2013 FORD FOCUS ST

• Tech specs:
• Model : 2013 Ford Focus
• Trim : ST
• EPA fuel economy : 23 mpg city/32 mpg highway
• Power train : Turbocharged direct-injection 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission
• Observed fuel economy : 23.1 mpg
• Bluetooth phone support : Standard with contact list integration
• Navigation : Optional flash-memory-based with traffic integration
• Digital audio sources : Smartphone apps, onboard hard drive, iPod/iPhone, USB drive, Bluetooth streaming, auxiliary input, satellite radio, HD Radio
• Audio system : Sony 10-speaker 355-watt system
• Base price : $23,700
• Price as tested : $28,170

States call driving a privilege. Some people consider it a task. With the 2013 Ford Focus ST, it becomes a joy. There are very few cars today that so reward the active, engaged driver. At the same time, the Focus ST would be practical as a daily driver. As a hatchback, it provides versatile interior space that can handle five passengers and cargo. Fuel economy, while down substantially from other Focus variants, is still good enough that each fill-up should not empty your bank account.

For the average American buyer, the Focus ST has a couple of strikes against it. It only comes with a six-speed manual transmission. At last count, only 6 percent of new cars sold had manuals in the U.S. And we apparently prefer sedans over hatchbacks, even in the compact segment. In the tradition of the hot hatchback, a type of car developed by European and Japanese gearheads who generally only had access to economical front-wheel-drive cars as platforms for tuning exploits, the Focus ST sends almost too much power to its front wheels: 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque


Ford Focus ST good:- The 2013 Ford Focus ST delivers responsive handling and plenty of power from its efficient four-cylinder engine. Voice command handles destination input, music selection, phone calls, and app integration.

Ford Focus ST bad:- The optional MyFord Touch system has a clunky interface, especially when it comes to navigation. The Recaro seats can be a little much for everyday use.