For those complaining about Nathan's launch, this car has a VERY springy clutch and takes a bit of practice to get used to. I've driven a Focus ST on a few occasions and the first time I drove the car, my launches were pretty poor as well. After a bit of practice, I have gotten much better and I'm sure Nathan would, too. The other small issue that may have negatively impacted Nathan's 0-60 time were the longish shifts in this car (front to back, not side to side). Luckily, Steeda has a great short-throw shifter kit that corrects that issue. If anyone is looking for a car that plants a smile on your face every time you drive it, this is the one.
The stock shifter to me felt oddly flimsy (not to mention the long throw and springy clutch you mentioned), and I also thought the gas pedal was too small.
I've been driving mine for a month or so now and I'm STILL getting used to the clutch. The main reason being I have two main uniforms I wear to work and then regular clothes (I normally wear western boots) and everytime I change shoes, it takes me 5 minutes to start shifting perfectly smooth lol. If I wore the same shoes all month it probably would've taken me 2 weeks to get used to after going from a Camaro to this.
I've owned my Focus ST for 1 year now. No problems to speak of. 10,000 miles so far. Good daily driver, but when you get it out on a windy country road late at night, warm up the turbo and tires, throw it into third and it becomes a completely different animal. Haters can say whatever they want, it doesn't matter. This car is a good daily and it makes me smile like a goof every time I drive it hard. The spoiler works as well, you can notice the car is well planted once you get over about 110. I drove both it and the Fiesta ST on the track, and I will say the Fiesta is the better track car. However, if you're not out to build a track car, go with the focus. Its way more comfortable on the road.
Not a single powertrain issue of any kind so far. Only thing ive taken it into the dealer for was a bad trunk release and a glitch with the Ford Sync. Both got sorted in one visit and I took my car home that same day.
Slim Yelow...you’ve owned a fiesta st I take it? I would personally take a FiST over a FoST any day of the week, but that’s personal preference after driving both. Throw in an after market intercooler, a drop in filter, and a Cobb ap, and the FiST will blow the doors off a FoST and still be well under the FoST sticker price. 🧐
If you are considering one of these please read what I have to say about this car being an owner for 6 months. Its fast and fun but there are some major problems from a drivers standpoint. First of all there is no dead pedal, the pedal placement is off for heal and toe, the gear selector is mounted too far to the right and the throws are too long resulting in what feels like pushing the selector backwards instead of pulling it, the ride height in the seats are way too high off the ground even though you sit inside the cockpit as opposed to on top of it. The steering is quick but you have no idea what the wheels are doing when traction breaks. There is also a weird mechanical tugging that goes on when driving spirited or on a crowned road. The noise induction is way too loud and artificial sounding so much so that you will always have to look at the tach because the noise sounds the f ing same throughout the rev range. The brakes fade way too quickly for a car with this much power and speaking of power, the figures that Ford gives are f ing overboost numbers. Once you loose the overboost which lasts somewhere between 15-20 seconds you are left with a car that is still loud but not nearly as fast. The clutch take up and throttle by wire are so inconsistent you will be embarrassed at more than one intersection. Completely unacceptable for a drivers car. A for the rest of the car where do I start? Oh I know, the Ford My Touch piece of shit waste of time and money. That piece of Microsoft shit has had so many problems since new that I almost broke it with my fist out of frustration several times. My new car shouldn't piss me off that much. Ford is so cheap they use a hard shiny plastic between the soft touch stuff on the dash and the windshield and hoped people wouldn't notice I guess. That is until you can see it reflecting off the windshield all the fucking time. Speaking of hard plastics, the front doors have soft touch and rear doors use a different hard plastic. Again hoping its customers wont notice I'm guessing. The trunk absolutely sucks. The floor is raised up much higher than the regular focus to accommodate the larger spare necessary to fit the larger brakes. While it does not sound like that big of a deal, it creates a drop off down to the rear seats when folded. Overall fit and finish is decent but you can really feel the cost cutting when washing it yourself. I wanted the ST3 package to get the HIDS but the hand brake is relocated on this model due to the seat heater switches and it was digging into my knee during regular driving. Also because of the lack off dead pedal I tried to bend my knee and drive with my foot at the base of the seat, no dice, there is a stupid fucking bump forward of the seat mount and as a result there is no comfortable driving position. I know there is more but I think that's enough. The solution is a GTI. Less power but better in every other area. I got rid of the POS Ford and went back to z Germans> No regrets
Yes, Roman was supposed to drive and review the Focus ST but at the last minute Audi dropped off the new 520 HP Audi S8 at the office so Roman made a (ahhhh) executive decision and let Nathan have the ST while he took the S8. Please stay tuned for that review next week.
seriously?? Ford 0-60 5.9 seconds Mazda 0-60 6.5 seconds (since they are so stupid and the limit the boost for 2 first gears) Ford weight 3196(lb) Mazda weight 3,223 (lb) top speed ford 100.3 mph mazda 97.9 mph lap time ford 1:24.499 mazda 1:26.036 Fuel economy guess again ford 23 MPG city / 32 MPG hwy when mazda comes 18 MPG city / 25 MPG hwy they 3 only thing i admit mazda is in 9 more hp 10 more lb-ft of torque and power ratio for 0.4 less
I love the enthusiasm in a car review, nice job Nathan! I disagree on SYNC because that is a must have in my F150, but to each their own. Nice to know that car seats will fit.
The Focus is so fucking predictable, you can control the level of screeching tires in a sharp corner if you know anything about driving. The long wheel base I believe is the secret. The gearing is perfect, did any of you pricks notice the sound of the 3rd gear spinning up?
Keep up the good work!! Your fun personality is what makes these vids so great! I try my best to make my car reviews as fun as yours but I'm way behind you. Only 3200 subs and half the videos. Actually working on S65, Ferrari 360 Modena and a Lamborghini. My big challenge is I also do jets and other stuff so I'm juggling to much. I think need to take a vacation...AND...NOT film it for more content!! LOL SMH
The Fusion feeds my inner adult. The Focus ST, my inner juvenile delinquent. Given my childish demeanor, the Focus ST is my choice. Thanks for watching!
