End of an Era: Ford Focus ST Edition Marks The Ultimate Tribute to Manual Hot Hatch Mastery
As we inch closer to 2025, whispers of the impending discontinuation of the iconic Ford Focus ST have turned into a resounding echo, amplifying the arrival of what could very well be its crowning glory - the Ford Focus ST Edition. This isn't just another car release; it's a heartfelt ovation to the manual hot hatch, a species on the brink of extinction in our rapidly electrifying world.
A Swansong Worth Every Note
The ST Edition emerges not just as a variant but as a beacon of performance, handpicked from the Track Pack's finest attributes. With adjustable coilover suspension by KW Automotive, calibrated for ultimate precision by Ford Performance maestros at the unforgiving curves of the Nürburgring, this edition promises an unparalleled driving experience. Brembo brakes and lightweight wheels further accentuate its track-ready stance, all while draped in the mesmerizing RS-inspired Azura Blue paint job - a nod to its rich lineage.
The Details That Count
Attention to detail is evident in every curve and corner of the ST Edition. From the High Gloss Black accents to the distinctive interior splashed with Motion Blue stitching, it’s clear this car was designed for those who appreciate finesse. The multi-spoke 19-inch alloys now shod in Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires - a shift from the Michelin Pilot Sports - are not just about aesthetics; they represent a 10 percent reduction in unsprung mass, translating to a more connected and responsive drive.
The interior doesn't fall short, offering a symphony of black leather and Alcantara, white stripes adorning the sport seats, and a suite of standard features including the B&O audio system, Driver Assist Pack, and Winter Pack. The commitment is to luxury and performance in equal measure.
Performance That Speaks Volumes
Under the hood, the ST Edition retains the turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering 276 hp of raw power to the front axle, managed by a six-speed manual gearbox. The inclusion of an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) ensures that power is not just a number, but a palpable force, propelling the ST Edition from 0-100 km/h in a mere 5.7 seconds.
A Price Tag for Exclusivity
Priced at £42,905 in the UK, the ST Edition commands a premium over its brethren, a testament to its exclusivity and the unique spot it holds within the Focus lineage. Its release in selected European markets is a final nod to the enthusiasts, a chance to own a piece of manual hot hatch history before the curtain falls.
With the discontinuation of the Fiesta ST and the Puma ST standing as the solitary ST-branded survivor in Europe, the Focus ST Edition stands not just as a car, but as a monument to an era. An era where the joy of driving was measured in gear shifts, and the thrill of the road was felt with every curve tackled manually.
Conclusion
As we bid adieu to the ICE-powered Focus, the ST Edition stands as a proud testimony to Ford’s legacy in the hot hatch arena. It’s more than just a farewell; it’s a celebration of the visceral connection between man, machine, and the open road - a connection that may soon become a reminiscence in our digitized automative narrative. For those who regard driving as a passion rather than just a means to an end, the Ford Focus ST Edition is a beacon of what once was and what we hope, against odds, may find a way to endure.