I've lost count how many times I re-watched this video while waiting for mine. Thank you for one of the most in-depth reviews that helped me make up my mind on which hot hatch to get. I think I would have been bored in any of the VWs. This thing grips the road unbelievably well and for stock power in a hot hatch....just wow. Smiling ear to ear every time I get in for a drive. Piece of advice to anyone that is considering the Focus ST, you won't be sorry, just make sure you get it in the 6-spd manual and not the auto. Thanks again!
@@Ierdna1190 So I considered the automatic given my previous SUV was an auto and it's just comfortable to drive without worrying about shifts. Having said that, the manual gearbox on this ST is so damn smooth and you feel a lot more connected with the car when driving it in a spiritied manner, especially on some nice winding roads. The hot hatches that I've owned over the years have always been manual so I know how they compare to an auto and my personal opinion, you get more of a thrill with the manual. I also did some reading and found that the automatic gearbox isn't the greatest in this car either. Another one is that you get the pops and bangs with the manual whereas the auto doesn't (I stand to be corrected). Overall, it's been almost a year now that I've had the ST and I'm still like a kid on Christmas when I know I'm getting in to go for a drive. Hope this helps :)
As a European now living in the US, I really hate the fact Focus ST is no longer available here in the US. I like the way it looks, it's a great evolution to the size and this seems like a perfect hot hatch option with good practicality. I've gone from a 252hp Accord 2.0t with 6spd to a 480hp Bullitt, but I still would love to have this as an additional tossable car.
@@wubascuba I'm on the same boat with my '13 Ford Focus dual clutch transmission that has a TCM crap out at 88k miles. No idea how I'll get another one. Is this issue as prevalent for people who drive a MANUAL focus though?
This is the most honest carreview ever made. He destroys some features and loves other ones immensly. No other tester and especially no salesman would ever do that. I like this way more than these stupid sales pitches.
I got mine since 2 weeks and i love it. In real live looks the color so amazing. And the seats are unbelivable. The handling and steering are also a dream. Very good job ford👍🏻
I got one 2 years ago by accident from Hertz Car Rental in Germany. I had it for 6 months because I did not like to give it back, so I extended the rent over and over again. I even took it to the Nordschleife for some track action. I was truly truly surprised by that car! I had so much fun in it! I took it to Hungary, Austria and Croatia for vacation. I moved to the US by the end of 2020 and a friend of mine drove it another two weeks until the rent was over. Great car, much more fun than any Golf or whatever.
Yeah makes me so😡! I had a 2012 Focus SE hatchback. Loved that car and would've bought a next gen in a heartbeat. First Ford announced that they would only sell the 2019 Mk4 Focus as the Active version in the U.S., then a few months later...... Ford nixed that and stated the Focus would be discontinued altogether in the U.S. Big mistake I made was that when I went to trade in my Focus in 2018, the dealer had a brand new holdover 2017 Focus ST (base) in Race red with the black 5 spoke wheels. At the time my reasoning for not getting it was that I had recently bought a house and figured I would need more cargo space to haul stuff. Plus it had summer tires and I live in a snow state so I would have had to buy at least some all seasons. I regret it. I should have bought it. I could have rented a pickup if i really needed to haul big stuff. Ah well hindsight is 2020.
I’ve recently brought the preface-lift a few weeks as my first hot hatch/performance car and I absolutely love it, everything about it is just amazing, and driving it everyday really does put a smile on my face - can’t wait to do some mods soon 👌🏽
You and me both, fella. Ford is basically truck, electric, or Mustang. And that's me saying it as an F150 and Bullitt owner, but they can do so much more than just this.
Coming from someone who used to own the mk3 ST and switched to Audi instead of getting the mk4 pre-fl, sometimes i do wonder why they don't try to challenge the german manufacturers with a more expensive model because clearly, they know how to build a really good car with great balance between comfort and performance. But the plastic interior and some other aspects where they save money are kind of a turn off even if it looks better than before.
I had a 2013 Focus ST ... loved it, and it loved me. 44,400 miles in 7 years ... had to replace ONLY the Battery, and that took 6.5 years to need that ... I will go to Germany and bring this car back to the USA ... Just need a MPH face for the Speedo ... LOVE THIS CAR ... Manual of course !
Well done review with all relevant topics covered IMO. Wish we could get this in the US! I have 2014 ST that I love, but it wont last forever. And your traffic really sucked this time - like trying to drive near a city in the US with all the clueless idiots jumping into the left lane going really slow.
@@8eight881 ive got a 2013 tux black st with 151k miles and im about to sell as I need a truck. Sad but gotta do what i gotta do. I'd love a mk4 though. they look amazing
Interesting comment rarely seen so I have to reply as a Mk4 ST owner. You are right, Although I never ever look into the dash relying upon what I see int he HUD, would be nice to see what gear is selected even though up and downshift indicators with the gear are shown in both the HUD and dash on my pre-facelight.
