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For The ST handles sweetly and rides smoothly, plus it delivers awesome performance thanks to a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that produces 247bhp and 250lb ft of torque.

Against There’s no fancy limited slip differential, so you feel some torque steer as you pour on the power. Resale values are likely to be weak.

Ford Focus Hatchback

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

Ford’s Focus ST may not be as quick or as trick some hardcore rivals, such as the Renault Megane 265 Cup, but it’s a beautifully rounded machine, representing the cerebral choice for discerning hot hatch aficionados.

What Car? readers say

3.714286


Key facts

0–60mph
6.5 secs
Top speed
154 mph
Average mpg
39.2
Tank range
474 miles
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View the whole Ford Focus Hatchback range

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Read in full

The full Ford Focus Hatchback 2.0T 250 Ecoboost ST-2 review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

There isn't a bad engine among the ones in the Ford Focus range that we've tried, but we reckon the best is the 113bhp 1.6 diesel. It’s strong enough and impressively smooth, although it’s not as efficient as some rivals in real-world driving.

All versions come with air-conditioning, electric front windows and a USB connection. Popular Zetec trim adds alloys, Bluetooth, a digital radio and a heated windscreen. We’d understand if you wanted to upgrade to Titanium trim, because this brings more convenience equipment and a posher-looking dashboard that gives the cabin a real lift, although it’s not cheap.

However you specify your Focus, make sure you get a big discount. Dealers should be prepared to knock off thousands of pounds, especially on more expensive versions. The Focus doesn’t have particularly strong resale values, so a discount will help partially offset the steep depreciation.

Reader test team says:

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec S 5dr

I took delivery of this car in April 2012, after negotiating a discount of roughly 18% plus options worth over £2500 all in the price was just over…

duncan sims

4 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.0T 125 Ecoboost Zetec 5dr

I test drove the above car yesterday. I liked it so much. I bought the 1.0 Ecoboost Titanium X. Pick it up at the end of this month. I will only…

Kevin Scott

5 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback Focus 5dr

I wrote a review for this car when I first took delivery in July 2011, and overall I'd still say its an ok car. However, in terms of the owning…

John Bevan

3 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec 5dr

We used to own this model, but are delighted to have sold it on. After only a few miles, the after depressing the clutch, the pedal refused to rise…

John Davies

1 out of 5 stars
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