Ford Focus ST revealed with powerful gasoline and diesel engines

THE NEW FORD FOCUS ST MIXED PERFORMANCE AT DAY, B-ROAD FUN AND DAILY USE WITHOUT COMPROMISE

• The all-new Focus ST developed by Ford Performance and featuring advanced sports technology will be released this summer in five-door and break body styles.

• Powerful powertrains include 2.3-liter EcoBoost gasoline, 280 hp, 420 Nm, double-scroll turbo and anti-lag system; Diesel EcoBlue 2.0 liters 190 hp with 400 Nm from 2,000 rpm

• Ford's first four-wheel-drive electronic limited-slip differential improves traction and stability. Speed ​​match offered for the six-speed manual gearbox with short gear change; also available with the new seven-speed car

• Selectable driving modes, a first for Focus ST, features adjustment, including the electronic brake booster and Ford's fastest electric power steering for optimum performance

• Optimized comfort and driving experience with Recaro sports seats and advanced configuration of independent rear suspension with continuous damping

BRENTWOOD, Essex, February 18, 2019 – Ford today unveiled the all-new Focus ST – developed by Ford Performance to deliver powerful, dynamic hatchback thrills in an elegant, comfortable and practical family car.

The all-new Focus ST builds on Ford's fourth-generation state-of-the-art driving dynamics in five-door body and hatchback styles. Ford's new C2 architecture is enhanced with unique suspension, braking and powertrain configurations for the most agile and agile Focus ST driving experience of all time – on-road and on-track.

A new range of engines generates up to 12% more power and 17% more torque compared to the previous Focus ST generation. Ford's 280-hp, 2.3-liter EcoBoost petrol engine and the 190-hp 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine deliver a broad range of horsepower and torque across the entire rev range.

Ford's first application of an Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) for front-wheel drive vehicles further enhances the curves and stability of the new Focus ST, improving response to variations in grip and driver input through preemptive operation controlled by computer.

A choice of six-speed manual or new seven-speed quick-change automatic transmission is offered, and selectable Driving Modes technology is presented at Focus ST for the first time, allowing drivers to adjust the character of the vehicle according to the driving scenario. . Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) – standard for five-door EcoBoost variants – enhances the configuration of the long-arm independent rear suspension (SLA) for ultimate refinement.

"Intelligent technologies such as eLSDs and CCDs make our all-new Focus ST the most" Jekyll and Hyde "to date, capable of moving from a refined passenger car to a performance-focused, single-touch car. of a button, "said Leo Roeks, director of Ford Performance, Europe. . "We have incorporated lessons learned from programs such as the Ford GT and Focus RS to develop a mid-size performance car with a unique degree of flexibility in its segment."

Reactive power delivery
Ford's new generation of 2.3L all-aluminum EcoBoost engines are the most powerful ever for a Focus ST. Utilizing advanced turbocharger technology to deliver 280 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 420 Nm of torque from 3,000 to 4,000 rpm, it is also the fastest-running Focus ST engine of all time, and supports the expected acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in less than six seconds.

The engine response is improved through a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger, which recovers exhaust gas energy more efficiently by using separate channels to minimize interference between gas pulses. An electronically controlled relief valve allows for closer control of boost pressures for optimum engine performance. In addition, a unique exhaust system that reduces back pressure, a custom air intake system and an optimized intercooler further enhance breathing.

The innovative anti-lag technology developed for the Ford GT supercar and the F-150 Raptor pickup is introduced in the Focus ST, for immediate power delivery in the Sport and Track driving modes. The anti-lag keeps the throttle open when the driver raises the accelerator pedal, which mitigates the reversal of airflow from the turbocharger to maintain the speed of the compressor wheel and allows the boost pressure to increase more quickly on demand.

Ford's 190-hp 2.0-liter EcoBlue engine is the most powerful diesel engine ever offered for a Ford Focus model. It offers a maximum power of 3,500 rpm and a torque of 400 Nm between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm and 360 Nm from 1,500 rpm for immediate and linear acceleration.

The diesel variant includes a turbocharger with variable geometry and low inertia; steel pistons for less hot expansion; and an integrated intake system with innovative mirror porting for optimized combustion help provide a diesel powertrain that produces 10% more horsepower and more than twice as much torque as the gasoline engine Duratec ST 2.0-liter Focus ST170 first generation.

