I have a Focus ST, and I'll just quote a friend of mine. "It's just simply fun to drive." It's not the fastest, it's not the best handling, but it is the best overall. It does everything equally well, and it's so much cheaper than the competitors. If you haven't gotten to test drive one, and put your foot into it, you really can't say anything. The sound note from the exhaust alone, is reason enough to buy this car. It's beautiful.
I've watched about a dozen of your channels review, and just as many Focus ST Reviews. You are a great reviewer, managing to stay just as enthused about a base level focus, and even MPV Galaxy as you do this car. This is also the punniest, most entertaining and informative review of the ST I have come across. Keep up the good work!
TheVdub1988 I'm a BMW man at heart although I'm fond of most German built compact - medium autos, so it pains me to say that you're a little way off. Having driven both the Focus ST and Golf GTI on and off the track I can say with confidence that the Ford feels that bit sharper and more responsive. The ST is one of those cars that you could drive all day without getting tired of the experience. It handles perfectly and packs real punch. The GTI is just as pacey but is let down by its clumsy steering. I can't fault the ST...it's a true drivers car. As for the GTI...I was disappointed. The second car I owned was a 2006 GTI and I thought the world of it at the time. The most recent GTI lacks the ability to deliver the thrills like the previous mark. Don't always be fooled by the spending more buys you more rhetoric, either. I've learnt this the hard way, I'm afraid.
if you think that ford requires a lot of maintenance you've just invalidated your opinion. i've worked on everything porsches to oldsmobiles and fords really are one of the best brands in terms of quality and engineering. they do stuff that makes sense, thats why i like em.
While this car is great, I wish they'll go back and draw more from the design of the mk 1 for the next generation Focus. Imho they had struck gold with the focus mk1, coming up with a very distinctive design which sadly they mostly left behind in mk2 and mk3.
Golf GTI sent me to Vauxhall Astra VXR who sent me to Reneaultsport Megane 265 who sent me here, who now sent me the VW Scirocco. Love how carbuyer does that.
Surprised there's quite a bit of torque steer when one of the main selling points they pushed was their new system which is supposed to correct a significant amount of it before you feel it in the wheel.
It should be a perfect car for alone driving, obviously focused on a driving with passengers rather than hauling cargo. How to know if bikes have something in common... there some parts similar. If there is something interesting about a car it's not something about having secret places to put things, but it's performance.
I'll agree with you on about the Mk3 Focus ST (the one in the video) but not with the Mk2 Focus ST with the 2.5 Litre 5 Cylinder Volvo engine... that car is as much a thrill as any review says.. I know because I own one :)
I agree with you... I'd prefer any of the other hatchbacks he mentioned. Also, at least where I live, the GTI and the Scirocco GT are actually 2000 euros less than the Focus ST.
I like it, like the looks and the balance between performance and comfort seems good. Overcomes the shortcoming for me. Also the price is excellent. I would probably pick either this or the megane
if u want a modern hot hatch with power, style and somethin that will make u smile everytime u drive it, it has to be the honda civic type r mugen, space age looks, great vtec engine and gearbox, bullet proof reliability,
It's certainly an interesting looking car. My luck with Ford wasn't so great over the years. (I actually had much better luck with Dodge.) But from an X Ford owner, I must say this car was tempting.
The 2.5l old motor 5 cylinder sounds a lot better. Especially with a reflash and A/M exhaust. Overall the last model had more going for it as an everyday car
But that being said... If I HAD to buy a four door RIGHT NOW it would definitely be this focus ST! Here in te states it's only real competitor from a price/performance/practicality standpoint is the wrx wagon and I like the styling of this ford a bit better. Until that time I do need a 4 door I'll stick with my FRS... ;)
Anyone watching in the US or Canada, PLEASE call or write Ford Customer Service. Tell them we want the new generation Fiesta ST and/or Focus ST in the U.S./Canadian market. If all their customers are telling them, they'll listen and bring us BACK these hot hatches. Thank you for your support in this petition effort!
I disagree. On paper, the ford has much more power. However its acceleration is limited by its manual gearbox. The VW may have less BHP and torque, but the DSG makes up for it in that it can change gear faster than any human possibly can. As a result, the 0-60 times for both cars are quite close.
You know whats weird? How NONE of these fucking journalists in any magazine has mentioned the criminally soft and inadequate rear motor mount. I thought the motor was coming through my fire wall after my first 1-2 shift while under spirited driving, you would think they would notice it, i always have to explain away what the fuck that loud ass bang is to every friend that has rode in my ST.
