Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Tanner Foust gets eponymous hotted-up Ford Focus ST from Cobb Tuning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/tanner-foust-gets-eponymous-hotted-up-ford-focus-st-from-cobb-tu/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/tanner-foust-gets-eponymous-hotted-up-ford-focus-st-from-cobb-tu/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/tanner-foust-gets-eponymous-hotted-up-ford-focus-st-from-cobb-tu/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tanner Foust Cobb Ford Focus ST - front three-quarter view

Racer and Top Gear USA host Tanner Foust has partnered up with Cobb Tuning to create a special-edition Ford Focus ST. The limited-edition hatches will come packing a reflashed ECU, special intercooler, tweaked intake and freer-flowing exhaust for up to 20 percent more power than the stock creation. Cobb says that the changes should push the final dyno figure to above 300 horsepower. Buyers can also expect to find special carbon fiber aerodynamic bits on board along with a new grille, graphics and wheels. Cobb hasn't released pricing on this Tanner Foust Edition Ford Focus ST as of yet, but you can bet the whole kit won't be cheap.

Fortunately, the company will sell you bits and pieces from the overall package for your Ford, and word has it engineers are also whipping up a Foust Fiesta ST. Look for Cobb's Focus ST website to go live next month, complete with accurate specs and pricing. Until then, enjoy clicking through the gallery here. You can also check out the full press release below.

Continue reading Tanner Foust gets eponymous hotted-up Ford Focus ST from Cobb Tuning

Tanner Foust gets eponymous hotted-up Ford Focus ST from Cobb Tuning originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stcobb tuningfocusfocus stfordfoust focus sttanner fousttanner foust edition ford focus sttop gear usaThu, 14 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20500618/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/14/tanner-foust-gets-eponymous-hotted-up-ford-focus-st-from-cobb-tu/20500618/article-detail.xml 20500618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/foust-cobb-focus-st-628-1363267441_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/foust-cobb-focus-st-628-1363267441.jpg <![CDATA[Shelby unveils tuned Ford Focus ST, widebody GT500 Super Snake]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/shelby-ford-focus-st-gt500-super-snake-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/shelby-ford-focus-st-gt500-super-snake-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/shelby-ford-focus-st-gt500-super-snake-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Shelby American has made its name tuning various Ford products, and now the Focus ST can be added to this list. Just introduced at the Detroit Auto Show, the Shelby Focus ST doesn't add any extra horsepower under the hood, but it should still make sizable gains in performance thanks to an upgraded suspension, brakes and exhaust systems. Also on hand at the Shelby display was a widebody version of the powerful Shelby GT500 Super Snake.

Starting with the already-quick Focus ST, Shelby adds Ford Racing suspension components and bigger brakes with cross-drilled rotors, all finished off with a Borla exhaust system incorporating larger, circular outlets. Cheesy body graphics aside, some of the styling enhancements include functional hood vents, a hatch spoiler, unique interior bits and wider wheels and tires. Shelby does mention a tuning option that will increase the engine's 252-horsepower output to more than 300, although no pricing is mentioned. Speaking of price, Shelby says this souped-up hot hatch will carry a "budget minded price" (*ahem*). What is that you ask? Well, after you buy a 2013 Focus ST from your local Ford dealer (base price: $23,700), the Shelby upgrades will cost an extra $14,995. Production of these cars will be limited to just 500 units.

As for the Super Snake, Shelby is giving the car a wider optional body kit to accommodate the 10-inch front and 13-inch rear wheels. Customer can choose just the wider units at the rear or at all four corners. Opting for a "stock" 662-hp Super Snake will cost $28,995 on top of the cost of the Ford Shelby GT500, and if you're really flush with disposable income, there's a tuned 850-hp version for $39,995 (the widebody package is an extra $14,995). Scroll down for the official press release from Shelby.

Continue reading Shelby unveils tuned Ford Focus ST, widebody GT500 Super Snake

Shelby unveils tuned Ford Focus ST, widebody GT500 Super Snake originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2013 ford focus st2013 ford shelby gt500detroitdetroit 2013focusfocus stfordgt500shelbyshelby americanshelby gt500 super snakeTue, 15 Jan 2013 15:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428716/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/shelby-ford-focus-st-gt500-super-snake-detroit-2013/20428716/article-detail.xml 20428716 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-shelby-focus-st-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-shelby-focus-st-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Focus ST vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/2013-ford-focus-st-vs-2012-volkswagen-gti-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/2013-ford-focus-st-vs-2012-volkswagen-gti-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/2013-ford-focus-st-vs-2012-volkswagen-gti-comparison-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Can The Blue Oval Bad Boy Dethrone The Hot Hatch King?