The Dream daily for me personally, I drive 2011 1.8 TDCI and the balance of the car is amazing, I enjoy cornering with it, always with a massive confidence. I can only imagine dumping this ST in the corners will be orgasmic !!! :)
15:21 those numbers car companys put online are from drag strip with "preped" surfaces aka they spray sticky stuff down to give the tires better traction
Too bad this is the last generation of Focus. A historic car comes to an end. Fiesta is rumored to follow. They had exceptional ride quality, but in Ford they have lost their minds the last 3-4 years.
I did 5,7 seconds with a passenger. You have to be perfect on the gas so your tires wont slip and change gears really fast. You also can stay on the gas while shifting but idk if it is good or bad für the Engine
Personally I'd go for the i30 N because it seems to be better to drive, it's faster and the slightly smaller engine means you'd pay less tax where I'm from (anything above 2 liters is taxed like hell). That being said I do like the Ford's looks and it might be better as a daily driver. Alternatively just go for whatever's cheapest.
@@LIONtib Asta cu motoru de 2.3 ai dreptate. Tot timpul uit acest aspect. 😅 Plus garantia de la Hyundai... Problema in Ro e ca la I30N aduc doar varianta DCT desi la cat de bine primita a fost cutia posibil sa ma "convertesc" la automata. E singurul motiv pentru care inca nu am comandat I30n-ul...
The i30N is slightly quicker, the Focus has more tech (matrix LED and adaptive cruise control, even with the manuals) and a slightly nicer interior. I'd test drive and negotiate prices for both. I ended up buying the ST as I got a fully equiped limited "Edition" model for about 37.000€, and the fully equipped manual i30N I test drove would've cost about the same with less tech.
@@JazzysTrove La o masina de genul nu stiu daca are sens sa iei automata, dar din cate stiu cea de pe i30 N e printre cele bune. Plus ca Ford nici nu stiu daca mai primeste comenzi pentru Focus. E ciudat, abia au scos facelift-ul si acum vor sa inchida productia de Fiesta si Focus, inclusiv ST.
By the way, the fake sound can easily be deactivated with an OBD2 adapter and a program called Forscan. Tankes 2 minutes, super simple and the car sounds much better without it. 😁 Best 0-100 I measured in mine was 5.9 seconds, on german TV (Grip) they also measured a 5.9. With the Mustang and Mach-E also nobody is able to actually reach the promised times.. Not a big deal as it's still seriously quick, and you don't buy a hot hatch for drag racing, but still. VW and Hyundai underrate their cars, Ford overrates them.
I did it via Forscan. Day and night difference, love it. Much quieter cabin, you can travel in it. And you clearly hear the REAL engine and exhaust sound. Should be factory setup without the fake sound.
Lovely review. Thankyou Sir. I am the proud owner of the mk4 pre-facelift, but with the Mountune M330 map and I wouldn't change her for anything. Mine's in Orange Fury. ☺ I love the insects the colour attracts.
I´ve just gotten my Ford focus ST mk4.5 . To be honest the mean green metallic was the best choice i´ve made in combination with the track pack which includes black roof+ mirrors. And the collor is amazing but thats just my opinion. Sad that the tested focus st didn´t have the track pack.
@@maciekapocaliptic at least the european MK3.5 models do not have the symposer. On mine it is already deleted from the factory with an oem part. Sound came indeed through the stereo and I could disable it via FORScan.
Regarding the inconsistent performance I guess they did not improve the intercooler which was already way to small in the MK3. From 20°C on I notice that with mine almost every day...
Apparently, the Focus cannot hide its size compared to the lighter Fiesta which is a fantastic car (so it may be a bit more sharp) and Focus RS haD even more power and hardcore setup. And I say HAD, because the last Focus RS was a Focus MK3,5 model. Sadly, no Focus RS with generation 4 and 4,5, only ST.
Very much enjoyed this video. This has just made me more determined to buy one, when the right one comes along. I like everything about it, seats, steering, gearbox and performance. Not bothered about colour, it can be pink with brown spots, don't care. Thanks.
Hello Martin, thank you very much for the great test with the Ford Focus ST X facelift in Mean Grean Metallic, even if you don't like the color quite as much. I would like to ask you if you used third gear when accelerating from 0 - 100, or did you only use it with first and second gear? Maybe the Focus will then manage the 5.7 seconds. Many greetings Frank
I think the engine is the same as in the Pre-Facelift, so I think it have the same problem. On hot days it will have a noticeable lower power. because of the engine-heat it will increase the power. sport auto magazine had this problem in the Supertest in 3/2021. Hope the brakes are better now
Im thinking about getting a 2013 possible 2015 ST but those interiors are quite bad, The 2022 ST interior actually doesn't look too bad, it makes me want to get one.
