@@nozopoke1782 they’re a brilliant all rounder. Great family car but you can take them for a blast of a weekend and have fun. Mine is now full stage two with 300bhp, it’s taken the car to another level.
Chris mine has keyless entry and push button and back up camera and upgraded sound system with 10 in sub, but just no sunroof or leather seats. Maybe it was a custom buy, cause I heard the recaros were terrible.
Let me just say this, I am NOT a Ford fan by any stretch, but I own a '14 Focus ST and I love it! It is not the e46 M3 I used to own, but it also did not cost $60k either. For the money I paid for it I feel like I got a whole lot of car.
Richard Martin, something about your comment makes me feel I can trust your opinion. My 04 Cooper S is getting tired and somewhat expensive to maintain. Theres no car out right now that I'm entralled with. This however, being in the same catagory seems worthy of consideration. I MUST have a manual trans, great handling, and good power to weight. Are you really pleased with the Focus? Is it a fun, tactile experience? Thanks, Rich S.
Mercoid yes I am very happy with this car. Again that is saying a lot as I am NOT a Ford fan. I have had it about 6 months now and have put a lot of miles on it (21k) and my only complaint so far is a couple of small interior rattles. If you research all the cars in this category you will find this is the biggest bang for your buck. Good luck with whatever you decide.
Thank you. I've never been a Ford fan either but in some respects it seems like they're getting their act together. I'm gonna have to test drive one. Thanks again!
I'll agree with you. I just bought one and it puts a grin on my face the whole time I'm driving it. It is very dynamic and if you can live with a simple interior and basic amenities, it should make you happy. The panel gaps are very even (not always the case with Ford), the fit and finish is good for a car this inexpensive, and the road feel is awesome. A mini would be a bit more plush on the interior, but the Focus has the advantage in other places IMO.
The new v-6 mustang is rwd irs and now can run a high 13 stock. I just can't see buying this FWD four door when you can get a true sports car that is rwd and a two door coupe at the same price. I could only buy a fwd or a 4 door, when you combine both its a definite no sale. I'm thinking a Brz or Gti are going to be my next test drives.
I got my Focus ST exactly 5 years ago and I never regretted my decision ever . The price/ performance of this car is unrivaled and where I live there are only a few examples making it truly unique. Thanks Ford and thank you Mr Leno .
Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well! Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248 Dearborn, MI 48126 Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Bought my ST about a week ago and i absolutely love it so far. Extremely fun to drive and practical. Pulls pretty hard in 1-3rd gear. Mine has an MBRP exhaust on it because the stock one is just a bit too quiet. 10/10 would recommend over that honda accord you might be considering
I recently bought a new 2017 Focus ST and absolutely love it. That is a lot of car for the money with a lots of power and excellent handling. Seeing this video several years ago really got me thinking about trading in my 2017 Focus SE for the ST and it was a no brainer. Jay knows his cars and his show is always interesting.
I owned a 2013 FoST briefly...when I was 47...it's without a doubt the most fun and exhilarating car I've ever driven...and that goes back to an '80 Camaro w/305, '68 Camaro w/350, 85' VW Scirocco, '89 Mustang LX w/302, and '88 Nissan Desert Runner in red/white/blue with with the Nissan VG30 engine...I traded her in for a 2019 Ranger last May...
I love my 2014 ST. Jay hits the nail on the head regarding the 18" wheels being a good size, although I did bend one in a small pothole within a month.
Jay cares enough about cars to bring us this show but doesn’t care so much about his personal looks. I’d say he’s got his priorities in order!! Thanks, Jay!
I love my 2014 Focus ST. moment I test drove it fell in love with it. in fact I chose it over the challenger srt8. I felt the ST feels like it has more power, less noisy, a lot better turning, more comfortable, and its just a perfect car for me and my wife and 3 kids.
Welcome to the club! I've had my 2014 about 18 months now and I love it, too. If you've got $600 to spare, I highly suggest a flash tuner and a Green Filter. Mine is putting down roughly 280HP/360TQ at the crank at 24PSI.
@@spyder0550 you are not putting down that much power lmao. I’ve got a 2018 stage 3 focus st on stock turbo making 260hp to the wheel and 355 ft lbs of torque. Stock turbo only boosts to 23.5 psi. As a stage 3 focus I push 22.5 so I know you’re bullshittin lol. Nice try tho
So I purchased a 2014 Focus ST and this video helped my decision. Special ordered, it was delivered in September 2014. It now has over 92,000 miles. Ford just replaced the original rear brakes, rotors, and rear bearings. It still has the original clutch. The turbo doesn’t leak a drop of oil. The interior doesn’t have a single body rattle. It has held up quite well. The motor runs like day one. Perhaps that bottle of Teflon Slick 50 I was saving at the time was well used. I treated the 2.0L DI Ecoboost when it had only 100 miles on it.
I don't know if it helped, but it certainly didn't hurt. I changed the oil on my '17 Fiesta ST at 135, again at 600, again at 2000, then went full synthetic at 5000. Still runs perfectly. Did I waste my money changing the oil so much? Maybe. I know it didn't hurt it.
Who really cares who designed it, German or American doesn't matter. The fact that Ford had the balls to not only build it, but make it global puts a big smile on my face. We'll done, and keep it up.
Jay talks about how bad the California roads are, even in comparison to the rest of the nation. It reminds me of a trip I took from Santa Barbara to Sedona last year. As you cross the CA/AZ border on Hwy 40 the road goes from total crap to a perfectly smooth ride. And this is a FEDERAL highway!
155 mph being electronically limited, I can not confirm or deny I put an aftermarket tune on mine and done over 155. (I got my ST up to 166 on the track) These are damn fun cars.
