice president, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific. “The result is an exhilarating driving experience, with greater responsiveness, agility and precision.”

Powerful appearance
The new Focus ST has been redesigned with a lower, wider stance, giving it a much bolder presence on the road. The heavily sculpted hood connects seamlessly to the new, slimmer headlamps and signature trapezoidal grille for an aggressive and sporty front-end.

At the rear, a roof spoiler improves aerodynamic performance, and twin-hexagonal tailpipes hint at a powerful drive experience. The look is completed with 18-inch ST alloy wheels, black lamp bezels and the ST badge.

Moving inside, the new Focus ST features the same intuitive and clean design as the new Ford Focus, but with the addition of distinctively ST design elements.

Three additional gauges on top of the instrument panel display the turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure, an ST hallmark. Other unique design elements include a leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed sports steering wheel; a satin chrome-topped gear lever; and signature ST pedals. Specially designed sports seats developed by Ford and Recaro provide the extra support required to fully enjoy the ST experience and are also comfortable for everyday driving. Satin chrome door grab handles and aluminum scuff plates give the interior a touch of refinement.

Advanced technology
The new Focus ST features smart technologies to help drivers stay connected and in control.

Ford’s enhanced Active City Stop collision avoidance system – now operative at speeds of up to 50 km/h – readies the brakes if a potential impact is detected and, if the driver does not respond, will automatically apply the brakes.

Also available on the Focus ST is Ford’s in-car connectivity system, SYNC 2, which offers access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones using voice commands, helping drivers to concentrate on driving with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. A high-definition, eight-inch color touchscreen displays the ST logo on start-up.

The new Focus ST will be available in China later this year.