Im not talking about exhaust pop, my car does that with the exhuast i have on it now, im talking about the rear engine mount, its complete shit and criminal that ford let it slide through the factory with it. I installed the stage 2 CPE rmm, and its a completely different car now, shifter feels connected, no more 1-2 bang, just a nice solid thud. Michael, i recommend buying the mount that i bought from CPE, its $250....but it is worth it and only took me 35 min to install on a lift.
Thumbs up for a good review. This gave more perspective than the car mags I've been reading over here in the US about actually living with the car and driving it. Too bad [Jeremy] Clarkson wasn't available to do some 100mph drifts while screaming like a madman... :-p
The Focus scores better in practicality and power, but the Fiesta is more engaging to drive, more agile, and the 190+ BHP is already a lot for a hot hatch. Depends on what are your priorities.
Felix Chan I'm picking this thread up late but I will say the fiesta is better in the bends at high speed , I think the focus is a little quicker in gear .
True, but in terms of quality, mechanics, technology, the 1-series or the A3 beat the Focus ST. Basically in every aspect those 2 cars are better than the Ford. I don't know what is there to like in a Focus more than in those 2 cars.
Have to say this new st is a huge dissapointment, the old st was miles better than the old astra vxr, its the other way around now, and also only available in 5 door? Crazy, it is also a very large car, looks more like an estate than a hot hatch
@thevdub1988 lol.. Poor people. I guess you have never actually driven those cars. If you compare a gti with a st you'll notice that a gti is boring to drive
not a fan, not a lot of time has been put into aesthetics. When engineers focus (pardon the pun) on the driving experience they should not forget that how it looks helps you love it that little bit more
Spend the 3 grand extra and buy a Golf. You will get that back in residuals come resale time. Secondly it won't fall apart on you and it isn't named after a Sanitary Pad.
I have a Focus ST, and I'll just quote a friend of mine. "It's just simply fun to drive." It's not the fastest, it's not the best handling, but it is the best overall. It does everything equally well, and it's so much cheaper than the competitors. If you haven't gotten to test drive one, and put your foot into it, you really can't say anything. The sound note from the exhaust alone, is reason enough to buy this car. It's beautiful.
get this man on top gear
I do not agree because he is not funny
no
LordMehar neither are any of the current top gear presenters!
this aged well.
I've always said that
I've watched about a dozen of your channels review, and just as many Focus ST Reviews. You are a great reviewer, managing to stay just as enthused about a base level focus, and even MPV Galaxy as you do this car. This is also the punniest, most entertaining and informative review of the ST I have come across. Keep up the good work!
I find it hard to believe he questioned the looks. I think it looks pretty good.
Oh my god a young Matt Watson 🤣
Congrats on your new camera. I like to think that's a gift for Carbuyers success!
TheVdub1988 I'm a BMW man at heart although I'm fond of most German built compact - medium autos, so it pains me to say that you're a little way off. Having driven both the Focus ST and Golf GTI on and off the track I can say with confidence that the Ford feels that bit sharper and more responsive. The ST is one of those cars that you could drive all day without getting tired of the experience. It handles perfectly and packs real punch. The GTI is just as pacey but is let down by its clumsy steering.
I can't fault the ST...it's a true drivers car. As for the GTI...I was disappointed. The second car I owned was a 2006 GTI and I thought the world of it at the time. The most recent GTI lacks the ability to deliver the thrills like the previous mark. Don't always be fooled by the spending more buys you more rhetoric, either. I've learnt this the hard way, I'm afraid.
if you think that ford requires a lot of maintenance you've just invalidated your opinion. i've worked on everything porsches to oldsmobiles and fords really are one of the best brands in terms of quality and engineering. they do stuff that makes sense, thats why i like em.
Just brought one. Amazing to drive!!!
Who’s here when he is now car wow
While this car is great, I wish they'll go back and draw more from the design of the mk 1 for the next generation Focus. Imho they had struck gold with the focus mk1, coming up with a very distinctive design which sadly they mostly left behind in mk2 and mk3.
I have not even started to watch the review and I already commented, liked, and mark it as favorite!
Nice review! Really like the focus, and this model just makes it better!
Golf GTI sent me to Vauxhall Astra VXR who sent me to Reneaultsport Megane 265 who sent me here, who now sent me the VW Scirocco. Love how carbuyer does that.
Surprised there's quite a bit of torque steer when one of the main selling points they pushed was their new system which is supposed to correct a significant amount of it before you feel it in the wheel.
Is it possible to hook up a towbar on it or is the exhaust in the way?
exaust will be in the way
Not sure if it’s just me but I test drove a 2013 st recently and I found it too be quit bumpy in its ride
tuned diesel hits 450lb torque... it's a monster
prototek128
Get ready to fork out for a new flywheel
Is this the same , ecoboost engine , which is in the US cars ??