"In Europe, their noise restrictions are strict so we direct intake noise to the cabin." "Right. So you have inside decibel loud, outside decibel quiet." - J
This car is all about low to mid range power. The small twin scroll turbocharger spools VERY fast almost instantly which gives you amazing lowend and midrange torque! Most turbo 4cylinders are topend highrpm machines and lack the power where you really need it on the curvy back roads, roadcourse and autocross. This car will embarres many higher hp cars in shorter distances because of the instant huge hit of lowend torque,low gearing and its light weight! Not the fastest car I have owned, but nodoubt the most fun to drive and well rounded daily driver for under 30k after owning over 30 cars! GREAT job FORD PERFORMANCE, CONTINUE to listen to your customers and put out affordable fun vehicles.
Firstname Lastname Ask the same question to those guys that own one hundred pair of jordans but no car. I myself don't care much for clothes either, specially when working at a shop, what you want is something rugged and durable.
Thanks Jay for reviewing this car. Currently I have a 2012 GTI that I love. Now that I sell Fords for a living, I am buying a 2015 Focus ST ST3 to support the dealer and manufacturer. I knew I could count on you to ask the right questions from the manufacturer. Thanks again.
I picked up a 2013 ST in Tangerine with 80k miles - very clean. I've been dumping money into it (Bilstein B14 shock kit among other things) but I think its worth it - a unique car and great for dealing with the morning commute!
As a motoring enthusiast, I whole heartedly agree that vehicles are much more fun and engaging when paired to a manual transmission. BUT. . . . (yes there is a but) A person chasing pure performance, for the longest time chose the manual because it was the faster option. Now, automatic transmissions have far surpassed the capabilities of a manual. When you look at it from an engineering standpoint, it wouldn't make sense to pair certain cars to a manual transmission. (Certain McLarens, Lamborghini's, Ferraris, etc) There is so much emphasis in their design on pure speed, mating it to a manual would just hold them back. It'll almost be a waste. Now what's truly unfortunate is that the vast majority of the people with the luxury to afford such vehicles, never drove a manual, never learned car control, will never appreciate the brilliance of a Focus ST or a BRZ, and will forever be slaves to traction control, abs, stability control, and be content with never being able to really enjoy these machines because the prestige of owning an exotic car is enough for them. Its almost tragic. lol
+Mason Cruz I agree with you on your points, and would add too, that most true driving enthusiasts like myself, would always trade a slightly faster shift for the involvement and pure pleasure of shifting for yourself. You can't out a price or "stat" on that ;)
1970borntorun Nope, there is not stat for that. And thats why every vehicle I ever owned has had a clutch pedal. If I ever have GT-R money one day though, I'd totally pull the trigger on one and not be the slightest bit upset that I don't have a manual.
+Mason Cruz The new GT350R has IRS, N/A with over 520hp, over 8 grand red line, and a proper row your gears stick shift. I can't think of many cars out right now that offer so much for the money to true driving enthusiasts.
9:06 The Sound Symposer that Jamal is talking about here? Yeah, many Focus ST owners opt to remove it and toss it. In fact, many aftermarket suppliers make a Symposer Delete Kit for it. I just got mine but haven't installed it yet.
I had a 2002 Focus and I loved it. I saved up and got one of these. It's the best sounding 4 cylinder ever. Also, it's a car that makes you smile. I test drove a WRX, speed3, and gti while I was looking for a new car. This was the car that I couldn't stop smiling. Luckily, they let me test drive it without someone coming with me, because I gave it a real "test" drive. The Recaro seats need to be broken in though. The first month or so, the seats were pretty stiff, but they mold to your body over time.
Ford's world rally championship aspirations were farmed out to M sport in UK & they did very well, this global hot hatch is a direct result, racing improves the breed & win on sunday, sell on monday apply. A car that can take the kids to school, go shopping, do the daily commute, get the family to the holiday location & play road rally over a alpine pass is a wonder of modern technology. If you don't believe me, go and try a car of this type before telling me I don't know what I am talking about.
I think that fact than not everyone can enjoy the ST siblings is part of what makes them special. With so many manufacturers moving away from even offering a manual, it is really nice to know that Ford has something special for those who enjoy them. I do think that there is definitely a time and place for autos, too. After more than 20 years of owning vehicles with manuals, I have even contemplated buying a car with an auto next myself. It might be difficult to make the switch though.
If you are a car guy. You need to experience 300hp to the front wheels. Torque steer can be a lot of fun. RWD is best for performance but an over powered fwd car is fun as hell to drive.
I agree 100% Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well! Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248 Dearborn, MI 48126 Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Jamal is a terrific representative for Ford. As someone else said, he let the car do the talking, and he gave credit where due, in this case to Ford's European studio for developing the car. Integrity.
I love my fully loaded 2015 Mk3.5 ST. It's got the looks, the comfort, the handling, the power, the practicality and it's just a great car to use everyday and feel good in.
Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well! Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248 Dearborn, MI 48126 Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Mr. Leno you are my hero you always seem to say the nicest words if I had a father I would definitely want him to be like you take care my friend and I hope you get another show back because I will be watching. your friend Robert Satriano.
Got the chance to drive one at a Ford Ecoboost event this and the Fiesta ST drive beautifully! I'm totally in love with these cars and really happy Ford taking the initiative to bringing them to the USA and not watering them down. Thumbs up!
Suprised about the comment about US roads. UK roads are terrible too. Tyre manufacturers have to design tyres that bulge outwardly nowadays to protect alloy rims. I guess it's a global problem.
