Ford Focus ST | Real World Review | Autotrader
196If you're interested in a new car that's fun to drive but also practical and affordable, you might want to check out a hot hatchback -- particularly the Ford Focus ST, which is one of our favorites.
First, the basics: The Focus ST is quick, well built, fun to drive and reasonably priced, starting around $24,400. Under the hood, there's a 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which makes 252 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission is a 6-speed manual.
Like many new models, the Focus ST is available with several options packages. Our test model came equipped with the upscale ST3 package, along with $2,000 in additional options. It also featured Ford's performance option package, which includes a few racing-inspired upgrades such as a short-throw shifter, a sport suspension and a revised exhaust that improves numbers to 270 hp and 296 lb-ft of torque. Driving the Focus ST is a blast; you feel connected to the road without a truly jarring ride. Steering is tight, handling is precise, and the brakes are impressively strong.
Inside, the Focus ST includes a flat-bottomed heated steering wheel, sport gauges, aluminum pedals and a leather-trimmed shift knob. We like the available Recaro sport seats, but they're not for everyone, as they can hug the body a bit tightly. Meanwhile, we found the back seat a little snug for our tastes, though most drivers probably won't mind.
In terms of technology, the ST2 and ST3 models come with Ford's latest SYNC 3 infotainment system, along with a 10-speaker Sony sound system and a navigation system with satellite radio. As for safety, the Focus ST doesn't offer anything too advanced in the way of cutting-edge equipment, but Ford has all the basics covered with standard features such as a backup camera, anti-lock brakes, side-curtain airbags and traction control.
When you consider the fun, the pricing and the practicality, the Ford Focus ST is one of our favorite sporty new cars on the market today.
Find a Ford Focus for sale https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/Used+Cars/Ford/Focus
Read more about the Ford Focus: https://www.autotrader.com/Ford/Focus
Read more about Ford: https://www.autotrader.com/Ford
Read Ford News and Reviews: https://www.autotrader.com/car-news/ford.xhtml
Compare cars, read reviews and find deals at http://www.autotrader.com/research/index.jsp?LNX=SOMEDYTB
SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/18AY8zq
Connect with Autotrader:
Autotrader.com: http://bit.ly/1j9WART
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/18aPlru
Twitter: http://bit.ly/1iguffh
Google+: http://bit.ly/1aY5Ola
Instagram: http://bit.ly/178kwms
Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1e8su12
About Autotrader:
Our mission at Autotrader is to be your ultimate online solution for buying and selling new, certified and used cars. Not sure which type of car you want? That's okay. http://Autotrader.com lets you research and compare cars by searching for body type, mileage, price and numerous other criteria.
https://www.youtube.com/Autotrader