In 2021, Ford announced the arrival of the Fiesta ST Edition. A special limited production version born out of some markets’ love (such as Britain) for the small hot hatch. In the meantime, Ford has announced the end of the compact B and C segment. To make it easier to swallow that bitter pill, Ford gives its Focus ST another Track Pack. Another one to unlearn?
Fordlift
To kick in an open door: the Ford Focus ST Track Pack is based on… the new Ford Focus ST. We say ‘new’, because the C-segmenter recently received a facelift. You can safely call it discreet: the new light signature surrounds the entire light block, the rear lights have been changed and the new, larger radiator grille now focuses on the Ford logo.
To complete the picture, this Track Pack shares the interior with the other Focus ST models. For example, the renewed dashboard is dominated by the 13.2-inch SYNC4 infotainment system. This now also controls the climate control. Finally, the sports seats with integrated headrests are a nice addition, especially because of the extra seating comfort and the lateral support they offer.
Black on grey/green/red/white
In addition, the Track Pack is distinguished by a body color in Mean Green, Agate Black, Fantastic Red, Magnetic or Frozen White and black elements such as the roof, rear wing and mirror caps. Even the rims get this color but are anything but new: they were already in the Ford accessories catalog and, by the way, reduce the rim weight by 10 percent.
In terms of performance, there is Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber developed specifically for Ford. Just behind it are Brembo brakes fitted with four-piston red calipers. Shall we tell you a secret? They actually come straight from the Mustang Mach-E. But you don’t get that from us…
Modified suspension
Is it only aesthetic changes? Of course not: fortunately, Ford’s Belgian development team in Lommel was able to have its say. And that saying was about the suspension. As with the small Fiesta ST, the Focus ST’s struts are reinforced with shock absorbers from KW Automotive. They are also fully adjustable (12 positions for compression, 16 for extension).
It does not stop there for Ford, because modified dampers also require different springs. They are shorter and 50 percent stiffer, and lower the hot hatch by 10 millimeters (although you can eventually go up to 15 millimeters with a key). That key is in a handy box, together with the adapter to adjust the shock absorbers and a practical guide with four ‘presets’.
Insatiable hunger
Sticky rubber, big brakes and a completely different suspension, that’s fat for every track enthusiast, isn’t it? Yes, but that’s not all. Ford has not only developed this hot hatch for billiard surface asphalt.
The addition of the dampers, regardless of their setting, adds a surprising amount of comfort to the handling of the Focus, which was never really known for it. Here you feel that a little more control has been added and that it always remains unflappable. In this way, the Pirelli rubber always remains in contact with the asphalt, which gives this Focus ST the perfect dose of grip.
The Ford has always been one of the most enjoyable hot hatches, and this Track Pack turns the volume up to eleven. As a result, the ST transforms into a beast with insatiable hunger, bend after bend and straight line after straight line. You already figured it out: we are fans.
Conclusion
The Track Pack is a hit for Ford. Not only is the Focus ST one of the most exhilarating hot hatches on the market, but the Track Pack also perfects the chassis, handling and comfort. And all that for the modest sum of 3,675 euros. At least, that is the additional price on top of a Focus ST …
Motor
2.3 turbo petrol, straight-four
transmission
6-speed, manual
Price test car
€ 48 105.00
Price basic model
€ 44 430.00
Average test consumption
7.80 L/100km