2013 Ford Focus ST vs 2012 Volkswagen GTI

About three years ago to the day, fellow Senior Editor Seyth Miersma and I - during our respective tenures as editors at Winding Road - met on a cold, wet autumn morning to put the then-new sixth-generation Volkswagen GTI up against a slew of hot hatches for a comparison test cover story. Miersma and I share a love for this type of car, simply because they're affordable little runabouts that don't skimp on functionality while being hysterically fun to toss about. Actually, you'd be hard pressed to find a single member of the automotive media that doesn't hold at least one of these little rascals close to their heart.

If you want to dethrone the king, you have to beat the GTI at the very game it created.

The hot hatch hierarchy has long been capped with the GTI as king, and for good reason. Of all the vehicles offered in the segment, it has perhaps the best blend of the many facets we love about these cars, and it's the one that we'd absolutely open our wallets for year after year, generation after generation. So when a new kid comes to town, it doesn't completely matter how it stacks up against other competitors in the segment - if you want to dethrone the king, you have to beat the GTI at the very game it created.

Enter the 2013 Ford Focus ST, a car that Ford says will run circles around every other hot hatch available in the United States. The Blue Oval is out for blood with this one, and for good reason. After our first experience with the car overseas, we must admit, it's damn good.

So on yet another cold autumn morning, I found myself sitting behind the wheel of the brand-new Focus ST, following Miersma in the GTI out to the same roads we've flogged hot hatches down in the past. History indeed has a way of repeating itself, but with the potent little Ford now in its class, does the GTI still hold onto its crown?

Continue reading 2013 Ford Focus ST vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI

2013 Ford Focus ST vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen gti2013 ford focus stcomparisonsfeaturedfocusfocus stfordgtivolkswagenvwTue, 20 Nov 2012 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383863/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/20/2013-ford-focus-st-vs-2012-volkswagen-gti-comparison-review/20383863/article-detail.xml 20383863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/vw-gti-ford-focus-st-comparison_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/vw-gti-ford-focus-st-comparison.jpg <![CDATA[Cosworth preparing 330-hp Ford Focus ST for SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/cosworth-preparing-330-hp-ford-focus-st-for-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/cosworth-preparing-330-hp-ford-focus-st-for-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/cosworth-preparing-330-hp-ford-focus-st-for-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Cosworth Ford Focus ST CS 330

Cosworth has something special planned for SEMA 2012. Later this week, the company will unveil its take on the Ford Focus ST, complete with around 330 horsepower. The suitably named CS 330 is technically a concept car and features a few tweaks to turn up the grunt. Those include a new exhaust and intake as well as "improved thermal management." We take that to mean there's a revised intercooler at work on this hatchback, and we'd guess the minds behind this creation played a bit with the turbo set up as well. Cosworth hasn't released any specifics beyond that scant information, but from the looks of the rendering above, the CS 330 may feature revised brakes, new wheels and a few suspension tweaks.

We'll find out more when we see the Cosworth Ford Focus ST on the SEMA show floor in Las Vegas. Until then, you can chew on the brief press release below for a little more information.

Continue reading Cosworth preparing 330-hp Ford Focus ST for SEMA

Cosworth preparing 330-hp Ford Focus ST for SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stcs 330focusfocus stfocus st cosworthfordsemasema 2012Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20364106/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/31/cosworth-preparing-330-hp-ford-focus-st-for-sema/20364106/article-detail.xml 20364106 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cosworth-focus-st-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cosworth-focus-st-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST racing 2013 VW GTI around abandoned neighborhood - video screencap

Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin, Jr. are two of the masters of artistically abusing automobiles, so you know a video with both men in it is going to be a good one. In the fourth installment of the Focus ST Sessions series from Ford, Gittin and Block are given the keys to a 2013 Focus ST and a Volkswagen GTI, and then let loose in an abandoned neighborhood.

While the stunts in this video are nowhere near what either man is capable of performing in their respective racecars, it is essentially a two-minute-long Ford commercial showing the Focus ST's advantages over VW's standard bearer for the hot hatch class. The two cars tear through the deserted streets, allowing the Focus ST to show its strong off-the-line acceleration and slaloming ability through some construction barrels.

