Ace of Base: 2016 Ford Focus ST

The origins of this series focused on wheels inhabiting the dank basements of the price scale for particular models. This suggestion, then, helpfully sent in by a member of the B&B, doesn’t appear to fit that measure.

However, I and a few others consider the ST to be a model unto itself, not unlike the manner in which Volkswagen treats the almighty GTI in the Golf lineup. So, what can buyers expect in a No Frills model of the Ford Focus ST?

Swilling spicy 93-octane fuel, the turbocharged direct-injection 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine cranks out 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission available is a six-speed manual, the way nature and Henry Ford intended. Trying to sell the idea of buying an ST to your significant other? The EPA rated 31 miles per gallon should help, as will the practicality afforded by its five-door hatchback body style.

The $0 hue of Race Red shown above is my preferred extrovert colour, especially in the light of Ford seeing fit to grab $595 for the popular Tangerine Scream. Kona Blue is also a no charge choice if one prefers to look like Barney the Dinosaur, while the gratis Magnetic and Shadow Black paint options will allow drivers to melt into traffic like butter on toast.

The ST uses a MacPherson gas-charged strut with coil springs and reverse-L lower control arms, all of which are designed to reduce torque steer. This was heady stuff a few years ago, and for it to show up on a $22,800 hatchback that’s able to lap VIR within shouting distance of an EcoBoost Mustang is nothing short of remarkable. Natty 18-inch rims look good too.

Those 18s are shod with Goodyear Eagle F1 summer tires as standard equipment. Mind-bendingly, Ford will happily charge shoppers $30 for the opportunity of downgrading to Pirelli all-seasons. This is reportedly in response to the carping of rust belt owners who didn’t like shelling out a grand for winter rubber so they could drive their STs when the snow flies. Here’s a nickel’s worth of free advice: stick with the sticky F1s and charge a set of Nokian Hakkapeliitta’s to your VISA. Year round fun, guaranteed.

Ford’s Sync 3 is a big improvement over the late and unlamented MyFordTouch, but it doesn’t make an appearance unless one selects the $2,995 Equipment Group 401A. Fuhgeddaboudit. The base tunes are more than adequate, include handsfree capability, and mercifully no longer make the dashboard look like a relief map of a Klingon’s forehead.

Allow me an aside here: why does Ford insist on using equipment group names which are better suited to a fax machine? The jaded amongst you will say I am merely worshipping at the altar of captive marketing, but I do appreciate creativity on a vehicle option sheet. The opportunity to order a Sun & Sound package far outstrips the cold and sanitized experience of checking the box for Equipment Group 401A. To wit:

“Cool! A Focus ST! Did you get the Recaros?”

“Yes. I opted to choose Equipment Group 401A. It is a satisfactory package.”

“ … ”

But I digress. As it sits, with no extra options, the Focus ST makes a great case for itself to be included in this series. Of course, the ST’s big brother, the mighty but delivery-plagued RS, gets all the press and recognition. In many circles — sports, politics, automotive journalism — big brothers often do. With the ST, though, one will enjoy 0-60 blasts in the neighborhood of six seconds while avoiding the wallet-hoovering price tag of the RS.

Not every vehicle at the instant ramen end of its price spectrum has aced it. The ones which have? They help make our automotive landscape a lot better. Naturally, feel free to roast our selection and let us know if there are other models you’d like included in this series.

The model above is shown with American options and is priced in Freedom Dollars. As of this writing, the listed price of $22,800 includes a $2500 lease incentive. More incentives may exist. Do your research and bargain hard.