This car or really any of the other ST models...is literally perfect for me. I'm in love with it and I don't even own it...yet.

@IndefiniteMark

3 жыл бұрын

Yet yet?

@keesknees

2 жыл бұрын

It's been a year, do you own one yet ?

Great car, sounds great, handles amazing, I mean amazing and has lots of grunt. Have the 2014 ST3 in performance blue, perfect daily commuter that provides loads of fun. Ford racing has a power pack that whacks on up to 90 lb ft of torque and about 40 horsepower, crazy fun!! Best hot hatch out there, well done Ford!

I have to say, as a GTI enthusiast, that this seems like a really nice car. Nice exterior and interior, manual gearbox only, and beautiful engine note. Well done, Ford. Well done.

Rear-seat folding: The seat-bottoms will flip up and fold forward, you remove the head-rests from the seat-backs, and then you can get a perfectly flat load-floor back there. Remove the cargo-cover (attached to the hatchback lid) and you can fit a good deal of cargo back there.

@nezerac

10 жыл бұрын

Crazy...that's how my 88 Escort works! lol. No head rests though so no issues there. I know the 100% ford now, I just wish they would've kept the Escort name and brought over the Cosworth models.

@trollpops35

10 жыл бұрын

Thank you, I dont understand why people cant figure this out. Do you think you can fit a mattress back there.

@LMacNeill

10 жыл бұрын

+trollpops35 I don't' think a mattress would fit in the back of a Focus, even with the seats folded down properly. Even if you had a mattress narrow enough to fit in there (like a twin-size for example), it would still be too long to get the tailgate shut. Queen-size and king-size would be too wide to even get through the opening in the tailgate at all.

I purchased one just like this with the ST3 package and power moon roof. It is the best balance of fuel efficiency and power. Fold the back seats down and you can fit just about anything. Love it

The seat can be adjusted for height to accommodate all drivers, it didn't have much roll in the corners, the ST does not have a limited slip diff, it has what ford calls torque vectoring control that mimics one. Cup holders were the standard ones in the reg focus and the side mirrors manually fold.

If you know how to drive manual but have just never owned a manual and driven it every day we understand your reservations. Our Editor in Chief was in your position before he bought his MT Fit. However, once you start driving it everyday, you will quickly get used to it and most likely will never want to drive an automatic again. BTW, the clutch and shifter in the vehicle are great, clutch is light and easy, and shifter glides through its gates, it would be a great daily driver

Can you flip the bottom cushion forward, remove the headrests and fold the rear seat flat like in a regular focus hatchback?

I love the ST !! I currently drive a GTI and it does have dual climate controls, despite what you said in the video. Thanks for the Great review !

I own a GTI and am SERIOUSLY considering getting the ST thanks to your review! Great Job!

It actually had 9 miles on it already when it was taken off the truck. Ford test drives the cars at the factory to make sure it is running ok. Specialty cars like this are usually not allowed to be test driven too far or at all for the expensive ones. We personally respect all vehicles on the lot and make sure they aren't driven hard unless they are properly broken in.

Just bought this car used. Under 10k miles, St3 package for 22800 and I love the performance blue. Awesome car!!

We are referring to the current MKVI model. We realize some MkV models are equipped with dual zone auto temp control and we really feel that VW shouldn't have removed the option on the current model. We aren't saying the GTI isn't a great car, it's just looking a tad long in the tooth next to this fresh model. No car can be class leader forever but it makes this interesting when cars compete. It all benefits us, the consumer.

Like we said before, Ford knows that customers interested in the ST are driving enthusiasts, they don't care or have a need for driver aid features like active park assist because they can drive quite well.

The Mazda's NAV screen is not as large and the vehicle was just updated with a new NAV system for 2013 and that is also when they finally USB to the vehicle from the factory. It also doesn't have a sunroof available and fully loaded with the tech package is just under $28,000.

This by far is the best review so far.. I had mine ST3 ordered since May. Good job man !!

Not everyone wants a RWD coupe like the Mustang... A Mazdaspeed 3 and GTI competes with this car and both will get up near 30 grand fully loaded. Price wise, this car is right on the money.

We would agree with you, as for the reliability of this model, it's too new to predict. While that can be risky, it's also the fun part about driving an all new model. It's a new car anyways so if something goes wrong just take it to the dealer and it will not cost you a thing.

Permission was granted, and the car was not beaten on in any way... we do not abuse the cars, they are test driven the same way you would if you were to go to your local dealer and drive the vehicle.

The kind of consumer that purchases this type of vehicle generally doesn't care about a feature like that or driver aid features since most are driving enthusiast and can drive quite well.

We aren't telling you to buy it, we are just saying to keep an open mind that's all. It's all in good fun whenever a manufacturer introduces a vehicle to challenge the class leaders

At 65, it's doing about 2500 RPM. Noise levels are about the same as a GTI.

This was actually shot with a $1,200 Sony Camcorder. Now we use over $10,000 worth of equipment. Are you sure you didn't just forget to change the quality to 1080p?

We're sorry you feel that way... what exactly did we not point about regarding specifications of the ST?

