In Canada, the Focus ST will come with standard features such as HID headlamps, full leather heated seats, LED signature lighting, rear armrest, and heated outside mirrors for an MSRP of $29,999. Available as extras are: a Tech Package for $1000 that includes an upgrade Sony stereo system, MyFord Touch with 8-inch screen, and dual-zone climate control. Voice activated navigation can be added for an additional $700 and the only colour that is an extra charge is Tangerine Scream for an additional $300.
When you first step into the Focus ST and situate yourself in the Recaro driver’s seat you realize this is something special. I was giddy like a schoolgirl as I jumped in, started her up, and revved the engine for the first time—I knew this was going to be one fun jaunt.
  2013 Ford Focus ST. Click image to enlarge |
Some enthusiasts will scream as the Focus ST does not offer a traditional limited slip differential (LSD) but instead incorporates a torque vector control system that utilizes braking to direct power and reduce understeer. This system works wonders on the street, but I did not get a chance to test the system on track where I suspect it may overheat the brakes if it is overused. Enthusiasts will be happy to note that ESC can be switched off completely, resulting in the Focus ST in its purest form, giving full control of the chassis to the driver, although torque vectoring does stay enabled.
Out on everyday streets, the Focus ST delivers that fun-to-drive feeling one looks for in a sport compact vehicle. With a taut suspension that does not beat you up, this Focus feels like it was carved from one solid piece. The thick, leather-covered steering wheel and perfect driving position create a sense of “oneness” with the car.
The clutch does feel a little on the rubbery side and I would pick Honda’s six-speed transmission from the Civic Si over the shifter in the ST, but despite it not being the best it is still very satisfying underfoot.
Acceleration in first and second gear is violent and torque steer is a large factor here. Ford claims a 0–100 km/h run takes approximately 6.5 seconds—the limiting factor here is getting the power to the ground. Once underway the ST accelerates smoothly and with authority from pretty much any gear at any time.
But it isn’t really about the power and acceleration in the ST, it is about carving corners and the ST feels like it would be at home on the racetrack. It feels light and nimble, yet solid and stable and the chassis is tuned with high performance driving in mind. The Focus ST feels like it wants to go fast and slide through corners on a whim and this makes it one of the most fun First Drives I have done in a long while.
The 2013 Ford Focus ST should be available at your local Ford dealer late July or early August.
