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FA-ST FORD

New Ford Focus ST can be serious fun and flexibility while under £30,000

Ford's new baby is a medium-hot hatch, meaning it boasts a sub-six-second sprint from 0-62mph, but can also play the role of family taxi

“DON’T stop on my account”, you shout, as you pull up at footie training in your new ride.

But they have stopped. No one is kicking a ball. No one is being de-kegged. No one is saying a word.

 Drop-dead looks come in hatch and estate versions, and with the option of six-speed manual or seven-speed auto
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Drop-dead looks come in hatch and estate versions, and with the option of six-speed manual or seven-speed autoCredit: charliemagee.com

Then, suddenly, the place erupts into applause.

They love the Focus ST. We all do.

Ford has confirmed the new ST will be powered by a 280hp 2.3-litre turbo petrol with electronic limited-slip differential, rev-matching, trick suspension, Sport and Track modes, and anti-lag.

Spicy, then, with a sub-six second sprint from 0-62mph. But yet sensible as it can also play the role of family taxi.

 Under the bonnet, this Focus boasts a 280hp 2.3-litre turbo petrol engine
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Under the bonnet, this Focus boasts a 280hp 2.3-litre turbo petrol engine
 The styling of the new Focus ST is muscular and very easy on the eye
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The styling of the new Focus ST is muscular and very easy on the eyeCredit: charliemagee.com

There will be hatch and estate versions, as well as the option of six-speed manual or seven-speed auto, and diesel, when it hits the road this summer.

There’s even wifi for TEN devices.

Of course, the Focus ST is what I’d call a medium-hot hatch. The RS coming next year is your habanero hot hatch.

That’ll be 4WD and 400hp and more expensive.

 Recaros seats are another nice touch for this medium-hot-hatch
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Recaros seats are another nice touch for this medium-hot-hatchCredit: charliemagee.com
 Its a Ford, its well-equipped - but wifi for ten devices? Nice
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Its a Ford, its well-equipped - but wifi for ten devices? NiceCredit: charliemagee.com

But for serious fun and flexibility under £30,000, it’s this or a Hyundai i30N.

Back of the net.

Sun Man Ken tests the new Ford Focus ST