No , its altitude. his times will always be a little slower. also with 90 weather and stock intercooler repeated runs like that will yield poor performance in the ST.
Ah, I'm an idiot. I didn't realize he was a whole mile above sea level (and yeah, 90 degrees will take its toll on a hot turbo). He's still a nincompoop for trying to launch it with traction control on and shifting at 6K in first gear though.
Get someone who really knows how to drive a stick, learm how to power shift, run it at sea level on a 70 degree day amd I think you will take a full second or so off the E.T. this guy shifts like my grandma going to the store.
Recaros are like one of the best features of the car lol! I recently bought a ST3 with the carbon fiber package and all the options really make the car much more upscale and not so economy minded.
Car Authority I completely understand. Bought a 2014 ST3 and I refused to not have the Leather Recaros. Wish I had the carbon and sunroof though. Couldn’t beat $15k and 36k miles🤷🏽♂️
Or, maybe Europeans and other non-Americans need to lighten up and stop being so stuck up. The guy clearly enjoys what he does and is having a good time. Jeremy Clarkson from top gear is way more annoying than this guy and is constantly negative and nit picks every car he gets around. lighten up rest of the world. You might actually enjoy life if you do.
Hey Hudson, you're a funny guy. Man I've seen Chevy (little Bowtie) boys wet their pants before but WOW. Why don't you just sleep in the garage and bang that plastic piece of chit Chevy in the tailpipe every night. By the way, have mom change that diaper, after all that pissing you just did its more than overloaded. The Focus ST is everything Chevy WISHES they could do. Where is your precious Cobalt SS now anyway?? Discontinued. Yea.
I agree with you on the profile, looks, and interior. When I test drove an ST I felt it was powerful for a FWD car and has a ton of torque but I couldn't pull the trigger due to one thing...at the end of the day...IT'S A FOCUS.
Is the suggested retail price of the Focus ST truly $23,700.00 in the USA? If so this car should sell like hot cakes. Here in the UK prices begin at roughly £22,000.00 ($36,700.00) and I think the car is great value at that price. This car will bring a smile to your face.
How can you dis this guy? He said it is the best class of front wheel drive hatches... I have a mazdaspeed3 that says different! O and the ford ST is slower than my Cobb Tuned 13 ford fusion 2.0 eco . 7.1 seconds is a terrible 0-60 on a car that ways under 3000lbs 270 TQ 250? HP! That ST is a yellow bag of shittles....
Please stop revving the engine.... It sounds really bad. Like someone wheezing and gasping. I've heard this at sea level too. Still not good. And yes.... It's a FOCUS. Made for boy racers who don't know better.
@lmorrow4, don't worry. I wasted my energy arguing with this guy too. He seems to be hopelessly blind to things such as style, practicality, and fun. Why? Because they cannot be measured by numbers, and this scares him. Fact of the matter is, the Cobalt is a poorly executed tuners car, and the ST is sublime.
The lower engine mount really lets the ST down when it comes to 1/4 mile times, it has soooo much movement and is a major cause of wheel hop some ST owners are breaking into the 13's just by changing the engine mount I run consistent 14.6 passes in my ST but im trapping 101mph so theres a mid 13 pass if it would get traction
I want to like this car much more, but I'm just having a hard time grasping why Ford has a FWD with that much HP and TQ and not have a real LSD where Mazda does starting at a very similar price. Even the Civic SI with much less power has one. Come on Ford.
Why in the world would they make this tiny car a sedan? I would assume that this car is used by a single person 85% of the time and the average driver age is probably 20. It would also look FAR better with two larger doors.
Maverick Buckley, the old model st had a 5 cyl in the uk. We get the same as this now. However this a European design and it's built in Europe, the badge is American that's it.
i get this car and i chose this colour (sunse yellow) because its AWSOME .. there are to many silver and black cars out there .. time to get something different
You shouldn't bash on the recaros. I have the dark gray ones and they look really good. I understand you don't like these bright ones, but the dark gray ones are nice. and the basic dashboard is really ugly. The sync makes it look nice and luxurious. and it has some great features.
Idk, love the interior and the front of the car, the 1 thing that i can't get past is the rear. The rear on this car is so butt ass ugly, it's the only thing keeping me from buying it. They HAVE to change that fucking rear. The speed3 is a little quicker and looks better. Only problem.
The profile and stance of a Ms3 is waaay more aggressive looking, focus wins in front end styling and interior, if i had to choose between the St and Ms3 think id get the speed3
Nice. I think Ford should make Performance versions of all their vehicles. That's crazy talk I know but SO WHAT! We really need fun, quick cars to enjoy without filing for bankruptcy. I say ST versions of their whole regular vehicle line-up. I hear their will be a Fiesta ST? Why not? It's brilliant!! Why not an Escape ST, Edge ST, Fusion ST. Let's do it!! Dodge has RT & SRT versions of their cars. Why should they have all the fun?!?!
Stock exhaust in these cars is so quiet, I did a resonator delete and it sounds much better. Edit: I'm also about 500 ft above sea level and mine will hit 60 in about 6.
I have one, 2013, super fun car, hauls my family (5), all the options, zero problems with it. I also had a 2003 SVT, no problems cheapest car in terms of maintenance, handled great, however, LAME engine in terms of power. The ST however, totally ROCKS, and will do, 155. I am seriously looking at the RS that is coming out. But it's pretty pricey.
I can't wait to buy this vehicle but the 2017 Ford Focus ST (ST2). I test drove a Mazda3 Grand Touring (Manual), it also doesn't compare to the Ford Focus ST. The Mazda3 Grand Touring has 184HP/185lbsTorque (why even bother). I am now sold on buying the Ford Focus ST and I can't wait now. I also drove a few like the Civic Type R & Subaru WRX Limited, and I also wasn't impressed unlike with the Ford Focus, I was very impressed and felt secure in it. The HUGGING of the Road is just way better than the other hot hatches. I JUST LOVE THE "FORD FOCUS ST". I also want it in Yellow, or Kona Blue, or even Magnetic. Whichever 3 colors, I'll be elated with it and can't wait to drive it over and over, and for years to come.
