2014 Ford Focus ST Review and Road Test

Join me as I check out Ford's 2014 Focus ST hot hatch. We'll talk about the Focus, the 2013 Volkswagen GTI and the rumoured Mazdaspeed3.
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[@MrFullback100]

One of the best car reviews I've seen on KZbin touching on everything including brake feels, noise level, and prices. Thumbs up!

[@charlesjames1442]

Bought mine new in November’13. Still living the dream.

[@dielog2211]

how's the car for this 2024 ? any issues? also tips?

[@charlesjames1442]

@@dielog2211 : Still using the original clutch with 111K. I added a Pro Alloy intercooler, Mountune intake and catback exhaust, a 91 octane tune, Ford track springs (just 1/2 inch drop), a Quaife LSD and Powerstop Z-23 front rotors and pads (highly recommend) and a few other little trinkets. 263 hp. at the wheel with 326 ftlbs of torque. All I’ve done is change fluids frequently, two batteries, tires and the front brakes. Everything works like it came from the factory.

[@dielog2211]

@@charlesjames1442 sounds so reliable to me enough to actually get one..three more days i would actually get to test drive a used focus st 2014 but i wonder what should i looking for before buy it

[@charlesjames1442]

@@dielog2211: Abuse destroys all cars. Leaks, rattles, feels like it’s coming apart. Looks uncared for in and out. These cars are getting elderly and rough treatment, lack of maintenance will show. A garaged car is a plus.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I own this car and it's a blast to drive. Thanks for the review!

[@mss627]

Other reviewers (especially dealers) should take not on how this guy does reviews. When you're looking to buy a car, this is the kind of stuff you want to know. Excellent work Alex.

[@bboogaar]

Our 2014 Tangerine Scream (with the racing stripes) Focus ST is slightly different. The driver's seat is powered and both front seats are heated which is very nice up here in the Great White North. The steering wheel does not have the buttons at the 4 o'clock position. Those functions are contained in the buttons at the 3 o'clock position. And we have a full sized steel rim spare with a Continental? tire mounted on it in the back, not a donut spare. The Goodyear F1 mounted Y spokes are stored away for the winter with steel rimmed winter tires underneath the ST.

[@gene978]

Hey ALEX Happy NEW YEAR! I swear you have to be the MOST DETAILED REVIEWER on KZbin. You don't miss a thing! Thank You!

[@kc5077]

The rear seats do fold flat but you have to remove the head rests and flip up the seat bottom first.

[@chris1451]

Just a truth in advertising thing here. That is NOT a 2014 ST. It is a early build 2013 evidenced by the silver clading on the intake piping. Early builds had this. Later builds in late 2012 eliminated the clading because they were coming off of customer cars. Also the steering wheel has symetrical buttons on it. In 2014 they elimiated the right hand lower buttons from the wheel and incorporated those functions on other buttons. I have 2 2013 ST's one built in Feb 2013 and one in April 2013 and neither has the silver intake clading

[@AndrewTewes]

The back seats do fold flat!!, you just have to remove the headrest and pull up on the bottom cushon first then fold the backs down!

[@4N2IN0JA]

Love the reviews! I'd love to see you get your hands on the CLA 250 Mercedes! I went to the dealer yesterday and that violet color captivated me! It's as sexy as the new Mazda 3 and 6

[@schmo7777]

Planning on getting one.

[@stanpowers600]

Another fine review. Look forward to your take on the 2015 VW GTI...Thanks Alex.

[@bustermv]

Great matter of fact review with loads of practical stuff that's good to know about this car when out driving like 95% of the owners.

[@Jasonweckard]

Great review, my interest in this guitar is growing.

