New for 2015

The Ford Focus ST returns for the 2015 model year sporting several interior and exterior styling enhancements, as well as improvements to both handling and steering. Also new for 2015 is a rearview camera, which is now standard, and the addition of new options and amenities.

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Some people buy cars to be practical while others are fueled by passion. But wouldn’t it be great drive a car that lives effortlessly in both worlds? Well, guess what? There is, and it’s called the Ford Focus ST.

A member of the Focus family, the ST retains the strong practical foundation of its compact sibling but gains a competitive spirit unlike any other. It cranks up the intensity to levels the standard Focus simply can’t match. It’s a living, breathing expression of passion and pulse-quickening performance, and it’s your ticket to a helluva good time.

Powertrains and Performance

You want power? Good, because that’s what you’ll get with the 2015 Ford Focus ST. One the road, the front-wheel drive ST is a dominant force thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This potent powertrain serves up 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission that delivers excellent responsiveness and smooth and easy shifting. And here’s the real kicker: it gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined (23 city/32 highway).*

Naturally, the Focus ST’s performance is crazy—crazy awesome. Whether it’s the roar of the turbocharged engine – a sound you’ll never grow tired of – or the way it tires squeal as you rev toward 6,000 rpm, the ST is a true thrill that makes any old drive truly special.

Of course, it’s easy to mistake all that power for clumsiness, but the Focus ST is far from it. Toss it around a sharp corner and the ST exhibits remarkable composure. That’s due, in part, to a number of sophisticated mechanical aids, such as electric-assist power steering, electronic differential control and stability control systems, all of which help maintain traction without making the car feel emotionless. Believe us when we say that few cars make you feel as in touch with the road like the 2015 Focus ST.

But what about when you’re not living out your Mario Andretti fantasies on the road? Thankfully, the Focus ST is just as livable for day-to-day driving. The suspension is firm, which is to be expected, but not so much so that it inhibits ride quality. And the cabin is fairly quiet, really only piping up during hard acceleration.

Features and Trims

The 2015 Ford Focus ST is a performance-focused version of the Focus four-door hatchback that starts at a reasonable $24,370.**

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, performance summer tires, foglamps, performance brakes, an electronically controlled limited-slip front differential, and keyless ignition/entry. The Focus ST also comes standard with air-conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split-folding seatback. A standard rearview camera is new for 2015.

The Focus ST comes with a wide array of standard technology features, too. These include a Sync voice-activated phone and audio player interface and a six-speaker sound system—complete with CD player, USB/iPod® interface, and an auxiliary audio jack.

In addition to the standard features, the Focus ST is available with two different package upgrades. The ST2 package comes with a number of enhancements, including Recaro front sport seats, two-tone cloth/leather upholstery, and xenon headlights (among others), while the ST3 package adds on heated mirrors, heated front seats, full leather upholstery, and more.

Design

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Ford has found a winning formula with the standard Focus so we’re happy to report that, aside from larger wheels, a lower stance, and different lower body work, exterior-wise there is not much separating the ST from its standard siblings.

The Blue Oval has done an excellent job creating a strong, cohesive look throughout the model line. Rather than tarnish its already handsome sheetmetal, the ST forgoes superfluous design elements in favor of a more understated tone. It’s far from heavy-handed and one that will continue to look good well into the future.

Step inside and it’s a different story. The Focus ST blends utility and leading-edge design all in one sweeping and stylish cabin. Material quality is pleasing to the touch, and we highly recommend upgrading to the available Recaro front seats, which sport large side bolsters to help keep you snug and secure during hard cornering.

Cutting-edge technology is also within reach, serving as a focal point for the entire cockpit. The optional MyFord Touch system is piped through a large central display and provides plenty of customization options. Here you’ll find controls for various entertainment functions, and when you get tired of the using your fingers, the standard Sync voice command system is easy and intuitive to use.

Safety

Despite its penchant for performance, the 2015 Focus ST is equally committed to exceptional safety. Standard equipment includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, a driver knee airbag, front side airbags and side curtain airbags.

The Focus ST also comes with an emergency crash-notification feature that automatically dials 911 when paired with a compatible mobile phone. Also standard are blind-spot mirrors, a rearview camera, and Ford's MyKey system, which can be used to set certain restrictions for teen drivers.

Bottom Line

Fun, functional, and with frightening levels of performance, the 2015 Ford Focus ST is not your ordinary hatchback. Effortlessly weaving through turns and carving up corners is its specialty, while tackling life’s more trivial tasks its pleasure.

If you’re looking for a car that’s capable of putting a smile on your face all while meeting the needs required of a daily driver, then we’re happy to inform you that your search is finally over.

For more information, or to test drive the 2015 Ford Focus ST, be sure to contact or visit us at Gullo Ford of Conroe - The Woodlands today.

* EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary.

** Starting MSRP excludes destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included.

Image: Ford