I feel that you are overlooking all of the facts and now your pinned in a corner and trying to make up stupid useless points to say why the focus is better then all the rest when it clearly is not. As most of your "useless " statistical evidence has fallen through the only thing you have to fall back on is " i just like the car" is all it boils down to. So argue with me some more about how just because you like a car better it means its better then everything else out there.
And you clearly have a bias towards the focus. All in all your points you have made are completely moot. And how exactly do you gauge wtf you just said. How is a cobalt or a mazdaspeed3 any less usable then a focus ST and especially the MS3? Both are hot hatches and both have tons of cargo space and good performance specs. So how exactly is the focus a BETTER daily driver? all 3 get good MPG and granted your ST may have more trunk space but i dont haul shit around everyday either.
Im also above sea level ........boss...... and Turbo cars are not as highly affected by altitude as NA or supercharged since the turbo can spool faster to produce the same amount of boost and your wastegate will regulate the pressure in the manifold. While its true the air is a little less dense the turbo will compensate by spooling harder to pressurize the air in the manifold to the correct pressure so the motor gets the oxygen it needs to stay happy. BUT this does increase heat
Its also funny to mention how the spec numbers for the ST seem to be more broader and have such a wider range as such with this video that the guy couldnt get the car to 60 in less then 7 seconds, yet the specs claim a 5.9 second 0-60 time. All the specs on the cobalt are the same. 5.7 0-60 and the 1/4 mile at 14 flat but ive had mine clock in at 13.7 bone stock. So no the focus is by no means the "Superior" car.
And you wanna know what......that skidpad result of .96 is BS if the damn thing is only running the slalom at 65.8 MPH vs the cobalts 72.4 almost 10mph quicker. So obviously that translates to the car sticking to the ground harder around the corners and even Road and Track said that it was " Mystifying " that with a ".96 G" skidpad how it only ran 65.8 which means excessive body roll and the inability of the car to stick to the ground at higher speeds meaning those numbers are BS.
I think you mean the cobalt gets better acceleration due to no lift shifting not so much launch control. NLS maintains boost pressure going into higher gears......so obviously the cobalt was more race inspired to have high end features like no lift shift and launch control and a transmission with a REAL limited slip differential built right in without the need for aftermarket two step programming.
Ummm i dunno where you got that stat from ive seen everything from .89 to .93 i see nothing of the sort of .96G and launch control has no practical use on the street. The "dopey" wing was an option. It was not standard on the 08-10 SS turbo. The SS on paper gets 30 but ive always gotten 35 on flat highways when not heading into a wind. The ST does not look that great honestly but that of course is only opinion.
BTW ive never bottomed my suspension out on anything......the front bumper maybe yes on some really steep drive ways but thats it. Pot holes suck but then again pot holes suck on any car with low pro tires. And besides that your not SUPPOSED TO DRIVE THROUGH POTHOLES ANYWAY dumbass....Thats exactly how you RUIN your suspension and i dont care what kind of car you have Potholes = Bad. Besides the SS can do everything the ST does and better with the exception of up to date interior.
Ummm I don't know what car YOU are talking about but it certainly isnt the SS. The suspension is NOT that stiff. Sure it isnt the greatest on crappy paved roads and gravel but i can assure you its not as unbearable as you claim otherwise NO one would buy this car Because im also sure that the Nissan GTR doesnt ride some slammed spring cut honda civic either. I think your just in denial that there is a car that can best the ST in every aspect of pure driving pleasure thats in the same category
The SS turbo may be a cobalt by name but in no way shape or form does it ACT like just your average cobalt. There were a lot of bang for your buck cars that are "Rental" cars at heart. The focus is no different as was the dodge neon, civic, or any of the rest. Chevy simply did a better job taking a rental car and making it stand out so far away from its "rental car" heritage that it should have been called something else because a rental car does not beat out 300+ HP cars on the street.
The SS wasn't built for Off roading anyways so if you live in some rural little town with tons of choppy roads and dirt and gravel yeah the cobalt isn't going to be a pillowy soft ride. But the thing was designed and tuned on a track which has proven grip and cornering ability to match that of the Nissan GTR even outhandling cars like the EVO and the STI. and did ford give the focus a HUGE clutch, Limited slip dif, Launch control, no lift shift and not to mention a twin scroll turbo? Nope.
Tacky exterior body style? I'm sorry but the ST does NOT look better on the outside. And your complaining about the shift KNOB? Seriously that's all you could come up with to bash out the SS? Ill give you the cheap looking interior but obviously you dont know that the "Rough" suspension makes for much better track times and better grip on the road. The SS isn't JUST faster in a line...its faster around the track too. Don't forget about that Limited slip Dif that the focus doesn't have.
I don't think anyone can question that its one of the best FWD cars for sale, but the real question is if there is any reason to stick with a FWD if you're paying that much money for something intended to really be performance oriented. With typical options you're looking at a 3300lb car with 250hp that gets 32mpg for $28K. For thousands less for example, Ford has their own Mustang V6 at 3500lb with 305hp that gets 29mpg but is more purpose designed for performance and RWD.
A lot of haters here! I've driven quite a few fast cars in my life. I'm a former STi owner who had only been buying Japanese lately. When I heard about this car coming to the states I had to go take a look and after watching all the reviews (often where the reviewer is smiling and giggling most of the review) and going for a test drive I was in love. Bought it the next week. Insanely fun to drive. I get non stop compliments everywhere I go.
which will cost in a loss of power due more to temperature then actual MAP and O2 roughly about 20HP for the ST and at the elevation IM at i loose 15.3HP and 5HP is negligible. 5hp wont make or break anything ...at that point its all Driver to decide if the same car with 5hp less could beat the same car with 5hp more. so CHEERS!
Was i comparing ANYTHING else besides pure GRIP? No.... i by no means said anything about the cobalt being faster, better built, or style or anything. I was merely pointing out the fact that chevy put enough time and work into the suspension to put it almost on par with a supercar. Because in a slolom the GTR would only win by a hair.
Really? How can you say that? The SS TC you have has way more performance features, better handling, launch control, no lift shift, Limited slip differential (if you got it) and is faster and has a better audio system. Ive driven a ST before and its not nearly as fun to drive. The turbo takes a bit to spool up not like the TC which its there almost instantly.
