Ford Focus ST-Line X Edition Review

The enhanced Ford Focus now features a fuel efficient EcoBoost Hybrid electrified powertrain.

Sophisticated 48-volt mild hybrid technology enables the new Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid to deliver 155 PS of power alongside 122 g/km CO₂ emissions.

Premium

In addition to the new electrified powertrain option, the Focus delivers a more premium experience behind the wheel with a new “true colour” 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster. The car also continues to be offered in stylish Focus Titanium, sporty Focus ST-Line and luxurious Focus Vignale specifications. The EcoBoost Hybrid powertrains are available across the range.

Also available in 125 PS power output, Focus EcoBoost Hybrid models replace the 1.0‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine’s standard alternator with a belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG). This enables recovery of energy usually lost during braking and coasting to charge a 48-volt lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack.

Family Car

Locating the 48-volt battery beneath the front passenger seat has enabled the mild hybrid powertrain to be integrated with no loss of cargo or passenger space – making it a perfect family car. The BISG also acts as a motor, integrating with the engine and using the stored energy to provide torque assistance during normal driving and acceleration, as well as running the vehicle’s electrical ancillaries. The tech also has enabled Ford to lower the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine’s compression ratio and add a larger turbocharger for more power.

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Impressive

The performance is more than adequate, with the ST-Line X Edition we tested capable of 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds. Its top speed is even more impressive at 131mph. What’s more, using the Sport option offered by the Focus’ Selectable Drive Modes, you can adjust the characteristics of the throttle pedal, steering and stability control to deliver an even more engaging drive.

New technologies, including the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster we mentioned earlier, make the latest Focus easier to drive than ever. The fully configurable LCD cluster generates detailed, high definition, more intuitive images and icons, making them brighter, less tiring on the eyes and easier to read. This is great for bleary-eyed early morning school runs.

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The Ford Focus also includes a wireless charging pad, SYNC 3 with navigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Furthermore, the ST-Line grade comes with Dual Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry. Styling enhancements include a now standard larger functional roof-spoiler for the £27,160 Focus ST-Line X model.

All this makes the model sporty and stylish as well as efficient; so don’t worry, you won’t look like “embarrassing dad” when you’re on “dad taxi” duty.