I had a 2015 ST Wagon in slate grey for 4 years and the interior was good. Everything you Need had a Button to push and Real view for the boost, oil psi etc. The driving was a lot of fun, steering very precise and a very nice boost from the turbo. I miss this car a lot! Perfect Balance between 250 HP, Chassis and interior with a big trunk. Give it a Chance!
the place where you made the walkaround is the place where i often do photos on my cars, its between Issum and Geldern It will be a pleasure to meet you one day. keep it up !!!
Love it Martin. Thank you ❤I watched Max in the Mk4 oh so many times. Then my Orange Fury was delivered and despite the slaesman saying it does not need modding, well I had to: Mountune map 330PS and 515NM on the box. A great car. Go buy one. 🙂
Hi Martin When you driving 5km in a minute ( 250kmh+) the driver ahead on the other lane will see you easily before you "catch " him? ( I confess I'm not used to those speeds) Thanks
Very helpful video for me as I've ordered one. I ordered it in February but I might not take delivery now until Jan 23. So is it worth the 11 month wait?
This just got discontinued in Australia along with the fiesta st, we'll have some come but orders are being reimbursed with a refurd + $500 master card voucher, which is so sad because we love these, less and less to choose from in the hot hatch segment and this price point for car people :(
Martin a me il verde su una Focus piace tantissimo blu e rosso è un colore troppo di "serie" cioè è il colore della Ford e vedere un verde brillante su una Focus è veramente figo
There is some problem with focus ST - having that 280 HP only on paper and in reality it may have 220-260 HP - which many customers state this. This is true for EU market - while in the UK focus ST has indeed 280 HP.
you can't make the time announced by ford because you lift your foot from the accelerator from first to second in launch your foot is always glued to the accelerator
Type-R is gonna be the king handling-wise, but it's basically a hyper hatch so not really a straight competitor. The i30N is as engaging to drive as the Focus, but worse as a daily. The suspension's pretty harsh but it's not backed up by performance, like in the case of the Megane RS Trophy. At that point just get the Megane, really. The GTI a nice daily but that's just about it, it's better to drive than the MK7 but it's still a snoozefest and sounds as crappy as ever. When it comes to track times, Type R > Focus > i30 > Golf.
I'd go for GTI for a good number of reasons Altough manual transmission is more engaging and fun to drive, but in daily driving it's somehow annoying and makes you tired, especially in stop/start traffics. I know Focus has an auto transmission but it's nowhere near the DSG. The other thing is the revised EA888 has two pairs of port injectors in which you don't have to be worried about carbon build-up in long term use. Most of us don't drive these cars on the edge, hence the engine wouldn't get hot enough to avoid carbon building up. Alrough the interior built quality of the GTI has been experienced some shameful cost cuttings compared to its predecessor, but it is much more better and refined than this Ford with all those cheap and recycled plastics. And last but not least, driving the GTI feels more natural and tamed compared to Focus. However, this completely comes down to personal taste. Hope this helps
@@ravenheart369 not only did he not ask about interior quality, but what you're saying is fiction too. You're severely understating the amount of cheap plastics in the Golf, for example the Focus has soft touch materials around the rear windows, while the Golf has Dacia-esque plastics. Actually even Dacia put fabric on those touch points IIRC. In the front, I think everything is rather fair game, frequent touch points have good enough materials but there's cheap plastics lower down in both. And don't let me get started on that ergonomic disaster that is everything inside the infotainment system and around it, like those clunky-ass volume controls which don't even light up at night, or that virtual cockpit design which has items that don't even align properly. Interior quality, yeah right. To note that the virtual cockpit in the Focus is crap as well, the frame rate of that thing is hilarious, so fair game I guess. If it weren't an ergonomic nightmare, maybe the GTI would have a case for itself because it's a better daily.
@@xIcarus227 First of all, fiction or not that was my point of view. From my perspective yours might be fictional as well, who knows?! Therefore, I wouldn't leave any comment about your opinions whether it's fictional or not. So try to be respectful in the first place. And of course I gave my opinion about the performance. I'm assuming you didn't read it throughout the end. Secondly, you probably haven't taken a closer look to those pieces of recycled plastics on the Focus's dash parts and door covers. There is a difference between cheap and cheaper. Maybe the GTI has cheap plastics, but the Focus has the cheaper ones. I clearly mentioned that the new GTI has been experienced shameful cost cuttings all around its interior. Didn't I? But I've found the overall interior quality of the GTI to be slightly better than the Focus. I do agree with you in terms of those blackout center controls but that doesn't necessarily determine the overall interior quality. In terms of virtual cockpit, I haven't seen the thing you mentioned about the GTI, maybe I didn't notice or maybe the one you saw had that problem. Performance wise (the thing you emphasised), I would definitely go for the GTI. I like manual transmissions, but the problem with almost all new cars with manual is the annoying rev hang. In order to do a smooth and soft gear change you have to wait for ages for the RPM to drop down to the desired point and you will lose a lot momentum this way and if you change gear fast (what is known as normal in older cars) you end up jump the car forward, which makes the passengers sick, and of course it will cause more tear and wear on clutch components. So better be gone for the automatic and trust me, Focus's auto transmission is utterly rubbish. In the GTI steering feels more natural and less aggressive whilst in the Focus it's just like a mini gun that tries to rip off every single bend. And please don't forget the superiority of the EA888 compared to that noisy and harsh Ford's 2.3. Finally, me, personally, I am not a fan of any of them, but if I have to choose between Golf and Focus, GTI would be my choice.