The cobalt SS turbo is on paper and in Real life......faster then the MS3. The only videos on youtube you will find of MS3 beating a cobalt ss is if its a supercharged or an NA. Any video ive seen with an SS turbo and an MS3 is the MS3 getting beat. watch?v=HLQhrIpn860 ... watch?v=SYcWcP9YfwQ Nuf Said.
Mazda 0-60 is 5.8. Mazdaspeed3 is only 60lb heavier and has more power and torque due to K04 turbo instead of ST that has a smaller K03 turbo. ST can''t keep up with MS3, if you drove both cars as I do you will know that. With only an inteke an a tune like Hypertech or Cobb, MS3 can keep up and walk on a STI or EVO. MS3 was the best hothatch until new STI showed up. Period.
Hey, it's okay to be enthusiastic about a product you like. Now for the important question. What suction cup mount are you using on the Canon camcorder on the passenger window? Lastly, you are not alone in high praise. Motor Trend agrees, Chris Harris (UK) also agrees and a raft of other reviewers also agree.
AHAHAH right i believe that. Nice facts based on opinion buddy go back to your dream and come back to reality when you finally grow up and realize that facts and proof are better then " The focus is better because i say it is" bull crap. SS > ST hands down. Nuf said.
Yes .....yes i am. If you look at skid pad results the cobalt SS turbo is only a fraction less grip then the GTR and i can bet money with better rubber then continental contacts that the cobalt could pull 1G on a corner easily.
To bad the MS3 was still bested out by the Cobalt SS turbo. But then again you are talking about hot hatches not all around bang for buck 4 cyl's. I walk my brothers MS3 all day long and believe me he tries all the time.
Try a more exciting channel Juan. As for forced induction, (turbos and supercharges) they mitigate loss, but they do not stop it altogether. The only powerplant that has no power loss at high altitude is an electric motor.
Yeah it will even if it is turbocharged the air is still less dense which would mean the turbo would have to work harder ....only a few PSI to get the same amount of air as it would at sea level.
without the seats its not such a great car. Also they have to do something about their logo. They have to match it too the car. The blue ford logo looks stupid and doesn't match
7.1 seconds from 0-60? That is terrible! I was expecting better from this car. My Honda Civic Si does it in 6.2 - 6.7 seconds on a bad day, and its stock with no turbo.... Civic Si for the win.
Leaving the revs constant and toeing the clutch out on takeoff will give you the best control and 0-60 in sacrifice of the clutch -unfortunately. PIR and Sears Point drag experience.
who cares its a freaking test car. motortrend thrashes their test cars around the track all day. im sure nathan could afford to buy $20 cover to replace it if it broke.
Very Very Nice Video, I just test drove one today , I know what you mean...just want to go.... . I am completely in Love with it... Now trying to figure out how can I afford monthly payments , I have already brain wash my wife and now she agrees I need this toy as I work 12 hours a day
if u dont like the Focus ST why would you care if he threw the cover on the ground? btw, im sure the cover is "built ford tough" too. so it wouldnt matter.
How would you compare it to an EVO? I'm considering this or a used EVO x. I live in Idaho now, but I'm not planning on living here long. If I was going to stay here in the land of snow and ice, the awd EVO would definitely win. But as a dd, what do you think?
I'm going from a 98 gt mustang to a fusion titanium , it's an upgrade but not the same, gonna miss the 5 speed and the loud roar but with a family had to cut the loss , stop putting money Into it and get something classy , fun to drive with some balls , but the ST is in the same category idk which to choose yet
I like how he takes the plastic cover off and just throws it on the ground like he owns it
oh hey lol
Honestly I did the same exact thing.
Thats the exact moment when i started looking at comments and here we are lol
Whp 400 ?
Off the car is where it belongs.
Did you assholes know that Ford redesigned the fucking side mirrors in a wind tunnel, to reduce cabin noise?
+Slim Yelow yes I did
Love these STs ... beautiful hatchback with good performance at this price-point, plus still very good gas mileage for commute.
+Krasnaludek Fuck the MPG. This is a driver's car!
Slim Yelow but still with full Bolt-Ons and stage 1 tune I get 21mpg
Mazdaspeed3 has great performance but is a butt-ugly car. I would get this Focus ST over it any day.
This has to be the lamest car review i've ever seen...
Buying a 2013 focus tomorrow Lol, just wanted to check out, nice vid, nice car
i want one lol like 10 years later
For those complaining about Nathan's launch, this car has a VERY springy clutch and takes a bit of practice to get used to. I've driven a Focus ST on a few occasions and the first time I drove the car, my launches were pretty poor as well. After a bit of practice, I have gotten much better and I'm sure Nathan would, too.
The other small issue that may have negatively impacted Nathan's 0-60 time were the longish shifts in this car (front to back, not side to side). Luckily, Steeda has a great short-throw shifter kit that corrects that issue.
If anyone is looking for a car that plants a smile on your face every time you drive it, this is the one.
The stock shifter to me felt oddly flimsy (not to mention the long throw and springy clutch you mentioned), and I also thought the gas pedal was too small.
I've been driving mine for a month or so now and I'm STILL getting used to the clutch. The main reason being I have two main uniforms I wear to work and then regular clothes (I normally wear western boots) and everytime I change shoes, it takes me 5 minutes to start shifting perfectly smooth lol. If I wore the same shoes all month it probably would've taken me 2 weeks to get used to after going from a Camaro to this.
I've owned my Focus ST for 1 year now. No problems to speak of. 10,000 miles so far. Good daily driver, but when you get it out on a windy country road late at night, warm up the turbo and tires, throw it into third and it becomes a completely different animal. Haters can say whatever they want, it doesn't matter. This car is a good daily and it makes me smile like a goof every time I drive it hard. The spoiler works as well, you can notice the car is well planted once you get over about 110.
I drove both it and the Fiesta ST on the track, and I will say the Fiesta is the better track car. However, if you're not out to build a track car, go with the focus. Its way more comfortable on the road.
+Patrick Youells That's what I said long ago, the 3rd gear is biatchin' ! - zzzzwheeeeeeiiiii.....