It's a pretty predictable video but still amusing to watch, so be sure to check it out below.

Continue reading Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood

Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus st2013 volkswagen gtifocusfocus stfordgtihot hatchken blockvaughn gittin jrvolkswagenvwWed, 31 Oct 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20362410/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/20362410/article-detail.xml 20362410 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/focus-st-vw-gti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/focus-st-vw-gti.jpg <![CDATA[Ford creates Focus ST Wagon cop car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/25/ford-creates-focus-st-wagon-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/25/ford-creates-focus-st-wagon-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/25/ford-creates-focus-st-wagon-cop-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The British crime thriller, The Sweeney, was centered around two cops tooling around in an unmarked, blacked-out, five-door, Ford Focus ST. It's only logical, then, that Ford serve pent-up demand for a true police-spec Focus ST.

Reporting for official duty is the Ford Focus ST estate, complete with full cop livery, LED light bar and a mobile data terminal.

Ford says the 2.0-liter 252-horsepower EcoBoost can propel pursuing police to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds and top out at 154 mph.

The one-off demonstrator was paraded out at the National Association of Police Fleet Managers' (NAPFM) Conference and Blue Light Fleet Exhibition in Peterborough recently.

"With the Ford Focus ST being seen so publicly on cinema screens nationwide, the timing for this 'official' version couldn't be better," said Terry Adams, Ford's Direct Sales Manager for Police, Fire & Ambulance in the press release. "At the NAPFM show we displayed the car's crime-fighting talents to police transport managers and took bookings for demonstrations."

Read the full press release below.

Continue reading Ford creates Focus ST Wagon cop car

Ford creates Focus ST Wagon cop car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stecoboostford focus st estateford focus st policelaw enforcementnapfmpolice carthe sweenyThu, 25 Oct 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20359688/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/25/ford-creates-focus-st-wagon-cop-car/20359688/article-detail.xml 20359688 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ford-focus-police-estate-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ford-focus-police-estate-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford teases five SEMA-bound Focus ST concept cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/ford-teases-five-sema-bound-focus-concept-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/ford-teases-five-sema-bound-focus-concept-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/16/ford-teases-five-sema-bound-focus-concept-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ford has revealed a few images of five tuned Focus ST concepts that will be shown off at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas this month. None of this group of five is overly subtle, which would run counter to the spirit of SEMA itself, and all hope to highlight the performance nature of Ford's newest hot hatch. In no particular order then, here are the quick-and-dirty facts on each car, in advance of the full details out of Vegas:

  • 2013 Ford Focus ST by Tanner Foust Racing (top): X Games warrior Tanner Foust wanted his ST to be able to go from work to the track, while not being too harsh for commuting in Southern California. A body kit, MagnaFlow exhaust and fully adjustable front and rear suspension have been added.
  • 2013 Ford Focus ST by Bojix Design (upper left): The Bojix Design car stands out mostly for its eye-catching orange paint, black hood and low-rider stance. Upgraded brakes and coil-over springs are noted performance adds.
  • 2013 Ford Focus ST by M&J Enterprises (upper right): M&J partnered with Ford, Cosworth LLC for ultimate performance. Ford Racing engine and suspension upgrades result in an aggressively fast car putting out some 330 horsepower.
  • 2013 Ford Focus ST by Galpin Auto Sports (lower left): The sinister Galpin car, rocking some shockingly green wheels, was meant as a rally car-inspired build. The menacing looks of the body kit are backed by methanol injection and larger brakes, creating a car that the tuner claims is rally-ready.
  • 2013 Ford Focus ST by Steeda Autosports (lower right): Steeda has added its own "G-Trac" suspension to its SEMA Focus, as well as Brembo brakes and a custom 19-inch wheel and tire package.

Continue reading Ford teases five SEMA-bound Focus ST concept cars

Ford teases five SEMA-bound Focus ST concept cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stbojix designcosworthfocusfocus stfordgalpin auto sportsmj enterprisessemasteedatanner fousttunerTue, 16 Oct 2012 19:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20351336/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/16/ford-teases-five-sema-bound-focus-concept-cars/20351336/article-detail.xml 20351336 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-focus-sema-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-focus-sema-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford pits Focus ST against its rivals... including a BMW M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/02/ford-pits-focus-st-against-its-rivals-including-a-bmw-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/02/ford-pits-focus-st-against-its-rivals-including-a-bmw-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/02/ford-pits-focus-st-against-its-rivals-including-a-bmw-m3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ford Focus ST vs BMW M3

Just about every car in the industry has a short list of natural rivals. The way we see it, the cars going head-to-head with the 2013 Ford Focus ST are the Mazdaspeed3, Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI. Consider: each of these models has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and is offered in a five-door hatchback shape.

