Ford has revealed the all-new Ford Performance Focus ST, that will be available for Aussies in 2020. The new performance Focus is based on the new generation hatch that I covered for you late last year. A 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine will drop-in as opposed to the three-cylinder unit in the standard model. 

Highlights include outputs of 206kW/420Nm and new high-performance Michelin tyres. There’s new technology that should make for a thrilling ride via an electronic limited slip differential and adaptive suspension damping. Obviously going by the pictures there are many visual enhancements as well, such as red brake calipers, side skirts and a rear spoiler to name a few.

Purists will love the standard six-speed manual, with rev-matching if you so desire, plus the body hugging Recaro seats. Or if you prefer an automatic, then for the first time a slick seven-speed is also on offer with paddle shifters. 

The Australian Ford Focus will be sourced from Germany. Ford Boss Kay Hart said, “Local enthusiasts have made it clear that there’s a desire for highly engaging performance hatches,” 

“The all-new Focus ST builds on a tradition of legendary hot hatches and will deliver an exhilarating driving experience as the latest model from Ford Performance”.

There’s an optional Performance Pack for manual models that ramps up things courtesy of  launch control, shift lights, rev-matching and an exclusive ‘Track’ Driving Mode. For further added flare the Ford Performance Blue and Orange paint choices are unlocked for the ST. 

The Ford Performance Focus ST is expected locally in early 2020, pricing is yet to be announced.