203kW/420Nm Mk4 Ford Focus ST launches in the UK

The fourth-generation Ford Focus ST will hit the UK market this weekend, packing a 2.3-litre EcoBoost twin-scroll turbocharged mill that churns out 203kW and 420Nm of torque.

Unlike the previous three generations, the Mk4 Focus ST will be available with a new seven-speed automatic for the first time along with a six-speed manual, both driving the front wheels.

A diesel option is also offered in the UK featuring a 2.0-litre EcoBlue variable geometry turbo engine that makes 138kW at 3,500rpm and 400Nm between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm. It also sends power to the front wheels but is the only one to get Torque Vectoring Control.

Based on the latest Ford Focus, the ST gets adaptive LED headlights, LED taillights, ST-specific body kit and 19-inch alloy wheels. Its colour palette includes the bright Orange Fury paint you see here, as well as Ford Performance Blue, Frozen White, Magnetic (grey), Race Red, Ruby Red Shadow Black and the Magnetite Matte finish.

The hot hatch also sits 10mm closer to the ground compare to the regular Focus and features a selectable drive mode (Slippery/Wet, Normal and Sport) along with an anti-lag feature, which enables boost pressure to build faster on demand for an ‘immediate’ power delivery in Sport mode.

The petrol ST also gets an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) for sharper response, while its electric power steering has been revised. There’s also a Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) which monitors the suspension, body, steering and braking inputs every two milliseconds and tailors the damping response accordingly.

Customers in the UK can also opt for the Performance Pack which adds a Track mode, launch control and auto rev-matching for the manual transmission, and steering-mounted paddle shifter with Adaptive Shift Scheduling for automatic variants.

Inside, the ST can be differentiated from the regular hatch with its flat-bottomed steering wheel, Recaro seats with partial leather and Miko Dinamica materials, ST-embossed aluminium gear knob and scuff plates and alloy pedals.

Like high-spec versions of the regular Focus, the Focus ST gets Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Speed Sign Recognition, Lane Centering, Active Park Assist 2 (auto only) and head-up display

It also comes with a segment-first Evasive Steering Assist, which helps drivers steer around stationary or slow-moving vehicles to avoid a potential collision.

The 2019 Ford Focus ST is scheduled for an Australian debut later this year.