MegaVector2011 Yes, roads just suck. They're designed all wrong, and are expensive if you want to design them and build them correctly. You really have to "drive" these cars. You have to be an "active" driver with 17",18" or 19" rims and tires. With the SE I could plow pot holes etc. With my ST...no no no. Also, I put Nitrogen in the tire so I don't have to worry about pressure build or loss, EVER. If I have a flat, it's because the tire punctured. Good comments Gabe Boudreau - 2x World Driving Champion
+Roland Waites I owned a 1985 OMNI GLH which had low profile tires, and I live in Michigan. I drove it winter spring fall summer yes our road are pitiful. I never bent a rim. I have to admit she cornered flawlessly.
+G.R. Boudreau Roads are designed just fine but they are _not repaired_ and maintained as they should be. Diesel Science - German engineer living and working in USA.
Lovin' my ST. She's proven to be one of the best cars on the road. And for $23,600 sticker price, AMAZING more folks aren't driving this car. The RS is next, I'll keep my ST functional untill the 2017 or 2018 RS is available here. More than likely that will be my last car as it will have everything that I want in a car (performance, AWD, style, sexiness, safety, did I mention COSWORTH 2.5L 400+HP stock engine with a warranty?) Ford even called me on my birthday! Hell, the other 800+ friends didn't even say hello. I know who my friends are!
+Roland Waites Roland I had a 1985 Omni GLH. It was turbo and had low aspect ratio tires. She had amazing torque steer :). Back in the 80's a set of those tires were 600 bucks. I never bent the rims. Dinged them a few times. I love Michigan but it is hell on a car here.
I used to own a very rare SVT Contour which I absolutely loved! I could only imagine how fun this Focus ST must be. Especially after you start modding it :)
Top speed is legit, when a Civic SI hits 128 there car just stops....I pushed to 150 easy, left him sitting in the middle of the freeway. The acceleration climbed the whole time, I hit 150 and backed off, could have kept going.
Well yeah cars have different speed governors, im sure with no speed limiters both the SI and the ST would probably max out at around 155-160mph before they hit a aerodynamic wall.
@@Garf2O The ST has a much higher top speed than its competitors, I need to look into why. Yea I assume his engine stopped him but really? I had just thrown it into 6th felt so tight and nice what a bummer if so
Yes, very similar to diesel. The piezo injector has very fast respond time vs the old solenoid. It can inject up to 7 times per cylinder cycle. It can open partially or fully, depending on the amount of elec. current. At the same time, it gives feedback to the ECM of how much opening/fuel being injected. The ECM can then instantly either add more or reduce amount of fuel on the following injection.
I agree, Ford has been on their game with product lately. Last week, I drove both the Focus ST and Fiesta ST at a Ford driving event in Orlando and both cars were really impressive. Prior to driving one, I would have never dreamed I'd like any Fiesta however after the drive, I left wanting one. To me, the Fiesta ST is just a it more raw and much more tossable than the Focus. I like the rear bumper cover treatment on the Fiesta ST MUCH better than the Focus ST, too.
I've had my ST for about 5 months now, and it is pretty fun to drive, ran a 14.6 quarter mile, first time at the track, I cant get enough of the turbo spooling up, and when u do get torque steer, which is only around the curvature of the road, It is fun, ha. Idk its my first non n/a car, and I thoroughly enjoy it.
I really agree with you. I would love to buy one but I'm only 15 :( (I'm looking at cars to consider buying when I go for my first buy) Originally I was looking at the Civic Si but this has far surpassed that
I drove the Zipcar's Focus numerous times, and it's a very cool car inside and out .. it has a sporty feel to it.The interior is good quality, too. I would definitely consider buying one.
I have a Red Ruby Ford Focus Titanium sedan and I love it, good with gas very comfortable and very sporty and good looking, thank you FORD for the Focus.
Jay one thing you have to think about with the 115mph Firebird 455 was that it had a 3 or 4 speed direct drive transmission. The ST has a 6 speed OD transmission so it is a lot easier to spread it's power over the ratios so it can be used for acceleration, top speed and fuel economy. That Firebird with a new Tremec 6 speed would have fared a lot better as long as it wasn't too smogged out being a malaise era muscle car.
Hey Jay, the reason that classic Firebird 455 couldn't do much more then 115 was because of the axel gear ratio. Most had a pretty low ratio. Meant to launch off the line, not do 152.
Jay you really are every man in that you just love to drive. Thank you so much for being real. I hope one day to be able to see your garage in person. -Air Force Mike
Just picked up an '18 ST a couple of weeks ago. Crazy good car for the money, it's a real shame they're not continuing to sell them in the States after 2018. It's a ton of fun to drive but very practical and well made.
Agreed! Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well! Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248 Dearborn, MI 48126 Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
It may be the best hot mid-size hot hatch in America, but in europe this car is completely under the shadow of the Megane RS as far as performance, handling and fun goes. Ford Europe team did a good job, but Renault sport did a great one. (I will acknowledge for the hot superminis : it may be the other way around)
Ford is awesome... And as far as cars we did not pay a whole lot of attention to back in the day (even when they were still good-driving cars), auto companies are really improving these cars and pumping them up. The new Ford Focus is a great example of that. I know a guy who has a Mustang GT-he loves that car-and he still looks at the new Ford Focus with a near equal envy. Things are a-changin'
I regret selling my 2014 ST during COVID. That thing was the most fun car I've ever had for the money. Just got an RS for $22,000 more (I got the ST for $13k). I cant imagine it will be more than twice the car the ST was lol
The Focus has been assembled in Wayne, Michigan since 2011, but it is also assembled in Germany, Russia, Thailand, China and Taiwan. This is not surprising as it is the best-selling car in the world. We live in a world where Aston Martin Rapides are built in Austria and DB9s use doubled-up Ecotec V6s built by Ford in Cologne so everything is global now.