The Focus ST's six-speed manual transmission allows for more urgent shifting and a sportier feel with a 7% reduction in shift lift compared to the all-new Focus standard. Ford's new matchmaking technology that debuted on the new Ford Mustang is also introduced as part of the optional Performance Pack for the 2.3-liter EcoBoost manual models.

Offering smoother, faster downshifts, the technology comes with a shift indicator and uses the electronic engine control system to briefly "actuate" the throttle when the driver engages a lower gear, matching the rotational speed of the motor to that of the corresponding ratio. to be selected.

Matching the revs allows less experienced performance drivers to benefit from the continuous and sustained shifting provided by the "stub and tip" driving technique, while allowing experienced performance drivers to disable the system if they wish.

The performance of the new seven-speed variant of the Ford automatic gearbox is optimized, and the Adaptive Shift Scheduling feature – which evaluates individual driving styles to optimize synchronization – is enhanced to provide more flexibility and differentiation. use on road and track. Drivers can select speeds manually using shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel.

"The EcoBlue EcoBoost gasoline and diesel engines have unique features but are equally charismatic," said Roeks. "The Focus ST's" Pops and Bangs "sports soundtrack perfectly matches the spirited performance of the car and is an essential part of the ST's experience."

Intuitive dynamics enhanced with technology
Building on the driving dynamics achieved in the Ford Focus, the new Focus ST has been developed to combine the fun of driving on the B road, light performance on the track and ease of use. daily higher than those of all vehicles in its class.

The configuration of the SLA suspension optimizes the vehicle's reactions to the driver's demands without sacrificing comfort. It includes a unique geometry for real estate models that repositions the dampers, allowing the vehicle to remain agile and responsive, even at full load. The standard and energetic character of the standard Focus is retained according to the original spring specifications, with a damping stiffness increased up to 20% at the front and 13% at the front. 39, rear, while the ride height is reduced by 10 mm in order to improve handling. and response in performance driving scenarios.

Ford's sophisticated CCD technology is part of the Performance Pack for five-door EcoBoost models. Every two milliseconds, it monitors the suspension, body, steering and braking inputs to adjust damping reactions.

The driving experience is further enhanced by eLSD technology for Focus ST EcoBoost 2.3-liter models. Incorporated into the transmission, the system uses hydraulically driven clutches to limit engine torque transmitted to a wheel with reduced traction on the roadway and redistributes up to 100% of the available torque on the wheel, with more traction for counteract wheel slip. hinder acceleration in and out of turns.

The technology developed by Borg Warner is faster to deploy and offers greater accuracy than a traditional mechanical LSD. The system can pre-emptively adjust the torque distribution using powertrain sensor and vehicle dynamics inputs, rather than reacting to slippage, and can gradually apply the differential lock to optimize performance.

The 2.0-liter EcoBlue Focus ST diesel models feature Torque Vectoring Control technology, which improves handling and reduces understeer by applying braking force to the inner front wheel during cornering.

The all-new ST Focus picks up the fastest response crown of the famed Ford Fiesta ST. The electric power steering system (EPAS) is 15% faster than the standard Focus and requires only two thrust revolutions.

The unparalleled connectivity sensation is supported by a unique geometry of the steering knuckle, with a point of attachment of the rod 9 mm further forward and 6.5 mm higher than the standard Focus for sharper responses. The new steering torque disturbance reduction software for EPAS also reduces torque steering, which further facilitates the deployment of Focus ST power and torque through custom-made Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

Larger front and rear brake components form the basis of a high performance brake system with improved stopping power and fade resistance. The dimensions of the front disc have reached 330 mm x 27 mm and are equipped with double piston calipers. The rear discs now measure 302mm x 11mm. The Focus ST's braking performance was verified using the same demanding testing procedures as the Ford GT supercar, and achieved four times the fade-resistance performance of the previous Focus ST generation. tests.

The electric brake booster (EBB) of the C2 architecture also demonstrates its advantages in the Focus ST application. The technology creates a faster brake pressure than a hydraulic system for a more connected, confident and consistent pedal feel in a wider range of operating conditions. For the Focus ST, this means that the system can both mitigate the braking behavior changes encountered in high-performance driving and adjust the braking feel and dynamics according to the selected driving mode.

The Focus ST offers three standard driving modes – Sliding / Wet, Normal, Sport and – for models equipped with Performance Pack – Track driving modes set eLSD, CCD, EPAS, gas mapping, automatic transmission programming , electronic stability control, electronic sound improvement (ESE) and climatic parameters according to the driving scenario. A dedicated "Sport" button on the flat-bottomed steering wheel gives direct access to the Sport mode, while an additional "Mode" button allows drivers to quickly scroll through the driving mode options.