I think a diesel is also available in Britain too.
One of the best exhaust notes from any car much less any hatch back! Sounds like a mini mustang met an import :-)
is it just me or did the bonnet look open?
I know the comment is 7 years late, but I've got an ST2 and the clearance in the bonnet is scary lol. Permanently looks open!
@@Nathey15 it's for engine bay cooling. Done like that so not to tread on the RS' shoes I imagine.
the five-cylinder volvo engine is what made the last ST so cool. This one I could take it or leave it.
wow every1 talking about all the latest new performances cars and im still stuck with the Mk1 focus ST170, i need to upgrade at least to a Mk2
Still have SVT Focus, Yankee version, must upgrade also.
Casual Agent I’ve got the mk3.5 now and it’s an amazing machine, can be eco friendly too if you don’t put your foot down.
"Puts everything into focus"
I see what you did there. xD
so in the end Mat wanted to say that the golf GTI is better or not?
I don't understand. Usually you have a negative comment on the lip in the truck the back seats and only now you used the term Performance car
It should be a perfect car for alone driving, obviously focused on a driving with passengers rather than hauling cargo. How to know if bikes have something in common... there some parts similar. If there is something interesting about a car it's not something about having secret places to put things, but it's performance.
speaking about price at the end was really brave and fair:))
The interactive transcript on this video is quality.
They shoulda added a 3 door version as every Focus ST has always had 3 doors and to me it doesn't look that sportive
looks are a personal opinion, I think it looks amazing!
I'll agree with you on about the Mk3 Focus ST (the one in the video) but not with the Mk2 Focus ST with the 2.5 Litre 5 Cylinder Volvo engine... that car is as much a thrill as any review says.. I know because I own one :)
Is the engine reliable tho? Any common problems with these?!?
I agree with you... I'd prefer any of the other hatchbacks he mentioned.
Also, at least where I live, the GTI and the Scirocco GT are actually 2000 euros less than the Focus ST.
I can't wait for the 2015 mustang review
Me too I love that car
in the UK you only get a 2.0 litre ecoboost engine. wich is useless because the reason you buy a mustang you buy it for the v8 don't you?
johnny begood yes but it'll have less power
Gotta love the Asbo.
Not really, the Focus ST is outputting 252hp and 270lb-ft of torque, as opposed to the GTI making 200hp and 207lb-ft of torque respectively.
I like it, like the looks and the balance between performance and comfort seems good. Overcomes the shortcoming for me. Also the price is excellent. I would probably pick either this or the megane
The UK economy test must be so easy. So many cars get 50+MPG where in every other country it gets no where near
Love your reviews.
I'd love to have one of these.
Why it looks so orange?! Mine looks too yellow
if u want a modern hot hatch with power, style and somethin that will make u smile everytime u drive it, it has to be the honda civic type r mugen, space age looks, great vtec engine and gearbox, bullet proof reliability,
It's certainly an interesting looking car.
My luck with Ford wasn't so great over the years. (I actually had much better luck with Dodge.)
But from an X Ford owner, I must say this car was tempting.
The 2.5l old motor 5 cylinder sounds a lot better. Especially with a reflash and A/M exhaust. Overall the last model had more going for it as an everyday car
I beg to differ on the everyday driver part. Sound is opinion but the everyday driver I can't see even being a comparison.
Does Ford have a sporty version of the Fiesta to?
Top gear should restart as a information based show like it used to be and this man should front it.
A ford is for someone who can "afford" it. Get it....
what should my name be? 🤣😂😉
What if they do new ST vs old ST?
MATS Channel as a mk3 owner if find that very interesting
I'd not if
Yay, HQ. Can't stand the other reviews that other guys upload in 360p or whatever.
Normal focus isn't the best handling car in it's class, the MG6 is!
Hooray for the MG6
What are you on about compairing it to a GTI,totaly different price range.
This has to be the best model created by Ford lovely color of Orange.
is it an sti? cause if not get a turbo in it and go with the wrx
im between this and the 09 subaru wrx, what do you think?
But that being said... If I HAD to buy a four door RIGHT NOW it would definitely be this focus ST! Here in te states it's only real competitor from a price/performance/practicality standpoint is the wrx wagon and I like the styling of this ford a bit better. Until that time I do need a 4 door I'll stick with my FRS... ;)
It says fiesta st in the description @carbuyer
it says Fiesta st in description
No that's a link to the Fiesta ST review
+Bruce Lee
oh okay thanks
what did you go all the way to wales for ???
what if they make a diesel version of this ? would it be called the STD?