I had 1.5 tdci 120ps MK4. Bought an RS Mk3 right now, and when I watch the the video right now i feel really strange. The interior is lovely, but I really hope they have built it more expensive than the preface. The preface has a lot of interior issues - the problematic aerodynamics of the mirrors, the cardboards of the door are just terrific, the dashboard is constantly making sounds. The mk3 for example don't have those problems (maybe because I drive an RS and the build quality is different). On the other hand the new ST looks astonishing interior wise, but I would definitely not replace my RS for one of those, because it is very hard to find a car that feels better than the RS. Maybe the diesel ST is a very good choice. Good power, great fuel economy and quite nice extras.
the ford display is the size of my TV in living room lol
You must be watching through binoculars, then.
@@MC-rt3lx you must be typing through your microwave lcd screen then
@@sassythesasquatch4425 provide I would have one, but not
That display is same size of my monitor computer
@@yooi3796 as long as it does not obscure the eyeshot of driver that's fine, I think
I've lost count how many times I re-watched this video while waiting for mine. Thank you for one of the most in-depth reviews that helped me make up my mind on which hot hatch to get. I think I would have been bored in any of the VWs. This thing grips the road unbelievably well and for stock power in a hot hatch....just wow. Smiling ear to ear every time I get in for a drive. Piece of advice to anyone that is considering the Focus ST, you won't be sorry, just make sure you get it in the 6-spd manual and not the auto. Thanks again!
Why not the automatic ?
Beacuse drivers dont drive automatic and man said that 10 speed auto for ford is trash@@Ierdna1190
@@Ierdna1190 So I considered the automatic given my previous SUV was an auto and it's just comfortable to drive without worrying about shifts. Having said that, the manual gearbox on this ST is so damn smooth and you feel a lot more connected with the car when driving it in a spiritied manner, especially on some nice winding roads. The hot hatches that I've owned over the years have always been manual so I know how they compare to an auto and my personal opinion, you get more of a thrill with the manual. I also did some reading and found that the automatic gearbox isn't the greatest in this car either. Another one is that you get the pops and bangs with the manual whereas the auto doesn't (I stand to be corrected). Overall, it's been almost a year now that I've had the ST and I'm still like a kid on Christmas when I know I'm getting in to go for a drive. Hope this helps :)
getting my 2020 ST manual drive coming week, cant wait haha
@@maluwo8 nice one! Many safe miles and enjoy her!
As a European now living in the US, I really hate the fact Focus ST is no longer available here in the US. I like the way it looks, it's a great evolution to the size and this seems like a perfect hot hatch option with good practicality.
I've gone from a 252hp Accord 2.0t with 6spd to a 480hp Bullitt, but I still would love to have this as an additional tossable car.
I agree! But they need to address the existing transmission issue w/ TCM & recalls.. National back order with no ETA on replacement parts..
@@wubascuba I'm on the same boat with my '13 Ford Focus dual clutch transmission that has a TCM crap out at 88k miles. No idea how I'll get another one. Is this issue as prevalent for people who drive a MANUAL focus though?
@@rickybobby6301 The trans issues for the Fiesta/Focus was automatic trans only
as an american with a mk7 fiesta st it makes me sad seeing these reviews bc I would love to have my car with a little more of a modern touch\
@@bornofstardust5910 facts and now they replace it with a manual
This is the most honest carreview ever made. He destroys some features and loves other ones immensly. No other tester and especially no salesman would ever do that. I like this way more than these stupid sales pitches.
Could be more honest. When I see like infotaintment system "work like a charm" I start to doubt that.
I got mine since 2 weeks and i love it. In real live looks the color so amazing. And the seats are unbelivable. The handling and steering are also a dream. Very good job ford👍🏻
Super jealous. Hopefully get a build date soon
Best color for this car hands down!
I want one so bad, how much does it cost ?
@@YRanDx Cam't get one here in the UK 😥
@@diamus1004 about to get mine. Im in the UK. Ordered it last november
I got one 2 years ago by accident from Hertz Car Rental in Germany. I had it for 6 months because I did not like to give it back, so I extended the rent over and over again. I even took it to the Nordschleife for some track action. I was truly truly surprised by that car! I had so much fun in it! I took it to Hungary, Austria and Croatia for vacation. I moved to the US by the end of 2020 and a friend of mine drove it another two weeks until the rent was over. Great car, much more fun than any Golf or whatever.