+Patrick Youells Fuck the Fiesta. - piece of shit
Not a single powertrain issue of any kind so far. Only thing ive taken it into the dealer for was a bad trunk release and a glitch with the Ford Sync. Both got sorted in one visit and I took my car home that same day.
Patrick Youells
I hate the Ford Synch.
Slim Yelow...you’ve owned a fiesta st I take it? I would personally take a FiST over a FoST any day of the week, but that’s personal preference after driving both. Throw in an after market intercooler, a drop in filter, and a Cobb ap, and the FiST will blow the doors off a FoST and still be well under the FoST sticker price. 🧐
If you are considering one of these please read what I have to say about this car being an owner for 6 months. Its fast and fun but there are some major problems from a drivers standpoint. First of all there is no dead pedal, the pedal placement is off for heal and toe, the gear selector is mounted too far to the right and the throws are too long resulting in what feels like pushing the selector backwards instead of pulling it, the ride height in the seats are way too high off the ground even though you sit inside the cockpit as opposed to on top of it. The steering is quick but you have no idea what the wheels are doing when traction breaks. There is also a weird mechanical tugging that goes on when driving spirited or on a crowned road. The noise induction is way too loud and artificial sounding so much so that you will always have to look at the tach because the noise sounds the f ing same throughout the rev range. The brakes fade way too quickly for a car with this much power and speaking of power, the figures that Ford gives are f ing overboost numbers. Once you loose the overboost which lasts somewhere between 15-20 seconds you are left with a car that is still loud but not nearly as fast. The clutch take up and throttle by wire are so inconsistent you will be embarrassed at more than one intersection. Completely unacceptable for a drivers car.
A for the rest of the car where do I start? Oh I know, the Ford My Touch piece of shit waste of time and money. That piece of Microsoft shit has had so many problems since new that I almost broke it with my fist out of frustration several times. My new car shouldn't piss me off that much. Ford is so cheap they use a hard shiny plastic between the soft touch stuff on the dash and the windshield and hoped people wouldn't notice I guess. That is until you can see it reflecting off the windshield all the fucking time. Speaking of hard plastics, the front doors have soft touch and rear doors use a different hard plastic. Again hoping its customers wont notice I'm guessing. The trunk absolutely sucks. The floor is raised up much higher than the regular focus to accommodate the larger spare necessary to fit the larger brakes. While it does not sound like that big of a deal, it creates a drop off down to the rear seats when folded. Overall fit and finish is decent but you can really feel the cost cutting when washing it yourself. I wanted the ST3 package to get the HIDS but the hand brake is relocated on this model due to the seat heater switches and it was digging into my knee during regular driving. Also because of the lack off dead pedal I tried to bend my knee and drive with my foot at the base of the seat, no dice, there is a stupid fucking bump forward of the seat mount and as a result there is no comfortable driving position. I know there is more but I think that's enough.
The solution is a GTI. Less power but better in every other area. I got rid of the POS Ford and went back to z Germans> No regrets
This helps just got one today
Yes, Roman was supposed to drive and review the Focus ST but at the last minute Audi dropped off the new 520 HP Audi S8 at the office so Roman made a (ahhhh) executive decision and let Nathan have the ST while he took the S8. Please stay tuned for that review next week.
seriously??
Ford 0-60 5.9 seconds
Mazda 0-60 6.5 seconds (since they are so stupid and the limit the boost for 2 first gears)
Ford
weight 3196(lb)
Mazda
weight 3,223 (lb)
top speed
ford
100.3 mph
mazda
97.9 mph
lap time
ford
1:24.499
mazda
1:26.036
Fuel economy
guess again ford 23 MPG city / 32 MPG hwy
when mazda comes 18 MPG city / 25 MPG hwy
they 3 only thing i admit mazda is in 9 more hp 10 more lb-ft of torque and power ratio for 0.4 less
I love the enthusiasm in a car review, nice job Nathan! I disagree on SYNC because that is a must have in my F150, but to each their own. Nice to know that car seats will fit.
Fuck that, I OWN an ST3 (full trim) and it's fast as Shit! Second pair of tires, factory upgrades like the lower engine mount and other Ford updates.
Yep, don't waste time on Recardo seats or Sync. Get the base model.
They HURT if you are over 160.
thanks mate. good to know. Anybody got an RS yet? Jay Leno has one. (Michelin commercial)
I had a 2012 Ford Focus Titanium Hatch with the performance package. I couldn't believe how well it handled. I'm sure the ST is even more impressive.
Had?
wesworld98 Yes, had. It was a lemon in terms of electronics. Couldn't keep it out of the shop and ultimately got rid of it.
TonyTube407 Wow that sucks, im looking at getting a Tangerine scream ST and if i do I'll reply and tell you how amazing it is! haha
TonyTube407 u all assumed usa muscle Cars the best . U know shit about fast Cars. The shity Cars u use there are fast like turtles.in desert .
@@wesworld98 ya get it?
The Focus is so fucking predictable, you can control the level of screeching tires in a sharp corner if you know anything about driving. The long wheel base I believe is the secret.
The gearing is perfect, did any of you pricks notice the sound of the 3rd gear spinning up?
You have got to love the Godzilla shirt. I just bought a 2016 ST1 for my daily driver and it is awesome!
Keep up the good work!! Your fun personality is what makes these vids so great! I try my best to make my car reviews as fun as yours but I'm way behind you. Only 3200 subs and half the videos. Actually working on S65, Ferrari 360 Modena and a Lamborghini. My big challenge is I also do jets and other stuff so I'm juggling to much. I think need to take a vacation...AND...NOT film it for more content!! LOL SMH
The Fusion feeds my inner adult. The Focus ST, my inner juvenile delinquent. Given my childish demeanor, the Focus ST is my choice. Thanks for watching!
Your constant reving says it all...my man.
I was waiting for this. Love mine!
I hit 60 faster in my Fiesta ST. Did this guy learn how to drive a stick watching youtube videos? Terrible. #disliked
No , its altitude. his times will always be a little slower. also with 90 weather and stock intercooler repeated runs like that will yield poor performance in the ST.
Ah, I'm an idiot. I didn't realize he was a whole mile above sea level (and yeah, 90 degrees will take its toll on a hot turbo). He's still a nincompoop for trying to launch it with traction control on and shifting at 6K in first gear though.