I just think it's too big to be FWD. It should come in AWD, than it would really compete against the WRX, it's the same price point. Now the Fiesta ST, that is an unrefined glory, I love that car. And compered to the price point of a GTI, oh hell ya that Fiesta ST is worth EVERY penny. But the Focus ST....I don't see it. For 26K, the WRX is far more appealing. The 2014 WRX Wagon or the 2015 WRX Sedan.
At its base it should be around 30k. Fully loaded probably looking at around 36k and that's the perfect price. Puts it in the price range of Evo and STI
I drove the Focus ST and Fiesta ST at a Ford driving event last weekend. Both cars were a blast and the shifter is one of the best I have ever experienced- buttery smooth and the just the right amount of travel from one gear to the next. Of the two, I think I like the Fiesta ST just a bit more because the lighter weight makes it feel just a bit more tossable however I do not think you can go wrong with either one. By the way Jay, one of these would look good in your garage next to the SHOgun!
Nice to see Jay featuring a car that an average person might buy.
What average person needs a car that can do 155 mph? Everyone! lol
@@bobjohnson1587 my bone stock BMW e90 which is essentially a family sedan hits 155 fairly easy
@@Law-Enduring-Citizen My bone stock Volvo 740 GL hits 155 fairly easily, too. 155kmh that is! 🙂
@@bobjohnson1587 At this price, why the hell not?
I like cars. I like red cars. I like red.
I see you rcr
@@eonix_ you’re quite observant
The man, the myth, the legend!
So Fawn-seh!
there he is
Focus ST is trully a special car for someone that has a family but still wants to have a bit of fun. Add a good exhaust and a tune and you are golden
Exactly why i bought one. Spot on description
I took the mid silencer off mine!
Over here we have the wagon version as well i have the 2016 version of the ST wagon
I found a 2013 st with only 18k miles. Are they really fun?
@@nozopoke1782 they’re a brilliant all rounder. Great family car but you can take them for a blast of a weekend and have fun. Mine is now full stage two with 300bhp, it’s taken the car to another level.
Well, so much for the "One Ford" mentality... I'm gonna miss cars like this in the U.S.
While in U.K they just got the new body style of the Fiesta and Focus
The Ford Focus is literally the most popular car in Ireland they sell like hot cakes
@@DublinDan I rather be there than here. A country whear bigger vehicles are better 🙁
IT'S STILL A GOOD LOOKING CAR IN 2019.
yeah i still cannot afford one ... at $2500 and up
@@Foozefighter Man if you found one at THAT price and can't afford it then that sucks.
I paid 7500 for my 2013 with 74k miles has clothe seats and no sunroof which I prefer
@@Adeadoornail7226 Absolute steal.
Chris mine has keyless entry and push button and back up camera and upgraded sound system with 10 in sub, but just no sunroof or leather seats. Maybe it was a custom buy, cause I heard the recaros were terrible.
God Bless 6 speed manual transmissions!
Let me just say this, I am NOT a Ford fan by any stretch, but I own a '14 Focus ST and I love it! It is not the e46 M3 I used to own, but it also did not cost $60k either. For the money I paid for it I feel like I got a whole lot of car.
Richard Martin, something about your comment makes me feel I can trust your opinion. My 04 Cooper S is getting tired and somewhat expensive to maintain. Theres no car out right now that I'm entralled with. This however, being in the same catagory seems worthy of consideration. I MUST have a manual trans, great handling, and good power to weight. Are you really pleased with the Focus? Is it a fun, tactile experience? Thanks, Rich S.
Mercoid yes I am very happy with this car. Again that is saying a lot as I am NOT a Ford fan. I have had it about 6 months now and have put a lot of miles on it (21k) and my only complaint so far is a couple of small interior rattles. If you research all the cars in this category you will find this is the biggest bang for your buck. Good luck with whatever you decide.
Thank you. I've never been a Ford fan either but in some respects it seems like they're getting their act together. I'm gonna have to test drive one. Thanks again!
I'll agree with you. I just bought one and it puts a grin on my face the whole time I'm driving it. It is very dynamic and if you can live with a simple interior and basic amenities, it should make you happy. The panel gaps are very even (not always the case with Ford), the fit and finish is good for a car this inexpensive, and the road feel is awesome. A mini would be a bit more plush on the interior, but the Focus has the advantage in other places IMO.
The new v-6 mustang is rwd irs and now can run a high 13 stock. I just can't see buying this FWD four door when you can get a true sports car that is rwd and a two door coupe at the same price. I could only buy a fwd or a 4 door, when you combine both its a definite no sale. I'm thinking a Brz or Gti are going to be my next test drives.
I got my Focus ST exactly 5 years ago and I never regretted my decision ever . The price/ performance of this car is unrivaled and where I live there are only a few examples making it truly unique. Thanks Ford and thank you Mr Leno .
Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well!
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Bought my ST about a week ago and i absolutely love it so far. Extremely fun to drive and practical. Pulls pretty hard in 1-3rd gear. Mine has an MBRP exhaust on it because the stock one is just a bit too quiet. 10/10 would recommend over that honda accord you might be considering
Jaion Cebollero LuL...OK - see you at the track...
Jaion Cebollero it would be pretty close in a straight line but around corners the st will be quicker
Andre G especially if s world champion driver was behind the wheel.
Best 😊
The funny thing is, my old car before my ST was an accord coupe and i must say i do not miss it at all.
do u still have it
I recently bought a new 2017 Focus ST and absolutely love it. That is a lot of car for the money with a lots of power and excellent handling. Seeing this video several years ago really got me thinking about trading in my 2017 Focus SE for the ST and it was a no brainer. Jay knows his cars and his show is always interesting.