I wish we had this generation in the States. That things freaking sweet
Yeah makes me so😡! I had a 2012 Focus SE hatchback. Loved that car and would've bought a next gen in a heartbeat. First Ford announced that they would only sell the 2019 Mk4 Focus as the Active version in the U.S., then a few months later...... Ford nixed that and stated the Focus would be discontinued altogether in the U.S.
Big mistake I made was that when I went to trade in my Focus in 2018, the dealer had a brand new holdover 2017 Focus ST (base) in Race red with the black 5 spoke wheels. At the time my reasoning for not getting it was that I had recently bought a house and figured I would need more cargo space to haul stuff. Plus it had summer tires and I live in a snow state so I would have had to buy at least some all seasons. I regret it. I should have bought it. I could have rented a pickup if i really needed to haul big stuff. Ah well hindsight is 2020.
Seems like all vehicles in EU are way better quality than US, regardless of brand
I Love how this man enjoys and appreciate the hard work that has been done to that car and the legacy the current Focus continues.
I bought the pre-facelift earlier this year. I LOVE THIS CAR!
I’ve recently brought the preface-lift a few weeks as my first hot hatch/performance car and I absolutely love it, everything about it is just amazing, and driving it everyday really does put a smile on my face - can’t wait to do some mods soon 👌🏽
YES! Thank you for putting the model year in the title! Damn I wish Ford would bring these back to North America.
You and me both, fella. Ford is basically truck, electric, or Mustang. And that's me saying it as an F150 and Bullitt owner, but they can do so much more than just this.
"I could honestly trade in my m3 for this"
That's all I needed to hear thank you 👍
Coming from someone who used to own the mk3 ST and switched to Audi instead of getting the mk4 pre-fl, sometimes i do wonder why they don't try to challenge the german manufacturers with a more expensive model because clearly, they know how to build a really good car with great balance between comfort and performance. But the plastic interior and some other aspects where they save money are kind of a turn off even if it looks better than before.
I had a 2013 Focus ST ... loved it, and it loved me. 44,400 miles in 7 years ... had to replace ONLY the Battery, and that took 6.5 years to need that ... I will go to Germany and bring this car back to the USA ... Just need a MPH face for the Speedo ... LOVE THIS CAR ... Manual of course !
In Australia, this car is rated the best hot hatch, better than VW Golf GTI and Hyundai I30N. It's a pity its not for sale any more 😕
Loved this review you should implement the backroads like in this videos more often!
What a beautiful summer day! But Green is my fav colour and looks sick on the STp
Well done review with all relevant topics covered IMO. Wish we could get this in the US! I have 2014 ST that I love, but it wont last forever. And your traffic really sucked this time - like trying to drive near a city in the US with all the clueless idiots jumping into the left lane going really slow.
Same here have a 2014 Race Red in the US it’s a shame we can’t get the new one here c’mon FORD why you keeping this from us??
@@8eight881 ive got a 2013 tux black st with 151k miles and im about to sell as I need a truck. Sad but gotta do what i gotta do. I'd love a mk4 though. they look amazing
The states need this 😢
i really like that they show the gear number in the middle of the rev counter. Even though i never forgeet what gear im in its still a nice addition.
Interesting comment rarely seen so I have to reply as a Mk4 ST owner. You are right, Although I never ever look into the dash relying upon what I see int he HUD, would be nice to see what gear is selected even though up and downshift indicators with the gear are shown in both the HUD and dash on my pre-facelight.
This is a dream car for a really passionate driver.
Never knew the newer ST got the 2.3. Surprised to see any car in the EU gain displacement over time these days.
It's just too bad we do not have those beasts here in the US. Great video!
Thanks for your intro. Now I'm an owner of a Focus ST MK4.5 with mean green color! 💪🏻
Such a beautiful car 😍
The Dream daily for me personally, I drive 2011 1.8 TDCI and the balance of the car is amazing, I enjoy cornering with it, always with a massive confidence. I can only imagine dumping this ST in the corners will be orgasmic !!! :)
15:21 those numbers car companys put online are from drag strip with "preped" surfaces aka they spray sticky stuff down to give the tires better traction
i own one of those, i absolutely love it
I've bought one too! Can't wait to pick it up
Lucky XD
Picking up ST Edition on Tuesday, can't wait
very impressed, ford seems to be finally catching up to the competition when it comes to the overall finish
Too bad this is the last generation of Focus. A historic car comes to an end. Fiesta is rumored to follow. They had exceptional ride quality, but in Ford they have lost their minds the last 3-4 years.
It has a double wishbone front suspension, it's a high end solution and unique in the category.
What does this car have to offer more in regards to i30N?
Would be great to review the new Focus ST with Track Pack and see what's the difference with the changed suspension, brakes, and tires.
I did 5,7 seconds with a passenger. You have to be perfect on the gas so your tires wont slip and change gears really fast. You also can stay on the gas while shifting but idk if it is good or bad für the Engine
from first to second in launch your foot is always glued to the accelerator
Great review guys!