One car we wouldn't naturally think of as a competitor to the Focus ST, though, is the BMW M3. Ford, on the other hand, seems to think the two models can be stacked up against one another... well, enough at least to include BMW's V8-powered screamer in its latest web video for the ST.

Here are some stats: The Focus ST boasts 252 horsepower, 270 pound-feed of torque and costs $24,495. The BMW M3 pumps out 414 horses, 295 lb-ft and gouges the wallet to the tune of $62,295... not to mention the fact that it has two doors and a trunk instead of hatch. Not much in common, then.

Curious to see how Ford pitches the Focus ST against the BMW M3? Check out the video below.

Continue reading Ford pits Focus ST against its rivals... including a BMW M3

Ford pits Focus ST against its rivals... including a BMW M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw m32013 ford focus stbmwfocus stfordm3videoThu, 02 Aug 2012 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20292243/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/02/ford-pits-focus-st-against-its-rivals-including-a-bmw-m3/20292243/article-detail.xml 20292243 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-focus-st-bmw-m3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-focus-st-bmw-m3.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Focus ST gets 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway ratings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2013-ford-focus-st-gets-23-mpg-city-32-mpg-highway-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2013-ford-focus-st-gets-23-mpg-city-32-mpg-highway-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2013-ford-focus-st-gets-23-mpg-city-32-mpg-highway-ratings/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST - yellow - front three-quarter view, dynamic

Ford has released the official Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy ratings for its 2013 Focus ST. The hottest of Blue Oval hatches will manage 32 mpg highway, 23 mpg city and 26 mpg combined from the turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecoboost four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. Ford notes those numbers best both the Volkswagen GTI five-door at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway and the MazdaSpeed3 at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. At 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, the Focus ST also bests the Volkswagen in power, but loses that fight to the Mazda.

Judging by our recent first drive, that doesn't stop the machine from being plenty entertaining, however. With a conservative 0-62 mph time of 6.5 seconds and a top end of 155 mph, this is about as far from a rental Focus at the Hertz lot as one can get. For comparison's sake, the base, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder Focus is capable of up to 40 mpg highway with a special fuel economy package, but it also delivers 92 fewer horsepower and far fewer thrills. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Focus ST gets 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway ratings

2013 Ford Focus ST gets 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stecoboostenvironmental protection agencyepafocusfocus stfocus st fuel economyfordford focusford focus st fuel economyThu, 12 Jul 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20276770/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/12/2013-ford-focus-st-gets-23-mpg-city-32-mpg-highway-ratings/20276770/article-detail.xml 20276770 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-focus-st-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-focus-st-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Focus ST]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/2013-ford-focus-st-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/2013-ford-focus-st-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/2013-ford-focus-st-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screaming Yellow Zonker



We're having a strong sense of déjà vu, and it isn't just because we find ourselves in Southern France. Yes, we've driven these very roads that drape over the region's Edenic mountains like doctors' signatures several times before. They're some of the best in the world, replete with tight switchbacks bookending snaking climbs and descents interrupted only by the occasional masochistic cyclist or tour bus. The Mediterranean vistas don't exactly suck, either.

We've even navigated some of these routes around Nice in a performance-minded Ford Focus. Two years ago, Blue Oval operatives brought us to this same area for an early drive of their C-Max people mover, spicing up the trip by giving us a short stint behind the wheel of their then-new Focus RS500, a limited edition matte-black monster marshaling a scarcely believable 345 horsepower and 338 pound-feet of torque through the front wheels. Today, though, our 2013 Ford Focus ST driving companion is toned-down but no less outré thanks to its Tangerine Scream paint.