Either water from the fact that it was just washed or it was the A/C condensation since I had it running

The car was fully up to temperature and never revved past 4000. Thrashing it would be redlining it and we do not to do that the new cars. It didn't do any harm to the vehicle.

No worries, we've heard turbo gauge as well. It all means the same thing. Technically, it shows the boost pressure of the turbo which is probably why boost gauge is more common in the U.S. Glad you enjoyed the review :)

We understand your concern, but we are glad you enjoyed the review!

Ford has a $2500 rebate on the ST right now and you can actually buy an ST3 for around $24,500 after rebates and discounts.

Not really, insurance companies will charge a premium on a performance model. For instance, they do know the difference between a regular Civic and an Si model. But it really depends on your age and driving record. As well as the insurance company in general. Just make sure you shop around for the best rate.

The current GTI is not available with auto temp control in the U.S. In other markets that isn't the case.

We had permission, also, why would you say this competes with the Golf R... that vehicle is AWD and cost $10,000 more. Just because the Golf R matches more closely in terms of output to the ST doesn't mean they compete. Price wise and drive train architecture matches this car up to the GTI.

You will def notice the ST has much more pull in every gear versus the GTI. What year is your GTI and how has it been treating you?

They're all great cars. I purchased a MkVI GTI in 2011. The ST either wasn't out or was out of my price range at the time (I got a base GTI for 22k). The standard focuses that I drove felt like a lot of new cars--the dash is high, the beltline is high--and I was surprised that I couldn't find a good seating position (knee hits the sidewall), but that is likely specific to me. FWIW, I really enjoyed my GTI. Found it very easy to see out of and people were plenty comfortable in the back (3door!)

Hopefully Ford will make all season tires a no cost options for the vehicle

It is inside the center console next to the USB input

What was your reason for choosing the GTI over the ST, especially if you are a Ford person?

That sound is fantastic. Reminds me of the LNF in the Cobalt SS Turbo. A nice turbo-back exhaust (catless downpipe and new muffler mostly) will make it sound even better. Add a tune and this thing will fly.

A hard decision, we'd say you need to take a hard look at how you will drive this vehicle everyday. If you are expecting it to be more of a daily driver to carry your stuff and passengers around, we'd suggest the ST. If you are expecting more track usage or just want the ability to do smoky burnouts and don't mind a noisier interior and stiffer ride, the Mustang may be a better choice. It's your decision, think which is more important for you :)

It's a possibility, our editor in chief is waiting to see a few more vehicles released first.

I just bought a Tuxedo Black ST2 Wednesday and absolutely love it. Coming from a Focus ZX3 this thing is definitely a blast to drive.

Dual zone auto temp is not available on US spec GTI's

Not all the states require it, VA is one of the few that does

The rear hatch area should be the same size as the titanium with the sony sound system. We personally thought the factory 10 speaker sound system already sounds great :)

oh and to answer the previous question. yes it does have VCT (variable camshaft timing). A separate pump that runs off the intake creates over 2,200 psi of fuel pressure which allows for the direct fuel injection

It really depends on you. Test drive both and decide for yourself. We personally think the GTI is still a bit softer and more comfortable. But the ST is more focused on performance and does a much better job of blending the two than the Speed3

It does have more torque steer than a GTI and the engine doesn't have as much low end pull as well. Although when the boost kicks in, it pulls much harder than the GTI

We aren't sure where you heard 13,000 RPM as our editor in chief definitely said "At 50 MPH in 6th gear it is spinning at under 2,000 RPM"

Thanks! We are glad you enjoyed it :)

While both are excellent performance cars, what the ST offers is more practicality, it's a better daily driver over a Mustang.

Watch a lot reviews on the ST and this had lots of info not found in other reviews. Good job, thanks!

There was a boost gauge in the middle... we're sorry that you feel that way.

382 was the range on the gas tank, this car has 10 miles on it from the factory

We're sorry you think that is the case, in all actuality Jerry's very much respects all the vehicles on the lot and make sure the vehicles are not tampered or abused

That's it, man! Mine has a couple of upgrades (280hp) and it runs awesome with the best sound of the hot hatchback sector.

You know what Sofyan. You made me want this car so badly!

Great review and test drive. He kinda sounds like Leonard off of Big Bang Theory :-)

I'd love to test drive one of these, but I'm pretty happy with my GTI. I've never felt the need for extra power, and it makes a great daily driver. That said, the Focus is a great car. If I were buying a new car now, I'd definitely give it a look

The fire recall only applies to the 1.6 Ecoboost not the 2.0 motor

Thats good to know, we also agree the sweet spot is past 3k and it keeps pulling into redline. What are you averaging MPG wise and how many miles do you get per tank? We were curious of that since the ST has somewhat of a small gas tank

While we agree with you that the vehicle needs the HIDs, some people also just don't care and would rather save the money. We do think that Ford should make the HIDs a stand alone option

We were sticking with just the FWD hot hatches

I love that awesome looking, futuristic interior. That performance blue looks great too. I would prefer an ST3 with the available sunroof, but this exact ST2 with navigation & sunroof would be my second choice if I were in the market for this car. If gas prices keep going up, I may be in the market for this car as my fall & winter daily driver, while keeping my other car for the spring & summer. We'll see what happens. Thanks for the great review. Nicely done.