One question: this or the facelift I30n?
Personally I'd go for the i30 N because it seems to be better to drive, it's faster and the slightly smaller engine means you'd pay less tax where I'm from (anything above 2 liters is taxed like hell). That being said I do like the Ford's looks and it might be better as a daily driver. Alternatively just go for whatever's cheapest.
@@LIONtib Asta cu motoru de 2.3 ai dreptate. Tot timpul uit acest aspect. 😅 Plus garantia de la Hyundai...
Problema in Ro e ca la I30N aduc doar varianta DCT desi la cat de bine primita a fost cutia posibil sa ma "convertesc" la automata. E singurul motiv pentru care inca nu am comandat I30n-ul...
I don't think the plus 150 euro yearly tax is a problem for those who will buy this car ... 😉
The i30N is slightly quicker, the Focus has more tech (matrix LED and adaptive cruise control, even with the manuals) and a slightly nicer interior. I'd test drive and negotiate prices for both. I ended up buying the ST as I got a fully equiped limited "Edition" model for about 37.000€, and the fully equipped manual i30N I test drove would've cost about the same with less tech.
@@JazzysTrove La o masina de genul nu stiu daca are sens sa iei automata, dar din cate stiu cea de pe i30 N e printre cele bune. Plus ca Ford nici nu stiu daca mai primeste comenzi pentru Focus. E ciudat, abia au scos facelift-ul si acum vor sa inchida productia de Fiesta si Focus, inclusiv ST.
As pre face-lift owner,I really don't like they change of front bumper and ditched A/C button
American Ford hot hatch fans are steaming mad about the situation of neglect.
Stupid question, maybe not. Can one of these be purchased in Europe and shipped back to the states?
By the way, the fake sound can easily be deactivated with an OBD2 adapter and a program called Forscan. Tankes 2 minutes, super simple and the car sounds much better without it. 😁
Best 0-100 I measured in mine was 5.9 seconds, on german TV (Grip) they also measured a 5.9. With the Mustang and Mach-E also nobody is able to actually reach the promised times.. Not a big deal as it's still seriously quick, and you don't buy a hot hatch for drag racing, but still. VW and Hyundai underrate their cars, Ford overrates them.
I did it via Forscan. Day and night difference, love it. Much quieter cabin, you can travel in it. And you clearly hear the REAL engine and exhaust sound. Should be factory setup without the fake sound.
Have a 2015 tuned and as much as i love it , I am still bummed that they ended the ST line here in the US…😢
Will this be sold in the US?
I have a mk8 gti but tempted by the focus st as I had a st line focus and was brilliant
Lovely review. Thankyou Sir. I am the proud owner of the mk4 pre-facelift, but with the Mountune M330 map and I wouldn't change her for anything. Mine's in Orange Fury. ☺ I love the insects the colour attracts.
Question: why do you say "the fake sound changes" around 09:00 ? Why "fake"?
Not possible to order or to deliver here in Germany
how does it compare to an M140i? Would you choose the ST over it?
I want this in the US so bad. I would trade a mustang for this in a heartbeat.
It's literally a FWD Ecoboost Mustang with more seats.
I´ve just gotten my Ford focus ST mk4.5 . To be honest the mean green metallic was the best choice i´ve made in combination with the track pack which includes black roof+ mirrors. And the collor is amazing but thats just my opinion. Sad that the tested focus st didn´t have the track pack.
09:45 dude, that's not a one-way street
I have an ford focus st and it's really quick
In the EU the MK3 models already had the fake sound through the stereo, too. I disabled it on mine via FORScan. Much better on long trips.
It is not a stereo sound. Sound comes from device connected to intake and further to firewall.
@@maciekapocaliptic at least the european MK3.5 models do not have the symposer. On mine it is already deleted from the factory with an oem part. Sound came indeed through the stereo and I could disable it via FORScan.
@@nitrovent Ok, maybe I`m wrong with lifted MK3. I have got 2014 ST, so it is first small lift of that model.
Ford should have kept the ST models in the US. Really missing out on these cars here.
As the RS !!
I love my MK3.5. Always a pleasure to drive. Shame about humans losing interest in fun cars as we have enough SUV’s in every brands lineup.
*Nice color* 💚
Oh my god it's *gorgeous.* To this day I'm still kicking Ford for stopping US production back in 2016.
Regarding the inconsistent performance I guess they did not improve the intercooler which was already way to small in the MK3.
From 20°C on I notice that with mine almost every day...
It is fine in my Mountune mapped 330ps 515nm mk4.
What about stability in sharp corners? Fiesta and Focus RS handle it way better then Focus ST
Apparently, the Focus cannot hide its size compared to the lighter Fiesta which is a fantastic car (so it may be a bit more sharp) and Focus RS haD even more power and hardcore setup. And I say HAD, because the last Focus RS was a Focus MK3,5 model. Sadly, no Focus RS with generation 4 and 4,5, only ST.
