In this Article we talk about 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition | PH Review: A Final Send-Off for an Iconic Hatchbac. The 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition is making waves in the automotive world, but not just for its performance and specs—it’s the end of an era. Ford is moving toward an electric future, and the Focus ST Edition is among the last gas-powered hatchbacks we’ll see from the company. Packed with performance upgrades and a nostalgic nod to the glory days of hot hatches, this car delivers both a thrilling drive and a bittersweet goodbye. In this article, we’ll dive into the details that make the 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition a standout, from its driving dynamics to its place in automotive history.
What’s New in the 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition?
The 2024 Focus ST Edition brings a mix of classic and cutting-edge features. At its heart is the same 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that Ford enthusiasts have come to love. But there’s a lot more to this final edition than just raw power. Ford Performance collaborated with KW Automotive to refine the suspension, adding two-way adjustable coilovers that set this version apart from its predecessors. These coilovers lower the car by 10mm (with an additional 20mm of adjustability), giving it a more aggressive stance and better handling.
An Ode to the Manual Transmission
In a world increasingly dominated by automatic transmissions and paddle shifters, the 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition proudly holds onto its 6-speed manual gearbox. For purists, this is a breath of fresh air. The manual transmission adds an extra layer of driver involvement, making the ST Edition a car for those who appreciate the art of driving. As the world shifts to electric vehicles and automated driving systems, the manual gearbox in the ST Edition feels like a defiant stand against the tide.
Track-Ready Performance
The real star of the show is the Track Pack, which transforms the Focus ST Edition from a fast road car into a track day weapon. The addition of 19-inch flow-form alloys and beefy Brembo brakes completes the package, giving drivers confidence whether they’re attacking corners or cruising along the highway.
Turbocharged Power and Precision
The 2.3-liter turbocharged engine delivers 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of grunt for enthusiastic driving. The engine’s power band is broad, with a strong mid-range that makes it easy to exploit the car’s capabilities. Whether you’re accelerating out of a tight bend or blasting down a straight, the Focus ST Edition feels eager and alive.
Mastering the Corners
The ST Edition’s suspension is where it really shines. With 12 compression and 16 rebound settings, drivers can fine-tune the ride to their exact preferences. Out on the road, the coilovers deliver a composed ride that manages to balance comfort with razor-sharp handling. While the suspension is firmer than on the standard ST, it’s not so stiff that it becomes uncomfortable for daily driving.
Is the 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition Still Relevant?
As Ford prepares to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles, the question on many enthusiasts’ minds is whether the Focus ST Edition still has a place in today’s market. The answer is a resounding yes. While electric vehicles may be the future, there’s still something to be said for the visceral thrill of driving a well-engineered gas-powered car.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
The 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition faces stiff competition from the likes of the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf GTI. The Civic Type R may have the edge in terms of outright performance, but it also comes with a steeper price tag. The Golf GTI, meanwhile, offers a more understated driving experience, but it can’t match the ST Edition’s raw excitement on the road.
2024 Ford Focus ST Edition
While the Focus ST Edition’s performance is a highlight, its design has been met with mixed reactions. The Azura Blue paint job and 19-inch wheels give the car an imposing presence, but some critics argue that the overall design feels a bit dated compared to newer models on the market.
A Nod to the Past
The lowered stance and subtle exterior upgrades give the ST Edition a more aggressive look than the standard model, but it’s clear that this car is more about driving enjoyment than flashy aesthetics. In many ways, the understated design is a reflection of what the Focus ST Edition is all about: substance over style.
Driving Experience
Getting behind the wheel of the 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition is an experience that engages all the senses. From the moment you start the engine, you’re greeted with a throaty growl that hints at the performance waiting to be unleashed.
Engaging Driving Dynamics
The manual gearbox, coilover suspension, and responsive steering all work together to create a car that feels alive in your hands. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving through twisty backroads, the Focus ST Edition delivers a driving experience that’s hard to match.
2024 Ford Focus ST Edition | PH Review: A Final Send-Off for an Iconic Hatchback
The 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition is not just another car—it’s a farewell to an era. With Ford shifting its focus to electric vehicles, this might be the last time we see a Focus ST in its current form. For fans of hot hatches, the ST Edition is a fitting send-off, combining modern technology with old-school driving thrills.
The 2024 Ford Focus ST Edition is more than just a car—it’s a tribute to an era of driving that’s quickly disappearing. With its manual gearbox, turbocharged engine, and track-ready suspension, it delivers the kind of driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare. If you’re a fan of hot hatches, the 2024 Focus ST Edition is one of the last greats, and it’s a car you won’t want to miss out on.
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FAQs
Will this be the last gas-powered Focus ST?
Yes, Ford is shifting towards electric vehicles, and the 2024 Focus ST Edition is likely one of the last gas-powered hot hatches from the brand.
How does the 2024 Focus ST Edition handle on the track?
With its Track Pack and adjustable coilovers, the Focus ST Edition is more than capable on the track, offering precise handling and plenty of grip.
Can the 2024 Focus ST Edition be used as a daily driver?
Despite its track-focused upgrades, the 2024 Focus ST Edition is comfortable enough for daily use, especially with its adjustable suspension settings.