Compared to the RS500, the ST drops a cylinder in favor of a less powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost four generating 252 hp and 270 lb-ft. Fortunately, it's also a lot less costly, starting from just $24,495 delivered - a price that shades the far less powerful 200-hp, five-door Volkswagen GTI ($25,365). In fact, the ST is nearly as powerful as the Golf R while offering more torque (VW's all-wheel drive hot hatch registers 256 hp/243 lb ft) for a lot less money - the R starts around $35k. Subaru's AWD WRX is an interesting option, too, with more power (265 hp) but less torque (244 lb-ft) for more money ($26,345). The ST's closest natural rival, however, is the Mazdaspeed3 - ironic, as it rides atop the last-generation Focus' platform. The Mazda carries a marginally bigger stick, though: 263 ponies and 280 torques, coming in at $24,795.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Focus ST

2013 Ford Focus ST originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stecoboostfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefocusfocus stfordhau thai-tangstMon, 25 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20264851/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/25/2013-ford-focus-st-first-drive-review/20264851/article-detail.xml 20264851 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/08-2013-ford-focus-st-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/08-2013-ford-focus-st-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford crowdsources first Focus ST commercial for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/ford-crowdsources-first-focus-st-commercial-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/ford-crowdsources-first-focus-st-commercial-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/ford-crowdsources-first-focus-st-commercial-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Focus ST

Ford has released the first ad for the company's upcoming Focus ST. The automaker headed to the warm streets of Key West with Tanner Foust and stunt driver Greg Tracy to give spectators a glimpse of the hot hatch's capabilities. The two wheelmen spent the evening tearing around closed sections of city streets with plenty of onlookers on hand, but there's a twist. Instead of relying on a professional film crew to capture the high-horsepower antics, Ford asked those in attendance to submit their own footage of the show. Throw in a little clever editing and we have a solid minute of sideways Focus ST action.

The 2013 Ford Focus ST starts at $24,495 and offers buyers a rash of go-fast hardware, including a turbocharged, 252-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 270 pound-feet of torque. A torque-steer compensation system keeps the heathen Focus pointed straight, and those willing to pony up a little extra cash can enjoy Recaro bucket seats indoors. Scroll down to check out the clever spot for yourself.

Continue reading Ford crowdsources first Focus ST commercial for U.S.

Ford crowdsources first Focus ST commercial for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 focus st2013 ford focus stcrowdsourcingfocusfocus stfocus st adfocus st videofordford focus stgreg tracykey westsocial mediatanner foustvideoTue, 05 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251751/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/ford-crowdsources-first-focus-st-commercial-for-u-s/20251751/article-detail.xml 20251751 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ford-focus-st-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ford-focus-st-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[Could Ford's Fiesta RS outmuscle Focus RS production hopes?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/could-fords-fiesta-rs-outmuscle-focus-rs-production-hopes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/could-fords-fiesta-rs-outmuscle-focus-rs-production-hopes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/could-fords-fiesta-rs-outmuscle-focus-rs-production-hopes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Ford Focus RS - studio - front three-quarter view, blue

While we wait patiently for the fall launch of the 2013 Ford Focus ST - and for Ford to decide whether the U.S. market is worthy of the three-door Fiesta ST - our English-speaking friends overseas are consumed with other worries. Like whether the next Focus RS will, in fact, be a Fiesta.

Autocar says Ford still hasn't decided what form the next generation of its ultrahatch will take, and that it is weighing the pros and cons of using both models for the next RS. On the one hand, the Fiesta is already being campaigned in the World Rally Championship with RS badging. The pint-sized hatchback is also available as a three-door (although not in the U.S.), a bodystyle that is reportedly viewed as more befitting an RS model. But the larger Focus will likely fetch larger profits, not to mention being more suitable for sale in the States, Autocar guesstimates.

Hey, at this point, we'll take either. Or both.

Could Ford's Fiesta RS outmuscle Focus RS production hopes? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus stfiestafiesta rsfiesta stfocusfocus rsfocus stfordrsFri, 01 Jun 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20249734/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/could-fords-fiesta-rs-outmuscle-focus-rs-production-hopes/20249734/article-detail.xml 20249734 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/00focusrsblue-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/00focusrsblue-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford taking Focus ST around America with free Performance Academy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-taking-focus-st-around-america-with-free-performance-academ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-taking-focus-st-around-america-with-free-performance-academ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-taking-focus-st-around-america-with-free-performance-academ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST - Yellow - Dynamic front three-quarter view

Ford is giving the public at large a chance to jump behind the wheel of its upcoming 2013 Focus ST. The company is hosting a slew of consumer driving events around the country where consumers will be able to take the wheel for a little driving training and timed laps on an autocross course. The tour starts on June 30 in New York before moving on to Washington, D.C., Boston, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Each event starts at 9am. and features a full day of getting cozy with the new sport hatch. Festivities close out at 6pm sharp.