Jay can you slam the trunk a little harder next time, thanks
I have an 18 st, and find that I often slam it too....
SchmidtDeutsch lmao you gotta remember he old school they use to have to slam the trunk the hood and the doors 🤣🤣
I mean it's just a car lol
I owned a 2013 FoST briefly...when I was 47...it's without a doubt the most fun and exhilarating car I've ever driven...and that goes back to an '80 Camaro w/305, '68 Camaro w/350, 85' VW Scirocco, '89 Mustang LX w/302, and '88 Nissan Desert Runner in red/white/blue with with the Nissan VG30 engine...I traded her in for a 2019 Ranger last May...
So glad Jay has this show. He us truly a class act. Guy is nervous as Jay knows so much.
B. Neeley it's scripted...
I love my 2014 ST. Jay hits the nail on the head regarding the 18" wheels being a good size, although I did bend one in a small pothole within a month.
Right right right right.
Let's bring in the chief engineer and then constantly talk over him
Yeah
Right
Babar the elephant 😂😂😂
Riiiiiight right right.....
Jay rockin' the double denim.
Always
Jay cares enough about cars to bring us this show but doesn’t care so much about his personal looks. I’d say he’s got his priorities in order!! Thanks, Jay!
He looks like he is just getting out of bed before doing these reviews.
This is freaky. I've been suddenly looking at several Focus Sts and really had my eyes on a 2013 model. Then this video comes up.
Me too i juste bought one today!!
Google is always listening.
It's obviously not casual. Depending on the settings on your devices you re being monitored 24/7 and your info is sold to advertising companies.
And telling us what to do
I love my 2014 Focus ST. moment I test drove it fell in love with it. in fact I chose it over the challenger srt8. I felt the ST feels like it has more power, less noisy, a lot better turning, more comfortable, and its just a perfect car for me and my wife and 3 kids.
I have a Fiesta ST. Love the car but too small for me my wife and 3 kids. luckily I have a toyota 4runner as the main family hauler.
i just bought a 14 ST two days ago. I LOVE IT.
Welcome to the club! I've had my 2014 about 18 months now and I love it, too. If you've got $600 to spare, I highly suggest a flash tuner and a Green Filter. Mine is putting down roughly 280HP/360TQ at the crank at 24PSI.
@@spyder0550 what tune are you using?
Thomas Gipson does the interior grow on you ? I kinda don’t know if I like it
@@spyder0550 you are not putting down that much power lmao. I’ve got a 2018 stage 3 focus st on stock turbo making 260hp to the wheel and 355 ft lbs of torque. Stock turbo only boosts to 23.5 psi. As a stage 3 focus I push 22.5 so I know you’re bullshittin lol. Nice try tho
Yes I love how it has no turbo lag . It makes my Mustang feel slow 🐌 getting away , but it seems it would catch up .
So I purchased a 2014 Focus ST and this video helped my decision. Special ordered, it was delivered in September 2014. It now has over 92,000 miles. Ford just replaced the original rear brakes, rotors, and rear bearings. It still has the original clutch. The turbo doesn’t leak a drop of oil. The interior doesn’t have a single body rattle. It has held up quite well. The motor runs like day one. Perhaps that bottle of Teflon Slick 50 I was saving at the time was well used. I treated the 2.0L DI Ecoboost when it had only 100 miles on it.
I don't know if it helped, but it certainly didn't hurt. I changed the oil on my '17 Fiesta ST at 135, again at 600, again at 2000, then went full synthetic at 5000. Still runs perfectly. Did I waste my money changing the oil so much? Maybe. I know it didn't hurt it.
Hey how many miles now you put ?
The man is brilliant. That car is fantastic, underrated, under appreciated, insane torque and handling.
Who really cares who designed it, German or American doesn't matter. The fact that Ford had the balls to not only build it, but make it global puts a big smile on my face. We'll done, and keep it up.
Jay talks about how bad the California roads are, even in comparison to the rest of the nation. It reminds me of a trip I took from Santa Barbara to Sedona last year. As you cross the CA/AZ border on Hwy 40 the road goes from total crap to a perfectly smooth ride. And this is a FEDERAL highway!
155 mph being electronically limited, I can not confirm or deny I put an aftermarket tune on mine and done over 155. (I got my ST up to 166 on the track) These are damn fun cars.
"In Europe, their noise restrictions are strict so we direct intake noise to the cabin."
"Right. So you have inside decibel loud, outside decibel quiet." - J
This car is all about low to mid range power. The small twin scroll turbocharger spools VERY fast almost instantly which gives you amazing lowend and midrange torque! Most turbo 4cylinders are topend highrpm machines and lack the power where you really need it on the curvy back roads, roadcourse and autocross. This car will embarres many higher hp cars in shorter distances because of the instant huge hit of lowend torque,low gearing and its light weight! Not the fastest car I have owned, but nodoubt the most fun to drive and well rounded daily driver for under 30k after owning over 30 cars! GREAT job FORD PERFORMANCE, CONTINUE to listen to your customers and put out affordable fun vehicles.
if Jay Leno so rich why he only have one shirt from 1993
$ goes to his car collection
HEY! Old shirts are cool!
Yeah what's up with that?
Firstname Lastname Ask the same question to those guys that own one hundred pair of jordans but no car. I myself don't care much for clothes either, specially when working at a shop, what you want is something rugged and durable.
army guy jackets
Thanks Jay for reviewing this car. Currently I have a 2012 GTI that I love. Now that I sell Fords for a living, I am buying a 2015 Focus ST ST3 to support the dealer and manufacturer. I knew I could count on you to ask the right questions from the manufacturer. Thanks again.
