Ford’s next global performance car won’t be a Mustang or radical supercar but something that started life as a compact economy hatch back. Going on sale in 2012 will be the Focus ST, which the company plans on using to attack the sales of Mazda Mazdaspeed3, Mini Clubman S, VW Golf GTi and other hot-rod economy rides. It carries the same philosophy that made other small Fords like the Focus RS and Escort Cosworth so iconic. But unlike those hot hatches, the ST is built to be truly global and will reach every Ford market. This way, drivers around the world can experience, as Ford puts it, “exhilarating performance, unrivaled handling, addictive sound and muscular sports design Ford’s Sport Technologies badge represents.”
Motivating the next ST will be something a little different. Where the last generation used a Volvo-sourced turbocharged straight five cylinder, the 2012 will get a Ford EcoBoost under its hood. Displacing 2.0 liters, this DOHC turbocharged inline four cylinder with direct injection and variable valve looks to pump out a stout 250 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. An ST specific six speed manual will be used with the final gear ratio set up for optimal highway cruising. Ford has yet to say any official word on fuel economy, but 30 plus mpg on the highway should be easily attainable. The ST shouldn’t be a simple corner carving monster either as it is still a practically set up five door hatch back. Refinement might even show its face with leather seating and typical Ford technology packed inside.
Debuting alongside the street ST will be one purpose built for the race track. Named the ST-R, the car has been prepped by Ford Racing of North America and features a FIA-Certified roll cage, big brake kit and a track tuned suspension set up. When it gets released, the ST-R will be able to run in events such as the Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and the Canadian Touring Car Series. At first, it will be only offered in North America, but there are plans to make it global soon after.
Source: Ford