If you want to get in on the fun yourself, you'll need to preregister for the event by heading over to shindig's site. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and considering it's free, we'd be willing to wager that spaces will fill up quickly. We can think of worse ways to spend a Summer Saturday. Check out the full press blast for yourself, including a complete schedule.

Continue reading Ford taking Focus ST around America with free Performance Academy

Ford taking Focus ST around America with free Performance Academy originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 focus st2013 focus st drive event2013 ford focus steventfocus stfordford focus stWed, 30 May 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20247663/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/30/ford-taking-focus-st-around-america-with-free-performance-academ/20247663/article-detail.xml 20247663 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-focus-st-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-focus-st-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST - yellow - front three-quarter view

To say that we're eager to drive the 2013 Ford Focus ST is one of the understatements of the year. After seeing lots of photos and videos, we can't wait to get Ford's new hot hatch out on the road, and now, we have a pretty good idea of what sort of aural stimulation the turbocharged Focus will provide while we're tossing it about.

Ford understands that a good engine and exhaust note is an important part of any performance car's overall experience, and to that end, the automaker has implemented some interesting technology with its Focus ST. Engineers have added a special sound tube - called a sound symposer - to the ST, which specifically enhances the throaty, low-end frequencies of the exhaust. This sort of sound tube has been used before (on the Mustang and Mazda MX-5 Miata), but here in the Focus ST, there's an electronically controlled valve that opens and closes based on specific driver inputs. What's more, this valve is mapped more aggressively in lower gears for great sounds during acceleration, but stays shut more often in higher gears to allow for quieter highway cruising.

But enough of the technical mumbo-jumbo. Click the play button below to hear what the end result sounds like during an acceleration run in the Focus ST.



We like what we hear, though we'll wait to see just how it sounds when things like road and wind noise are factored in during the overall driving experience. Scroll down for Ford's official press blast.

Continue reading This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio]

This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus staudioengineexhaustfocusfocus stfordford focusford focus stsound symposerMon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/20237726/article-detail.xml 20237726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-ford-focus-st-naspec_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-ford-focus-st-naspec.jpg <![CDATA[Ford prices 2013 Focus ST from $24,495* [UPDATE: Configurator launches]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/ford-prices-2013-focus-st-from-24-495/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/ford-prices-2013-focus-st-from-24-495/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/ford-prices-2013-focus-st-from-24-495/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST - gold - front three-quarter dynamic driving shot

UPDATE: The Focus ST has officially been added to Ford's configurator. Click here to build one yourself.

Well now, the inexpensive performance game just got considerably more interesting. Ford has officially dropped pricing on its upcoming 2013 Focus ST, and it starts at $24,495 (*including a $795 delivery charge). That kind of coin will net you a EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for a whopping 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, along with a torque-steer compensation system that works in conjunction with electronic power steering to keep the nose pointed in the right direction. If you're keeping track, those power metrics are slightly north of the figures Ford had previously released. A variable-ratio steering rack toes the line between sport and comfort while the sport suspension sits the chassis 10 mm closer to the ground than the stock configuration.

That fire-spitting four-cylinder breathes easy through a free-flowing exhaust, and interior options like Recaro bucket seats give the cabin a little pedigree. Of course, massive wheels and plenty of aero work are both part of the package as well. What's more, Ford says it will give early buyers a GoPro HD Hero2 Motorsports camera when they pick up the keys. Sweet.

The entry price puts the Focus ST well below fellow front-drive competitors like the Volkswagen GTI and Mazdaspeed3, but within spitting distance of playful hardware like the Toyobaru twins and the all-wheel drive Subaru WRX. Suddenly, it appears we live in a world where cheap speed is in abundance. Head over to the Ford site for a closer look and be sure to click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Ford prices 2013 Focus ST from $24,495* [UPDATE: Configurator launches]

Ford prices 2013 Focus ST from $24,495* [UPDATE: Configurator launches] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 May 2012 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus st2013 ford focus st pricingfocusfocus stfocus st msrpfocus st pricingfordford focusTue, 01 May 2012 09:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20228039/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/01/ford-prices-2013-focus-st-from-24-495/20228039/article-detail.xml 20228039 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-ford-focus-st-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-ford-focus-st-628.jpg -1 2