I picked up a 2013 ST in Tangerine with 80k miles - very clean. I've been dumping money into it (Bilstein B14 shock kit among other things) but I think its worth it - a unique car and great for dealing with the morning commute!
Thanks you mr Leno for giving kudos to ford for using a manual transmission.
As a motoring enthusiast, I whole heartedly agree that vehicles are much more fun and engaging when paired to a manual transmission. BUT. . . . (yes there is a but)
A person chasing pure performance, for the longest time chose the manual because it was the faster option. Now, automatic transmissions have far surpassed the capabilities of a manual. When you look at it from an engineering standpoint, it wouldn't make sense to pair certain cars to a manual transmission. (Certain McLarens, Lamborghini's, Ferraris, etc) There is so much emphasis in their design on pure speed, mating it to a manual would just hold them back. It'll almost be a waste.
Now what's truly unfortunate is that the vast majority of the people with the luxury to afford such vehicles, never drove a manual, never learned car control, will never appreciate the brilliance of a Focus ST or a BRZ, and will forever be slaves to traction control, abs, stability control, and be content with never being able to really enjoy these machines because the prestige of owning an exotic car is enough for them.
Its almost tragic. lol
+Mason Cruz I agree with you on your points, and would add too, that most true driving enthusiasts like myself, would always trade a slightly faster shift for the involvement and pure pleasure of shifting for yourself. You can't out a price or "stat" on that ;)
1970borntorun Nope, there is not stat for that. And thats why every vehicle I ever owned has had a clutch pedal. If I ever have GT-R money one day though, I'd totally pull the trigger on one and not be the slightest bit upset that I don't have a manual.
Mason Cruz Well, obviously if you're in supercar territory like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche etc, I could make an exception lol :)
Thats pretty much the long winded point I was making. lol
+Mason Cruz The new GT350R has IRS, N/A with over 520hp, over 8 grand red line, and a proper row your gears stick shift. I can't think of many cars out right now that offer so much for the money to true driving enthusiasts.
9:06 The Sound Symposer that Jamal is talking about here? Yeah, many Focus ST owners opt to remove it and toss it. In fact, many aftermarket suppliers make a Symposer Delete Kit for it. I just got mine but haven't installed it yet.
Bought myself a 2018 FoST and I love it. An awesome daily driver and is fun to drive. Brand new 5 miles out the lot, for 23k
Gettin one asap. I need a cheap,fun DD/Commuter for 50 mile Turnpkie runs each way. Whats ur mpg like ? My M5 gets 13.2 MPG 😯
I had a 2002 Focus and I loved it. I saved up and got one of these. It's the best sounding 4 cylinder ever. Also, it's a car that makes you smile. I test drove a WRX, speed3, and gti while I was looking for a new car. This was the car that I couldn't stop smiling. Luckily, they let me test drive it without someone coming with me, because I gave it a real "test" drive. The Recaro seats need to be broken in though. The first month or so, the seats were pretty stiff, but they mold to your body over time.
Ford's world rally championship aspirations were farmed out to M sport in UK & they did very well, this global hot hatch is a direct result, racing improves the breed & win on sunday, sell on monday apply.
A car that can take the kids to school, go shopping, do the daily commute, get the family to the holiday location & play road rally over a alpine pass is a wonder of modern technology.
If you don't believe me, go and try a car of this type before telling me I don't know what I am talking about.
I think that fact than not everyone can enjoy the ST siblings is part of what makes them special. With so many manufacturers moving away from even offering a manual, it is really nice to know that Ford has something special for those who enjoy them.
I do think that there is definitely a time and place for autos, too. After more than 20 years of owning vehicles with manuals, I have even contemplated buying a car with an auto next myself. It might be difficult to make the switch though.
It's the first car that I love driving that's front wheel drive 🚗 .
If you are a car guy. You need to experience 300hp to the front wheels. Torque steer can be a lot of fun. RWD is best for performance but an over powered fwd car is fun as hell to drive.
I really wish they would make these cars available in the states again. I LOVE my focus st and wish I could get the updated version in the future!!!!!
I agree 100% Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well!
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Jamal is a terrific representative for Ford. As someone else said, he let the car do the talking, and he gave credit where due, in this case to Ford's European studio for developing the car. Integrity.
7:43 "it's amazing how far turbos have come look at that no lag at all "
aaaand he's gone 😂
I love my fully loaded 2015 Mk3.5 ST. It's got the looks, the comfort, the handling, the power, the practicality and it's just a great car to use everyday and feel good in.
Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well!
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
Mr. Leno you are my hero you always seem to say the nicest words if I had a father I would definitely want him to be like you take care my friend and I hope you get another show back because I will be watching. your friend Robert Satriano.
I have a 2015 ST in the same color
I absolutely love the car.
Even with Torque Vectoring this car still torque steers like a beast.
Got the chance to drive one at a Ford Ecoboost event this and the Fiesta ST drive beautifully! I'm totally in love with these cars and really happy Ford taking the initiative to bringing them to the USA and not watering them down. Thumbs up!
Suprised about the comment about US roads. UK roads are terrible too. Tyre manufacturers have to design tyres that bulge outwardly nowadays to protect alloy rims.
I guess it's a global problem.
MegaVector2011 Yes, roads just suck. They're designed all wrong, and are expensive if you want to design them and build them correctly.
You really have to "drive" these cars. You have to be an "active" driver with 17",18" or 19" rims and tires. With the SE I could plow pot holes etc. With my ST...no no no.
Also, I put Nitrogen in the tire so I don't have to worry about pressure build or loss, EVER. If I have a flat, it's because the tire punctured.
Good comments
Gabe Boudreau - 2x World Driving Champion
+Roland Waites I owned a 1985 OMNI GLH which had low profile tires, and I live in Michigan. I drove it winter spring fall summer yes our road are pitiful. I never bent a rim. I have to admit she cornered flawlessly.