He also is a heavy dude , which he did mention.
Not to mention he has probably heatsoaked by that point. As much as I love the FoST (and the FiST) it's stock intercooler blows.
Yes he is. We think that Nathan prefers Cherry Coke but he could have been on Diet Coke for this video.
Get someone who really knows how to drive a stick, learm how to power shift, run it at sea level on a 70 degree day amd I think you will take a full second or so off the E.T. this guy shifts like my grandma going to the store.
I noticed that also.
Charles Pehl MotorTrend reviewers figured it at 5.9 sec to 60mph. Amazing how much difference altitude and temperature can make.
Recaros are like one of the best features of the car lol! I recently bought a ST3 with the carbon fiber package and all the options really make the car much more upscale and not so economy minded.
Car Authority I completely understand. Bought a 2014 ST3 and I refused to not have the Leather Recaros. Wish I had the carbon and sunroof though. Couldn’t beat $15k and 36k miles🤷🏽♂️
Stage 1 or 2 bring the car to a different tier.
Or, maybe Europeans and other non-Americans need to lighten up and stop being so stuck up. The guy clearly enjoys what he does and is having a good time. Jeremy Clarkson from top gear is way more annoying than this guy and is constantly negative and nit picks every car he gets around. lighten up rest of the world. You might actually enjoy life if you do.
To answer your question....The same amount that VW or Subaru paid you to make this comment.
FYI: Ford paid us as much as Volkswagen paid you to make this comment.
I think he might like the car a little
Can’t imagine what he’d do if he knew about the track mode. Seemed to only use the sport mode. Forget traction of a dig in track mode LOL
Dude is really annoying
Hey Hudson, you're a funny guy. Man I've seen Chevy (little Bowtie) boys wet their pants before but WOW. Why don't you just sleep in the garage and bang that plastic piece of chit Chevy in the tailpipe every night. By the way, have mom change that diaper, after all that pissing you just did its more than overloaded. The Focus ST is everything Chevy WISHES they could do. Where is your precious Cobalt SS now anyway?? Discontinued. Yea.
Tell him that the best competition to the ST from Chev is a SONIC RS.
Guyfihi, it depends on how you drive it. I guarantee your Civic doesn't and never has performed like this car.
i would be scared to be in a car with this man
I agree with you on the profile, looks, and interior. When I test drove an ST I felt it was powerful for a FWD car and has a ton of torque but I couldn't pull the trigger due to one thing...at the end of the day...IT'S A FOCUS.
And?
Great review, as always. If only they offered it in AWD, I'd buy one in a heartbeat! PLEASE, Ford! PLEEEEEEASE!
Is the suggested retail price of the Focus ST truly $23,700.00 in the USA? If so this car should sell like hot cakes. Here in the UK prices begin at roughly £22,000.00 ($36,700.00) and I think the car is great value at that price. This car will bring a smile to your face.
How can you dis this guy? He said it is the best class of front wheel drive hatches... I have a mazdaspeed3 that says different! O and the ford ST is slower than my Cobb Tuned 13 ford fusion 2.0 eco . 7.1 seconds is a terrible 0-60 on a car that ways under 3000lbs 270 TQ 250? HP! That ST is a yellow bag of shittles....
Please stop revving the engine.... It sounds really bad. Like someone wheezing and gasping. I've heard this at sea level too. Still not good. And yes.... It's a FOCUS. Made for boy racers who don't know better.
bad comment
@lmorrow4, don't worry. I wasted my energy arguing with this guy too. He seems to be hopelessly blind to things such as style, practicality, and fun. Why? Because they cannot be measured by numbers, and this scares him. Fact of the matter is, the Cobalt is a poorly executed tuners car, and the ST is sublime.
The lower engine mount really lets the ST down when it comes to 1/4 mile times, it has soooo much movement and is a major cause of wheel hop
some ST owners are breaking into the 13's just by changing the engine mount
I run consistent 14.6 passes in my ST but im trapping 101mph so theres a mid 13 pass if it would get traction
I want to like this car much more, but I'm just having a hard time grasping why Ford has a FWD with that much HP and TQ and not have a real LSD where Mazda does starting at a very similar price. Even the Civic SI with much less power has one. Come on Ford.
Why in the world would they make this tiny car a sedan? I would assume that this car is used by a single person 85% of the time and the average driver age is probably 20. It would also look FAR better with two larger doors.
Got the car and love it desent tyres are the key lower engine mount too its a different animal after that and a tune
Maverick Buckley, the old model st had a 5 cyl in the uk. We get the same as this now. However this a European design and it's built in Europe, the badge is American that's it.
Looks slow. And no 4 cylinder has ever been music to my ears. V8's are the only way I roll.
i get this car and i chose this colour (sunse yellow) because its AWSOME .. there are to many silver and black cars out there .. time to get something different
I was thinking of purchasing this car but, does it have road and wind noise cruising 60-75mph?
no way even at 140 alls you hear is the engine
You shouldn't bash on the recaros. I have the dark gray ones and they look really good. I understand you don't like these bright ones, but the dark gray ones are nice. and the basic dashboard is really ugly. The sync makes it look nice and luxurious. and it has some great features.
Turn the tcs off for 0-60mph run sounds like it is cutting in way too hard...4.5k rpm for a launch in one of those things is too much
I don't get it... Why even bother running performance tests at high altitude? Regardless though, you're not the best driver to begin with.
Idk, love the interior and the front of the car, the 1 thing that i can't get past is the rear. The rear on this car is so butt ass ugly, it's the only thing keeping me from buying it. They HAVE to change that fucking rear. The speed3 is a little quicker and looks better. Only problem.
Your opinions were conceived in sin
The profile and stance of a Ms3 is waaay more aggressive looking, focus wins in front end styling and interior, if i had to choose between the St and Ms3 think id get the speed3
Great review approach. Thanks for the non-PR... I'm getting one!!!
Nice. I think Ford should make Performance versions of all their vehicles. That's crazy talk I know but SO WHAT! We really need fun, quick cars to enjoy without filing for bankruptcy. I say ST versions of their whole regular vehicle line-up. I hear their will be a Fiesta ST? Why not? It's brilliant!! Why not an Escape ST, Edge ST, Fusion ST. Let's do it!! Dodge has RT & SRT versions of their cars. Why should they have all the fun?!?!