Unplug the Fake Engine Noise Generator, and you lose the annoying sound. Had to do that in my RS and it made a big difference
Waiting the wagon/estate ST in January. Anybody else with this version, anything to be aware of ?
Very much enjoyed this video.
This has just made me more determined to buy one, when the right one comes along.
I like everything about it, seats, steering, gearbox and performance. Not bothered about colour, it can be pink with brown spots, don't care. Thanks.
Hope you fulfil your wish. Great car. I run a M330 mk4 Orange Fury.
Hello Martin, thank you very much for the great test with the Ford Focus ST X facelift in Mean Grean Metallic, even if you don't like the color quite as much. I would like to ask you if you used third gear when accelerating from 0 - 100, or did you only use it with first and second gear? Maybe the Focus will then manage the 5.7 seconds. Many greetings Frank
One thing that will never make sense to me is when an American car company makes a car that’s not available for Americans
I think the engine is the same as in the Pre-Facelift, so I think it have the same problem. On hot days it will have a noticeable lower power. because of the engine-heat it will increase the power. sport auto magazine had this problem in the Supertest in 3/2021. Hope the brakes are better now
THESE NEED TO BE SOLD IN THE US.
DID THEY FIX THE TRANSMISSION ISSUES?
I agree! But they need to address the existing transmission issue w/ TCM & recalls.. National back order with no ETA on replacement parts..
I love that sound on the sport mode... Sounds like its v8 brother mustang..this car should always be driven in sport mode..
Im thinking about getting a 2013 possible 2015 ST but those interiors are quite bad, The 2022 ST interior actually doesn't look too bad, it makes me want to get one.
I had a 2015 ST Wagon in slate grey for 4 years and the interior was good. Everything you Need had a Button to push and Real view for the boost, oil psi etc. The driving was a lot of fun, steering very precise and a very nice boost from the turbo. I miss this car a lot! Perfect Balance between 250 HP, Chassis and interior with a big trunk. Give it a Chance!
the place where you made the walkaround is the place where i often do photos on my cars, its between Issum and Geldern
It will be a pleasure to meet you one day.
keep it up !!!
idk what he's talking about I really love the color and design
They never has to change the 5 cylinder for this 4 ... but it has still a nice sound i notice.
Is there a way to change the color of that media screen to black? In white it burns my eyes even just watching the video
Love it Martin. Thank you ❤I watched Max in the Mk4 oh so many times. Then my Orange Fury was delivered and despite the slaesman saying it does not need modding, well I had to: Mountune map 330PS and 515NM on the box. A great car. Go buy one. 🙂
Oh cool. What contry is this car and video in? I thought it was in U.K. It can't be because the steering wheel is on the left had side.
Great vid. How did you turn off the door chime? Magic?
Wait is that same engine as Ecoboost mustangs ?
Great review, thanks a lot!
Can you, please, tell what watch do you wear...I like that blue color :) Thanks
Ignitioncollection.com ✌️
Hi Martin
When you driving 5km in a minute ( 250kmh+) the driver ahead on the other lane will see you easily before you "catch " him?
( I confess I'm not used to those speeds)
Thanks
If you’re not vigilant all the time (and it is probable if you go ~100 in the right lane) it is possible to miss someone going very fast
Hey Martin l What's your take on the facelift ST Vs the i30n? Auto and manual? Thanks!
Can we switch artificial sound off?
That screen is bigger than my laptop's 😂😂
19:32 Same thing happens to me too when I have to present!! XD
You think the Fiesta ST is the best car in its class, what about the i20n or the Polo GTI?
Where i live i can't even put an order in on one due to "disturbance in the supply chain" :(
I get one next week, im so excited ♡
Very helpful video for me as I've ordered one. I ordered it in February but I might not take delivery now until Jan 23. So is it worth the 11 month wait?
So fortunate you are. Can't get one in my country, disappointed 😞
19:30 the brakes are very good!
Thoughts on the panoramic sunroof for this car? Yay or Nay?
i would really like that you can somehow hide that huge screen in the middle of the front panel (this goes for all new cars)
This just got discontinued in Australia along with the fiesta st, we'll have some come but orders are being reimbursed with a refurd + $500 master card voucher, which is so sad because we love these, less and less to choose from in the hot hatch segment and this price point for car people :(
Here in Australia the entire focus lineup and fiesta are no longer after this year unfortunately.
19:34 kinda like drivers in nz 🤣
I’m sad I can’t upgrade my 2016 in Canada to this.
Martin a me il verde su una Focus piace tantissimo blu e rosso è un colore troppo di "serie" cioè è il colore della Ford e vedere un verde brillante su una Focus è veramente figo
Martin, are you sure your name is not Max?
There is some problem with focus ST - having that 280 HP only on paper and in reality it may have 220-260 HP - which many customers state this. This is true for EU market - while in the UK focus ST has indeed 280 HP.
you can't make the time announced by ford because you lift your foot from the accelerator from first to second in launch your foot is always glued to the accelerator
how is it compared to the GTI / i30N / Type R , performance and handling wise?