+G.R. Boudreau Roads are designed just fine but they are _not repaired_ and maintained as they should be.
Diesel Science - German engineer living and working in USA.
Lovin' my ST. She's proven to be one of the best cars on the road. And for $23,600 sticker price, AMAZING more folks aren't driving this car.
The RS is next, I'll keep my ST functional untill the 2017 or 2018 RS is available here. More than likely that will be my last car as it will have everything that I want in a car (performance, AWD, style, sexiness, safety, did I mention COSWORTH 2.5L 400+HP stock engine with a warranty?)
Ford even called me on my birthday! Hell, the other 800+ friends didn't even say hello. I know who my friends are!
+Roland Waites Roland I had a 1985 Omni GLH. It was turbo and had low aspect ratio tires. She had amazing torque steer :). Back in the 80's a set of those tires were 600 bucks. I never bent the rims. Dinged them a few times.
I love Michigan but it is hell on a car here.
I'm glad Jay is showing cars that are actually feasible to more of the audience instead of only the rare expensive exotics.
Nice Review of the Focus ST - Jay you really look tired in this Video Get some Rest we don't want to Loose you - Charles
Cr Cook we lost him. To being badass
I've had my ST for about 7 month and I LOVE IT!
Jamal, head of design... Can't describe how the Progressive steering or sport mode work.
I love Jay Leno's bed head. It looks like he just rolled out of bed and threw on the Canadian Tuxedo. Love it!
Jay when are you going to drive the Fiesta ST???????????????
Wizard Merlin I KNOW RIGHT
You missed out, Jay. You liked the Fiat Abarth. The Fiesta ST blows it away. I wish you'd tried it.
i just wish Jey Leno will live forever and never dies ,is this to much to ask
I used to own a very rare SVT Contour which I absolutely loved! I could only imagine how fun this Focus ST must be. Especially after you start modding it :)
Always wanted a svt contour. Just cant find one in good condition these days.
I had one years ago, bought an 2018 ST a week ago. It's similar but the ST is a little faster, little better steering etc. Feels very similar though.
I own one of these in race red, as shown here, and it makes life plain better. I enjoy driving again, even to work
Since Alan Mulally took over as CEO, Ford has shot from last in car reviews to the top. Amazing CEO. Completely changed FORD for the better
Top speed is legit, when a Civic SI hits 128 there car just stops....I pushed to 150 easy, left him sitting in the middle of the freeway. The acceleration climbed the whole time, I hit 150 and backed off, could have kept going.
Well yeah cars have different speed governors, im sure with no speed limiters both the SI and the ST would probably max out at around 155-160mph before they hit a aerodynamic wall.
@@Garf2O The ST has a much higher top speed than its competitors, I need to look into why. Yea I assume his engine stopped him but really? I had just thrown it into 6th felt so tight and nice what a bummer if so
I hope Jay brings a car show to television.
Totally agree
Palios33 c
Yes, very similar to diesel. The piezo injector has very fast respond time vs the old solenoid. It can inject up to 7 times per cylinder cycle.
It can open partially or fully, depending on the amount of elec. current. At the same time, it gives feedback to the ECM of how much opening/fuel being injected. The ECM can then instantly either add more or reduce amount of fuel on the following injection.
I am in love with this car
I friggin' love this car. It's on my highest, short list for my next car. Proud that Ford is offering some decent stuff for buyers.
I'm sad that jay doesn't have an episode with the fiesta st
Same here the Fiesta ST is a much better car than this sadly.
I really wish he had tried it. The handling is amazing, and with a mild tune, it can hang with the Focus ST, especially in the corners.
Agreed and would also like to see him review an S2k.
Yup agreed
Fiesta is for babys lol
I agree, Ford has been on their game with product lately.
Last week, I drove both the Focus ST and Fiesta ST at a Ford driving event in Orlando and both cars were really impressive. Prior to driving one, I would have never dreamed I'd like any Fiesta however after the drive, I left wanting one. To me, the Fiesta ST is just a it more raw and much more tossable than the Focus. I like the rear bumper cover treatment on the Fiesta ST MUCH better than the Focus ST, too.
“ We Actually Prefer Torque Steer” - Said NO ONE EVER
It’s quite fun to wrestle lol
“So yah know you gotta use your feet to drive this thing” thanks for that intelligent insight on how a manual works
Owned one of these and it was brill!
Wish they still made them here in the US. In Europe, especially Germany they have a big following.
Awesome car !!! Very popular car here in the U.K. and yes it's comes in right hand drive
I've had my ST for about 5 months now, and it is pretty fun to drive, ran a 14.6 quarter mile, first time at the track, I cant get enough of the turbo spooling up, and when u do get torque steer, which is only around the curvature of the road, It is fun, ha. Idk its my first non n/a car, and I thoroughly enjoy it.
What a beautiful car!...i realy like the new focus!.
I really agree with you. I would love to buy one but I'm only 15 :( (I'm looking at cars to consider buying when I go for my first buy) Originally I was looking at the Civic Si but this has far surpassed that
I drove the Zipcar's Focus numerous times, and it's a very cool car inside and out .. it has a sporty feel to it.The interior is good quality, too. I would definitely consider buying one.
Best 4-door car on the US market that can be had for 25 grand or less.
I have a Red Ruby Ford Focus Titanium sedan and I love it, good with gas very comfortable and very sporty and good looking, thank you FORD for the Focus.
I've found a few of these around my area with very low miles going for $19,995. Highly considering it...