Stock exhaust in these cars is so quiet, I did a resonator delete and it sounds much better.
Edit: I'm also about 500 ft above sea level and mine will hit 60 in about 6.
I own this car and it's actually a little bit dangerous.
+Karmiangod How so? Is it the torque steer?
+Dickbutt I have a 2014, and it's amazing how easily you can get the car to oversteer and rotate, despite it being FWD.
+Dickbutt The TS is way less than the Golf or Mazda 3.
Yes I am a bit of a baby. I am scared to take this car around corners. Kinda defeats the purpose of having the car ROFL.
my mazda 3 2.3 is slow as hell. not worth trying to boost the non speed model. might get this next.
I have one, 2013, super fun car, hauls my family (5), all the options, zero problems with it. I also had a 2003 SVT, no problems cheapest car in terms of maintenance, handled great, however, LAME engine in terms of power. The ST however, totally ROCKS, and will do, 155. I am seriously looking at the RS that is coming out. But it's pretty pricey.
I can't wait to buy this vehicle but the 2017 Ford Focus ST (ST2). I test drove a Mazda3 Grand Touring (Manual), it also doesn't compare to the Ford Focus ST. The Mazda3 Grand Touring has 184HP/185lbsTorque (why even bother). I am now sold on buying the Ford Focus ST and I can't wait now. I also drove a few like the Civic Type R & Subaru WRX Limited, and I also wasn't impressed unlike with the Ford Focus, I was very impressed and felt secure in it. The HUGGING of the Road is just way better than the other hot hatches. I JUST LOVE THE "FORD FOCUS ST". I also want it in Yellow, or Kona Blue, or even Magnetic. Whichever 3 colors, I'll be elated with it and can't wait to drive it over and over, and for years to come.
I feel that you are overlooking all of the facts and now your pinned in a corner and trying to make up stupid useless points to say why the focus is better then all the rest when it clearly is not. As most of your "useless " statistical evidence has fallen through the only thing you have to fall back on is " i just like the car" is all it boils down to. So argue with me some more about how just because you like a car better it means its better then everything else out there.
And you clearly have a bias towards the focus. All in all your points you have made are completely moot. And how exactly do you gauge wtf you just said. How is a cobalt or a mazdaspeed3 any less usable then a focus ST and especially the MS3? Both are hot hatches and both have tons of cargo space and good performance specs. So how exactly is the focus a BETTER daily driver? all 3 get good MPG and granted your ST may have more trunk space but i dont haul shit around everyday either.
Im also above sea level ........boss...... and Turbo cars are not as highly affected by altitude as NA or supercharged since the turbo can spool faster to produce the same amount of boost and your wastegate will regulate the pressure in the manifold. While its true the air is a little less dense the turbo will compensate by spooling harder to pressurize the air in the manifold to the correct pressure so the motor gets the oxygen it needs to stay happy. BUT this does increase heat
Its also funny to mention how the spec numbers for the ST seem to be more broader and have such a wider range as such with this video that the guy couldnt get the car to 60 in less then 7 seconds, yet the specs claim a 5.9 second 0-60 time. All the specs on the cobalt are the same. 5.7 0-60 and the 1/4 mile at 14 flat but ive had mine clock in at 13.7 bone stock. So no the focus is by no means the "Superior" car.
And you wanna know what......that skidpad result of .96 is BS if the damn thing is only running the slalom at 65.8 MPH vs the cobalts 72.4 almost 10mph quicker. So obviously that translates to the car sticking to the ground harder around the corners and even Road and Track said that it was " Mystifying " that with a ".96 G" skidpad how it only ran 65.8 which means excessive body roll and the inability of the car to stick to the ground at higher speeds meaning those numbers are BS.
I think you mean the cobalt gets better acceleration due to no lift shifting not so much launch control. NLS maintains boost pressure going into higher gears......so obviously the cobalt was more race inspired to have high end features like no lift shift and launch control and a transmission with a REAL limited slip differential built right in without the need for aftermarket two step programming.
Ummm i dunno where you got that stat from ive seen everything from .89 to .93 i see nothing of the sort of .96G and launch control has no practical use on the street. The "dopey" wing was an option. It was not standard on the 08-10 SS turbo. The SS on paper gets 30 but ive always gotten 35 on flat highways when not heading into a wind. The ST does not look that great honestly but that of course is only opinion.
BTW ive never bottomed my suspension out on anything......the front bumper maybe yes on some really steep drive ways but thats it. Pot holes suck but then again pot holes suck on any car with low pro tires. And besides that your not SUPPOSED TO DRIVE THROUGH POTHOLES ANYWAY dumbass....Thats exactly how you RUIN your suspension and i dont care what kind of car you have Potholes = Bad. Besides the SS can do everything the ST does and better with the exception of up to date interior.
Ummm I don't know what car YOU are talking about but it certainly isnt the SS. The suspension is NOT that stiff. Sure it isnt the greatest on crappy paved roads and gravel but i can assure you its not as unbearable as you claim otherwise NO one would buy this car Because im also sure that the Nissan GTR doesnt ride some slammed spring cut honda civic either. I think your just in denial that there is a car that can best the ST in every aspect of pure driving pleasure thats in the same category
The SS turbo may be a cobalt by name but in no way shape or form does it ACT like just your average cobalt. There were a lot of bang for your buck cars that are "Rental" cars at heart. The focus is no different as was the dodge neon, civic, or any of the rest. Chevy simply did a better job taking a rental car and making it stand out so far away from its "rental car" heritage that it should have been called something else because a rental car does not beat out 300+ HP cars on the street.
The SS wasn't built for Off roading anyways so if you live in some rural little town with tons of choppy roads and dirt and gravel yeah the cobalt isn't going to be a pillowy soft ride. But the thing was designed and tuned on a track which has proven grip and cornering ability to match that of the Nissan GTR even outhandling cars like the EVO and the STI. and did ford give the focus a HUGE clutch, Limited slip dif, Launch control, no lift shift and not to mention a twin scroll turbo? Nope.
