Reader’s Review: Ford Focus ST

The launch locally of the new Ford ST raised my eyebrows. Not because it seems to be better in all respects than the outgoing model. More power, better fuel consumption, the promise of better handling, better interior. Everything  just…  more.

Everything that is, except the price. The new ST is being launched in two versions ST1 and ST3, to paraphrase CAR mag’s site,

“The entry-level ST1 specification includes keyless start, tyre pressure warning system, cruise control, 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted LED rear lights, fabric-trimmed Recaro sports seats, Hill-Start Assist, Torque Vectoring Control (a system that acts in a similar manner to an electronic limited-slip differential), to countertorque-steer), alarm/immobiliser, radio/CD/USB/aux-in audio system with Ford SYNC system and a host of ST styling kit (rear spoiler, model-specific steering wheel and gear knob, body kit etc.)

ST3 adds an uprated audio system, dual-zone climate control, auto lights/mirror dim and wipers,full leather trim for the Recaro seats with 8-way driver and passenger adjustment, Recaro 3-seater rear bench and bi-Xenon headlamps”

The ST1 is being launched at R309 530, including all the kit you see in the blurb above. Read that blurb again and see how much you get for your money. Recaro seats, Hill-Start assist, Torque Vectoring control, keyless start etc. The ST3 adds a bit of extra kit, but not worth that muchextra if you ask me.

The ST1 is a veritable bargain, especially as it is mechanically identical to the more expensive ST3  but my question is, how exactly have they done it? The old ST didn’t have a lot of this trick stuff and it cost a lot more. You would probably struggle to get low mileage demo versions of the old ST for 309 000.

Did the low pricing of cars Toyota’s GT86 play a part in Ford exec’s mind when they priced the ST1? Different cars to be sure, but to a young man/woman looking for something sporty an 86 must be top of their list. The ST can’t compete on styling but on bang for the buck it’s phenomenal.

The ST1 retails at the equivalent of R311 724 in the UK so we are actually getting it slightly cheaper. Imagine that!

If you compare the ST with it’s hot hatch performance rivals it’s miles cheaper, absolute miles. A plain jane Golf 6 TDi costs R322 300 and the soon to be replaced Golf 6 GTI retails at R345 000 just to give you some perspective on the ST1 price.

If you can rustle up the finance, I would say get the ST1 now while the price is still so low, it surely won’t stay there for long.

Tags: Ford, Ford Focus ST, Reader's Review, Toyota 86