New Ford Focus ST on undercover mission

HEAVILY disguised versions of Ford’s Focus taking to the streets can mean only one thing—testing of the new ST is underway.

Ford have confirmed that no fewer than 60 Focus ST test mules are currently covering huge miles on roads from California to the Nurburgring ahead of its launch early next year.

The new ST will ditch the last car’s turbocharged 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine, and its distinctive off-beat timbre, in favour of a more frugal turbocharged two-litre unit.

But the change will also bring a power hike which will see a stable of 247 horses installed under the new, sleeker Focus’ bonnet, rather than the 2.5’s 222bhp.

Ford has also promised to continue its reputation for bold paintwork while introducing a distinctive centre-exit, double exhaust.

A lower driving position should also iron out one of few gripes about the previous car.

Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles, confirmed: “We’ve done all the engineering groundwork, and now we’re using some of the most demanding roads we can find in Europe and North America to validate and fine tune the performance and driving dynamics.”

Chief engineer, Matthias Tonn, added: “We’re fine-tuning, testing, and fine tuning again many of the small but critical details to make sure it is worthy of the ST badge.”