Tacky exterior body style? I'm sorry but the ST does NOT look better on the outside. And your complaining about the shift KNOB? Seriously that's all you could come up with to bash out the SS? Ill give you the cheap looking interior but obviously you dont know that the "Rough" suspension makes for much better track times and better grip on the road. The SS isn't JUST faster in a line...its faster around the track too. Don't forget about that Limited slip Dif that the focus doesn't have.
I don't think anyone can question that its one of the best FWD cars for sale, but the real question is if there is any reason to stick with a FWD if you're paying that much money for something intended to really be performance oriented.
With typical options you're looking at a 3300lb car with 250hp that gets 32mpg for $28K. For thousands less for example, Ford has their own Mustang V6 at 3500lb with 305hp that gets 29mpg but is more purpose designed for performance and RWD.
I wanted this car so bad!!!
my man u got no style at all lol Only say that because u dislike the seats & Color😂
A lot of haters here! I've driven quite a few fast cars in my life. I'm a former STi owner who had only been buying Japanese lately. When I heard about this car coming to the states I had to go take a look and after watching all the reviews (often where the reviewer is smiling and giggling most of the review) and going for a test drive I was in love. Bought it the next week. Insanely fun to drive. I get non stop compliments everywhere I go.
which will cost in a loss of power due more to temperature then actual MAP and O2 roughly about 20HP for the ST and at the elevation IM at i loose 15.3HP and 5HP is negligible. 5hp wont make or break anything ...at that point its all Driver to decide if the same car with 5hp less could beat the same car with 5hp more. so CHEERS!
Was i comparing ANYTHING else besides pure GRIP? No.... i by no means said anything about the cobalt being faster, better built, or style or anything. I was merely pointing out the fact that chevy put enough time and work into the suspension to put it almost on par with a supercar. Because in a slolom the GTR would only win by a hair.
Really? How can you say that? The SS TC you have has way more performance features, better handling, launch control, no lift shift, Limited slip differential (if you got it) and is faster and has a better audio system. Ive driven a ST before and its not nearly as fun to drive. The turbo takes a bit to spool up not like the TC which its there almost instantly.
The cobalt SS turbo is on paper and in Real life......faster then the MS3. The only videos on youtube you will find of MS3 beating a cobalt ss is if its a supercharged or an NA. Any video ive seen with an SS turbo and an MS3 is the MS3 getting beat. watch?v=HLQhrIpn860 ... watch?v=SYcWcP9YfwQ Nuf Said.
Mazda 0-60 is 5.8. Mazdaspeed3 is only 60lb heavier and has more power and torque due to K04 turbo instead of ST that has a smaller K03 turbo. ST can''t keep up with MS3, if you drove both cars as I do you will know that. With only an inteke an a tune like Hypertech or Cobb, MS3 can keep up and walk on a STI or EVO. MS3 was the best hothatch until new STI showed up. Period.
Hey, it's okay to be enthusiastic about a product you like. Now for the important question.
What suction cup mount are you using on the Canon camcorder on the passenger window?
Lastly, you are not alone in high praise. Motor Trend agrees, Chris Harris (UK) also agrees and a raft of other reviewers also agree.
AHAHAH right i believe that. Nice facts based on opinion buddy go back to your dream and come back to reality when you finally grow up and realize that facts and proof are better then " The focus is better because i say it is" bull crap. SS > ST hands down. Nuf said.
Your shifts are slow
Yes .....yes i am. If you look at skid pad results the cobalt SS turbo is only a fraction less grip then the GTR and i can bet money with better rubber then continental contacts that the cobalt could pull 1G on a corner easily.
To bad the MS3 was still bested out by the Cobalt SS turbo. But then again you are talking about hot hatches not all around bang for buck 4 cyl's. I walk my brothers MS3 all day long and believe me he tries all the time.
Try a more exciting channel Juan. As for forced induction, (turbos and supercharges) they mitigate loss, but they do not stop it altogether. The only powerplant that has no power loss at high altitude is an electric motor.
Yeah it will even if it is turbocharged the air is still less dense which would mean the turbo would have to work harder ....only a few PSI to get the same amount of air as it would at sea level.
I have a 2014 FORD focus se it sucks I never buy a Ford anymore
Sure the seats are tight. This car was made for college kids with a waist no bigger than 27"
without the seats its not such a great car. Also they have to do something about their logo. They have to match it too the car. The blue ford logo looks stupid and doesn't match
7.1 seconds from 0-60? That is terrible! I was expecting better from this car. My Honda Civic Si does it in 6.2 - 6.7 seconds on a bad day, and its stock with no turbo.... Civic Si for the win.
Yes it is, it's actually rated 0-60 in about 6.2-6.5...kinda poop for a turbo if you ask me.
Leaving the revs constant and toeing the clutch out on takeoff will give you the best control and 0-60 in sacrifice of the clutch -unfortunately. PIR and Sears Point drag experience.
who cares its a freaking test car. motortrend thrashes their test cars around the track all day. im sure nathan could afford to buy $20 cover to replace it if it broke.
Very Very Nice Video, I just test drove one today , I know what you mean...just want to go.... . I am completely in Love with it... Now trying to figure out how can I afford monthly payments , I have already brain wash my wife and now she agrees I need this toy as I work 12 hours a day
if u dont like the Focus ST why would you care if he threw the cover on the ground?
btw, im sure the cover is "built ford tough" too. so it wouldnt matter.
The best is the Abarth, dont be a trader :)
i just drove thiscar today and i loved it but take off the summer tires cause the 1 i drove rode like crap
How would you compare it to an EVO? I'm considering this or a used EVO x. I live in Idaho now, but I'm not planning on living here long. If I was going to stay here in the land of snow and ice, the awd EVO would definitely win. But as a dd, what do you think?
I bought this car in forza horizon 2 as a joke but sold it and I actually kinda miss it. I love ford!
I'm going from a 98 gt mustang to a fusion titanium , it's an upgrade but not the same, gonna miss the 5 speed and the loud roar but with a family had to cut the loss , stop putting money Into it and get something classy , fun to drive with some balls , but the ST is in the same category idk which to choose yet