The STI and ST does not compete, that is what the Focus RS is for

It would be a fine replacement!

The standard Focus 5MT has the hill holder feature, we would imagine the ST would as well

No, this is a DOHC engine, the clatter noise is from the Direct Fuel Injection.

i just love that v8 tone on that 4 cylinder

I know the head rests come off, and I think that the rear seat backs are hinged so you can pull on them and make them flat after the headrests are out.

The rear seats actually do fold flat, you have to lift the rear of the seat bottom, and they rotate towards the front seats, giving the seat backs a place to fold down to. Otherwise, good review. I can't wait for a test drive! I just can't stand when people get something wrong, especially something so many will criticize a car on, but don't know any better.

Wow I LOVE this! Finally a Focus I'd really like to buy. My only complains are the exhaust could have a nicer note especially outside, the grill could use a little treatment along the borders, and honestly I'm still hesitant of Ford's reliability. But still, I think I would take this over the current GTI and Speed3

AWEsome looking car. Nicely appointed too. I would buy one. What was dripping on the right hand side of the engine near the block? It was dripping quite a bit.

actually ive went into the dealership to buy a mustang gt auto because i couldnt drive a manual but they said i gotta try the ford focus st and i did and i did not stall it once im not gonna lie. The car goes even if you dont press the gas from the first gear and it will be hard for you to stall going into first because it has enough torque to pull the car even when youre not hitting the gas pedal so i would recommend this car for sure for people who can not drive a manual and wants one

I test drove the ST in Florida the other week and loved it. I also test drove the Mustang GT and I preferred the ST. Loved that torque. When I gave it the second gear start test from a stop it started to go easily. This is a great Hot Hatch for the price point.

i would love to test drive new cars and review them, you do this well!

The WRX is AWD and it cannot match the fuel economy, refinement, technology, and interior quality of the ST. Hot hatches like this fully loaded reach $30 grand. Ford has bench marked the GTI with this car and it's still about $1500 less expensive than that vehicle.

Yes, the ST has a hill holder function

Better yet go drive both. I bought the MS3 because it was under 25K with the tech package and felt significantly more powerful. It has a higher "fun" quotient, which immediately knocks the GTI off my list and left the ST a close runner-up. Not to mention the nightmare issues my friend has had with his GTI devouring cam followers on the HPFP and a myriad of electrical problems.

Bought a Fusion Sport last year and seeing this video is making me second guess that decision!

Let's just say he was all giddy like a "little girl" when he finally got a hold of the keys ;)

There is a reason why back seats don't fold flat. If you forget a loose item at the back under moderate braking it doesn't roll over all the way to the front. The angle of the back seat stops that item to roll and keeps it in the back of the car.

Kudos, bro. I've watched several car review vids and I must say your knowledge, expertise and professionalism takes the cake. Thank you.

We did an updated review of this vehicle

Great review. I like that you really waste no time. I actually prefer that you speak pretty fast and give a good, quick look at the vehicle. I mean, if someone really needs to stare at something they can pause it, but when someone talks really slow... well fast forwarding on streaming videos isn't exactly graceful.

im actually looking for a balance of sporty fun, and high mpg in a package less than 20k. have no clue as to which car best suits what i want but the chevy sonic RS really has my attention. Im just way to big to get comfy in it being 6'3" and 235#'s. If theyd bring the fiest st here then i'd definitely get it!

Love your reviews! I'm a car fan also! Keep em coming!

Switching the architecture to RWD would simply cost too much money and drive the price of this vehicle too high. It competes with the FWD hot hatch market. Automakers essential take their bread and butter compact cars and give them more power and tune the suspension differently. By doing it like that, it keeps the price down and offers attainable performance to younger buyers. If you want RWD, you need to spend another $10,000 on a sports sedan.

you've made me to fall in love with ford focus

this car sounds BRILLIANT!

Just got this car love it

The ST2 has the 10 speaker Sony Audio System

How is the seat position? Do you feel like you are sitting high? Any roll in the corners? Limited slip? Auto folding side mirrors? Cup holders? Good review!

When I sold my 2005 Altima and bought a new GTI, my insurance only went up about $200 per year. Not bad at all, considering I was 19 when I bought it

I agree, not to mention how tiny the guage is. I will have to remove it and get aftermarket guages.

Why do you say that? It's the same engine from the other Ford products and they are ecoboost engines...

we sure can, anything specific you want covered?

Well I had been driving it when the car suggested switching gears and was getting 24 mpg. Lately I've been driving it how I like to switch gears, which is waiting later til about 3k rpm, and I get better gas mileage. I haven't reset it yet so I don't know what the new average is, but so far it has increased almost a full 1 per gallon. So right now it seems I'm getting about 200 miles per tank. I'll have to see what it comes out to next tank of gas I get.

yes, the base ST is already on sale as well. Those have an MSRP of $24,495

The licence plate holder ruins the front end but it is still a nice looking car. Great Review!

great review i’m hopefully picking one up this july!!