Type-R is gonna be the king handling-wise, but it's basically a hyper hatch so not really a straight competitor.
The i30N is as engaging to drive as the Focus, but worse as a daily. The suspension's pretty harsh but it's not backed up by performance, like in the case of the Megane RS Trophy. At that point just get the Megane, really.
The GTI a nice daily but that's just about it, it's better to drive than the MK7 but it's still a snoozefest and sounds as crappy as ever.
When it comes to track times, Type R > Focus > i30 > Golf.
I'd go for GTI for a good number of reasons
Altough manual transmission is more engaging and fun to drive, but in daily driving it's somehow annoying and makes you tired, especially in stop/start traffics. I know Focus has an auto transmission but it's nowhere near the DSG.
The other thing is the revised EA888 has two pairs of port injectors in which you don't have to be worried about carbon build-up in long term use. Most of us don't drive these cars on the edge, hence the engine wouldn't get hot enough to avoid carbon building up.
Alrough the interior built quality of the GTI has been experienced some shameful cost cuttings compared to its predecessor, but it is much more better and refined than this Ford with all those cheap and recycled plastics.
And last but not least, driving the GTI feels more natural and tamed compared to Focus.
However, this completely comes down to personal taste.
Hope this helps
@@ravenheart369 not only did he not ask about interior quality, but what you're saying is fiction too.
You're severely understating the amount of cheap plastics in the Golf, for example the Focus has soft touch materials around the rear windows, while the Golf has Dacia-esque plastics. Actually even Dacia put fabric on those touch points IIRC.
In the front, I think everything is rather fair game, frequent touch points have good enough materials but there's cheap plastics lower down in both.
And don't let me get started on that ergonomic disaster that is everything inside the infotainment system and around it, like those clunky-ass volume controls which don't even light up at night, or that virtual cockpit design which has items that don't even align properly. Interior quality, yeah right.
To note that the virtual cockpit in the Focus is crap as well, the frame rate of that thing is hilarious, so fair game I guess.
If it weren't an ergonomic nightmare, maybe the GTI would have a case for itself because it's a better daily.
@@xIcarus227 First of all, fiction or not that was my point of view. From my perspective yours might be fictional as well, who knows?! Therefore, I wouldn't leave any comment about your opinions whether it's fictional or not. So try to be respectful in the first place. And of course I gave my opinion about the performance. I'm assuming you didn't read it throughout the end.
Secondly, you probably haven't taken a closer look to those pieces of recycled plastics on the Focus's dash parts and door covers. There is a difference between cheap and cheaper. Maybe the GTI has cheap plastics, but the Focus has the cheaper ones. I clearly mentioned that the new GTI has been experienced shameful cost cuttings all around its interior. Didn't I? But I've found the overall interior quality of the GTI to be slightly better than the Focus.
I do agree with you in terms of those blackout center controls but that doesn't necessarily determine the overall interior quality.
In terms of virtual cockpit, I haven't seen the thing you mentioned about the GTI, maybe I didn't notice or maybe the one you saw had that problem.
Performance wise (the thing you emphasised), I would definitely go for the GTI.
I like manual transmissions, but the problem with almost all new cars with manual is the annoying rev hang. In order to do a smooth and soft gear change you have to wait for ages for the RPM to drop down to the desired point and you will lose a lot momentum this way and if you change gear fast (what is known as normal in older cars) you end up jump the car forward, which makes the passengers sick, and of course it will cause more tear and wear on clutch components. So better be gone for the automatic and trust me, Focus's auto transmission is utterly rubbish.
In the GTI steering feels more natural and less aggressive whilst in the Focus it's just like a mini gun that tries to rip off every single bend.
And please don't forget the superiority of the EA888 compared to that noisy and harsh Ford's 2.3.
Finally, me, personally, I am not a fan of any of them, but if I have to choose between Golf and Focus, GTI would be my choice.
@@xIcarus227 Cupra R 》 Type R 》and then all others 😉
I had 1.5 tdci 120ps MK4. Bought an RS Mk3 right now, and when I watch the the video right now i feel really strange. The interior is lovely, but I really hope they have built it more expensive than the preface. The preface has a lot of interior issues - the problematic aerodynamics of the mirrors, the cardboards of the door are just terrific, the dashboard is constantly making sounds. The mk3 for example don't have those problems (maybe because I drive an RS and the build quality is different). On the other hand the new ST looks astonishing interior wise, but I would definitely not replace my RS for one of those, because it is very hard to find a car that feels better than the RS.
Maybe the diesel ST is a very good choice. Good power, great fuel economy and quite nice extras.
front wheel drive ?
My dream car - since 2008 - can’t afford one though .i have a 2007 hyundai getz and when I drive I imagine it’s a Ford st
nice test!
did you try the automatic? how is it?