Anyone watching in the US or Canada, PLEASE call or write Ford Customer Service. Tell them we want the new generation Fiesta ST and/or Focus ST in the U.S./Canadian market. If all their customers are telling them, they'll listen and bring us BACK these hot hatches. Thank you for your support in this petition effort!
They gonna stop making focus and fiesta next year
I disagree. On paper, the ford has much more power. However its acceleration is limited by its manual gearbox. The VW may have less BHP and torque, but the DSG makes up for it in that it can change gear faster than any human possibly can. As a result, the 0-60 times for both cars are quite close.
I think the old ST had more character and a more interesting engine. But I still really like this new one 8-)
You know whats weird? How NONE of these fucking journalists in any magazine has mentioned the criminally soft and inadequate rear motor mount. I thought the motor was coming through my fire wall after my first 1-2 shift while under spirited driving, you would think they would notice it, i always have to explain away what the fuck that loud ass bang is to every friend that has rode in my ST.
What on earth are you on about? Many exhausts make a 'pop' sound, not just the ST.
Im not talking about exhaust pop, my car does that with the exhuast i have on it now, im talking about the rear engine mount, its complete shit and criminal that ford let it slide through the factory with it. I installed the stage 2 CPE rmm, and its a completely different car now, shifter feels connected, no more 1-2 bang, just a nice solid thud. Michael, i recommend buying the mount that i bought from CPE, its $250....but it is worth it and only took me 35 min to install on a lift.
this was rectified mid-year in 2014 models. They all now use the same mount as the electric Focus.
I have 2014 st and I know exactly what u talking about, I got cobb MT, and its lot better, better 0-60, and more tract
Mine is a 14', I since fixed the issue with the CPE Stg 2 rear motor mount.
Great review!
Thumbs up for a good review. This gave more perspective than the car mags I've been reading over here in the US about actually living with the car and driving it. Too bad [Jeremy] Clarkson wasn't available to do some 100mph drifts while screaming like a madman... :-p
Not yet. But It's coming!
@1:40 "...and if you do make a complete hash of things, there's always the excellent AIRBAGS to help keep your face in one piece".
It will be awesome if Carbuyer fans watch an episode wherein Matt and Rebecca battle each other in the racetrack driving the cars of their choice.
Comparing the price, why would anyone buy a Focus ST over an BMW 1 or Audi A3?
LOL the turbo gauge dial,come on guys,ENGINEERS CLEARLY HAVEN'T FOCUSED AT THE FOCUS. but i love ford.
Faster than a GTI with a manual transmission, perhaps. But against a GTI with a DSG, it should be close call
Love the pun at the end.
What is that watch he is wearing ?
Wasn't golf up against the focus?
The Ford PowerShift dual clutch transmission IMO is even better than the VW DSG.
Focus ST or Fiesta ST? Which is better?
Focus st
The Focus scores better in practicality and power, but the Fiesta is more engaging to drive, more agile, and the 190+ BHP is already a lot for a hot hatch. Depends on what are your priorities.
Felix Chan
I'm picking this thread up late but I will say the fiesta is better in the bends at high speed , I think the focus is a little quicker in gear .
Dorifto Kingu! Focus.
great car thank god its in the states now
True, but in terms of quality, mechanics, technology, the 1-series or the A3 beat the Focus ST. Basically in every aspect those 2 cars are better than the Ford. I don't know what is there to like in a Focus more than in those 2 cars.
Have to say this new st is a huge dissapointment, the old st was miles better than the old astra vxr, its the other way around now, and also only available in 5 door? Crazy, it is also a very large car, looks more like an estate than a hot hatch
Could you review the Hyundai Elantra or Accent?
Don't think this St is anything special doesn't really set itself apart from the normal focus looks wise
how much it cost to have one?
I agree with you completely.
Underpowered compared to competition I believe, but the interior is more post looking
can't wait for the RS
hey you reused the 1:12 footage at 3:29. Go back and re-edit!
@thevdub1988 lol.. Poor people. I guess you have never actually driven those cars. If you compare a gti with a st you'll notice that a gti is boring to drive
not a fan, not a lot of time has been put into aesthetics. When engineers focus (pardon the pun) on the driving experience they should not forget that how it looks helps you love it that little bit more
"Going around the bend with Mach 2"
Like the can go that fast...
The old st was much better , with body design and the 5 cylinder volvo engine was oike music to my ears, this the new i dont like it that much.
Spend the 3 grand extra and buy a Golf. You will get that back in residuals come resale time.
Secondly it won't fall apart on you and it isn't named after a Sanitary Pad.
can we get this car in automatic transmission in forward delivery basis...
anyone..?
I love the ST.
Actually not even the MG6, the BMW 1 series is with its RWD
Ford is making some good products.
If Aston Martin marketed peasant cars...
I like the color.
good review