Jay one thing you have to think about with the 115mph Firebird 455 was that it had a 3 or 4 speed direct drive transmission. The ST has a 6 speed OD transmission so it is a lot easier to spread it's power over the ratios so it can be used for acceleration, top speed and fuel economy. That Firebird with a new Tremec 6 speed would have fared a lot better as long as it wasn't too smogged out being a malaise era muscle car.
Jay looks like he just woke up. Thumb up if you agree.
maybe its allergies...
He high af
watfordman Jay stays high for sure.
mahadragon ii
Well he does live in California and he's a comedian so I wouldn't doubt it if he smokes weed lol. So maybe she just wake and baked.
Hey Jay, the reason that classic Firebird 455 couldn't do much more then 115 was because of the axel gear ratio. Most had a pretty low ratio. Meant to launch off the line, not do 152.
When's the RS coming on here?
Jay you really are every man in that you just love to drive. Thank you so much for being real. I hope one day to be able to see your garage in person. -Air Force Mike
I'm saving up for one 😭😭 I want it now.
+daniel rodriguez Your gonna love it, my favorite car I have ever owned by far
+daniel rodriguez Indeed, Get one. You will love it.
Save up for the new Ford focus RS! you get 100 more hp then the ST. It looks better and it has an intelligent AWD system etc..
Get a Fiesta ST. Much more fun.
.... everyone would recommend a focus rs. let him want an ST, jesus.
3660 miles on mine and still loving it
1:10 Funny, the sticker on my car said the engine was made in Spain.
and transmission in Germany. lol
Just picked up an '18 ST a couple of weeks ago. Crazy good car for the money, it's a real shame they're not continuing to sell them in the States after 2018. It's a ton of fun to drive but very practical and well made.
Agreed! Let's all do our part: call or write Ford US Customer Relationship Center and tell them what their American customers want. If we all contact them, maybe they'll realize it's a profitable business decision to bring the Mk4 Focus ST 6 spd manual transmission to the US/North American market. Wouldn't hurt to ask for the Fiesta ST and/or the Puma ST 6 speed manual as well!
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
Ford U.S. Phone: 1-800-392-3673
It may be the best hot mid-size hot hatch in America, but in europe this car is completely under the shadow of the Megane RS as far as performance, handling and fun goes. Ford Europe team did a good job, but Renault sport did a great one. (I will acknowledge for the hot superminis : it may be the other way around)
+Akorus No fucking way Focus would be under the shadow of Renault that just doesn't happen.
+Marko Lomovic Classical butthurt 'murican.
5shujin-sama I'm not American and Focus is German car. I just said what is truth if you don't like it is your problem.
Had a Grey 2012 Titanium, loved that car.
The first time I saw the current generation Fusion I thought I was seeing an Aston Martin. Ford totally borrowed that grill design. lol
It's because until a few years ago ford owned Aston and is still a 10-15% stakeholder in the company.
I believe they owed jag too, the fusion tale lights are jag-ish
Ford is awesome... And as far as cars we did not pay a whole lot of attention to back in the day (even when they were still good-driving cars), auto companies are really improving these cars and pumping them up. The new Ford Focus is a great example of that. I know a guy who has a Mustang GT-he loves that car-and he still looks at the new Ford Focus with a near equal envy. Things are a-changin'
I never like ford until i saw this car.
So true. I hate that people in the automotive world make such a big deal about where a car is made or what country the brand is from.
Jay looks like he just woke up.
I regret selling my 2014 ST during COVID. That thing was the most fun car I've ever had for the money. Just got an RS for $22,000 more (I got the ST for $13k). I cant imagine it will be more than twice the car the ST was lol
7:42 Did he say squirrel?
twin squirrel*
Twin scroll.
Red is the best Twin Sqcroll...but I heard "Squirrel" as well. I think he was star struck with Jay Leno! He seemed nervous...
The Focus has been assembled in Wayne, Michigan since 2011, but it is also assembled in Germany, Russia, Thailand, China and Taiwan. This is not surprising as it is the best-selling car in the world. We live in a world where Aston Martin Rapides are built in Austria and DB9s use doubled-up Ecotec V6s built by Ford in Cologne so everything is global now.
Honestly the ST is a decent car for under 25K
Its a great car for 25k
outlaw well Ford's turbo engines ate very unreliable.
Their failure rate is very high.
Sanic where is that info from?
ShooterMedic consumer reports.
Got a quote today. base model goes for just $20k! a brand new 155mph car for $20k!
Fords kicking so much ass these days. They've got everything. I wish jay would of gotten a hold of the fiesta st though.
I just think it's too big to be FWD. It should come in AWD, than it would really compete against the WRX, it's the same price point. Now the Fiesta ST, that is an unrefined glory, I love that car. And compered to the price point of a GTI, oh hell ya that Fiesta ST is worth EVERY penny. But the Focus ST....I don't see it. For 26K, the WRX is far more appealing. The 2014 WRX Wagon or the 2015 WRX Sedan.
Yeah. I agree. Maybe a system like the mazdaspeed 6.
And now coming soon the Ford Focus RS. Subaru has competition in the awd category now that Mitsubishi went another direction
Yeah, but if the st was expensive, boy howdy look at the rs.
At its base it should be around 30k. Fully loaded probably looking at around 36k and that's the perfect price. Puts it in the price range of Evo and STI
Sharod101 Yeah but the WRX is still a Subaru. Sorry.
I drove the Focus ST and Fiesta ST at a Ford driving event last weekend. Both cars were a blast and the shifter is one of the best I have ever experienced- buttery smooth and the just the right amount of travel from one gear to the next.
Of the two, I think I like the Fiesta ST just a bit more because the lighter weight makes it feel just a bit more tossable however I do not think you can go wrong with either one.
By the way Jay, one of these would look good in your garage next to the SHOgun!