"Selecting the Track mode makes the braking response instantly more direct and responsive; introduced greater management efforts for more feedback; set the throttle to be more aggressive; asks the eLSD to provide maximum traction; and gives drivers more room to maneuver within the ESC system, "said David Put, Ford Performance Vehicle Dynamics. "Pilots can have full confidence in the Focus ST's ability to deliver on the track."

The Focus ST traditional gauge set features a contemporary design inspired by the Ford GT. The digital boost pressure, oil pressure and turbocharger oil temperature gauges now display on a custom-made Ford Performance display, on-screen. instrument. Launch control for consistently fast starts is also provided via the Performance Pack for 2.3-liter EcoBoost models.

Developed for form and function
Developed to be as comfortable as it is fun to drive, the all-new Focus ST takes advantage of the space and unmatched sophistication of the standard Focus range, and offers a high-end interior that combines everyday practicality with a sporty driving experience.

Ford Performance engineers have refined the positioning of the Recaro front seats, while the ESE technology amplifies engine and exhaust noise in the Sport and Track modes, reinforcing the sporty driving feel and providing extra return.

Adjusted motor mounts and an insulated subframe enhance the refinement of all occupants. Generous shoulder space and optimum knee clearance at the rear combine with a maximum luggage capacity of 1,653 liters and a shoe area that can comfortably accommodate a large dog crate, for maximum comfort and practicality.

In addition to the sport steering wheel and ebony-colored Recaro seats, the Focus ST's unique interior intensifies the sporty atmosphere thanks to a shifter knob and ST-stamped aluminum skid plates. alloy pedals; hexagonal and satin silver decorative metal elements; and gray metal stitching for seats, door inserts and center console.

The Focus ST sits on the premium sports silhouette with subtle and functional styling changes and unique alloy wheel designs. Revised designs of the upper and lower front grill are optimized for increased cooling capacity. Distinctive and distinctive wing elements direct air into the air curtain entrances for improved aerodynamic performance.

A larger and sloping rear roof spoiler increases the support force to support the driving dynamics of the ST Focus. A dual-outlet exhaust configuration borders the aggressive style rear diffuser element and enhances the convenience by offering the towing capacity that was prevented by the previous-generation center-output exhaust hoses Focus ST. The Performance Pack also adds red brake calipers.

Exterior color options chosen to highlight the Focus ST's dynamic styling include the Ford Performance Blue and Orange Fury exclusives, as well as the Frozen White, Magnetic Gray, Race Red, Ruby Red and Shadow Black colors. Bold alloy wheel options include the 18-inch Dark Sparkle and Magnetite models, along with a 19-inch Magnetite rim.

The ST Focus also benefits from a full range of sophisticated Ford driver assistance technologies that have enabled the all-new Focus to win 13 awards and a 5-star safety rating since it was released in 2018.

Technologies seamlessly integrated for an intuitive, stress-reducing and refined driving experience include:

• Adaptive cruise control is now optimized with Stop & Go, speedometer recognition and track centering for smooth stop-start traffic negotiation
• Ford's Adaptive Front Lighting System, with its new predictive curve lighting and camera-based signaling system, pre-sets the headlights for headlamps to improve visibility by monitoring the curves of the road and – for the first time times in the industry – road signs
• Active Park Assist 2 that activates the selection of gears, acceleration and braking in addition to steering, to allow fully automated maneuvers at the touch of a button
• First Ford head-up display to be offered in Europe, helping drivers focus on the road ahead
• Evasive Steering Assist, an unprecedented technology in the segment that helps drivers to drive to vehicles at a stop or slower, to avoid collisions

Ford's SYNC 3 connectivity system allows drivers to control audio, navigation, air conditioning, and connected smartphones with simple voice commands supported by an 8-inch color touch screen. The system provides free Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ™ compatibility, and available FordPass Connect integrated modem technology turns the vehicle into a mobile WiFi access point with connectivity for up to 10 devices.

"Our goal was to offer a brand new Focus ST that's as easy to drive on a daily basis as the rest of the Focus range," said Roeks. "With the full range of technology in the model, customers enjoy exciting ST performance without compromising."

The brand new Focus ST will go on sale throughout Europe in the summer of 2019.