[@brandonmarks6035]

Test driving one tomorrow hopefully will be no problems 40 k miles 12 grand

[@Sauce.714]

Did you end up picking it up? I'm looking at a '14 ST too with 51k miles for $14k. Pretty sure it could be negotiated down a bit tho

[@brandonmarks6035]

@@Sauce.714 yes have had it for like 4 weeks I've drove over 5-6 k miles 😂👍

[@RealtimeReviews613]

Alex you need better hd cameras and driving shots. Your channel is amazing and that would just set your channel on fire!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I am slowly working myself in that direction. 2013 brought one new Canon CX20 camera and 2014 will bring a second. I haven't quite decided if I should try a Black Magic or not. Next comes a more regimented approach to shooting, verifying, then re-shooting footage.

[@buckjohnson]

Been waiting for your review on this one. Thanks!

[@Anthony-df4bs]

252 horse power*

[@kylebaker8619]

the side air vents do close, if you move the lever all the way down the vent will lock into a closed position

[@kc5077]

Nice review, how does the Focus ST compare to the Fiesta ST? It seems some of it best competition is from its little brother.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Interesting question. I have not had a chance to drive the Fiesta ST yet but I can say that the Fiesta's interior is notably more cramped and it does feel cheaper than the Focus. Arm rests are smaller, there is more hard plastic and the LCD infotainment system is a 6.5 inch version of the Focus' 8 inch system. Performance is also scaled down but the Fiesta is still fun in a small package.

[@bendungee1669]

Hi Alex. I just want to let you know about the hood and bumper spacing is adjustable to narrow the tolerance. It isn't to for cooling. My 2013 Ford Focus ST is exactly the same as the 2014 model except for the options of on the wheels, brake and pin strips. The car has 252 HP and 270 TQ at 2500 RPM not 247 HP and 266 TQ at 1500 RPM.

[@bigjets]

Funny you should mention the grill...its actually a major hurdle to this car for me. The rest of the car is attractive among other hatch styles. Speaking of hatches, the Scion tC latchback design is beautiful and I wish it was incorporated into many other cars today. I know of none. Its a design that was used alot in the 80s but it would be so useful to me now. Im glad to have a good manual trans option to consider in this Focus. Thanks for your reviews!

[@505enthusiast4]

I like the refreshed look better. I test drove a 2017 Alex is right. Its alot of fun

[@CMUBruin]

Love the Ray Bradbury reference!

[@steve1201988]

I had a gti they take mods very well and fun but I like the more sporty feel of the St and it's more car for same money

[@lonewolf227]

im not sure if this was brought up before but almost all focus back seats fold up or come out quite easily and the back folds down just an fyi if no one knew ( 2003 focus back seats have a bar attached to it and fold up hugging the front seats 2009 focus come out and can be placed in the same spot or taken out for more room if needed again just an fyi) i could be wrong on this for the ST but assuming its been in a focus back in 2003 and again in the 09 .. only one can assume they would keep that feature

[@trailgnomeadventures5691]

Alex I have read that the GTI is underrated from the factory and it may be making around 230hp. Have you come across such claims?

[@alexdykes]

There are always claims, however the GTI is without a doubt slower than the Focus ST in every comparison I have seen.

[@505enthusiast4]

Trailgnome adventures you are correct. The gti states wheel horsepower and they tend to underate. For states crank horsepower. Really they are neck and neck zero to sixty. Both great hot hatches I'm still torn between which one to get. I test drove a 2017 st and the turn in is amazing.

[@MetaFoxx278]

Have you tried out the Fiesta ST yet? I've driven both the Focus ST and Fiesta ST, and I have to say I like the Fiesta ST a lot better than it's Focus counterpart. Despite the smaller engine and lighter profile, the Fiesta ST is a bit better experience. It handles better than the Focus ST due to its lighter profile in my opinion. If you haven't tried it yet, you should. I think you might like it better.

[@Lucky8s]

***** I believe the Fiesta has a bit more turbo lag while the Focus has slightly more torque steer.

[@buildmorefarms1007]

I drove both and feel the Focus is superior.

[@505enthusiast4]

Alpheus Robinson II I'm sure the fiesta st is a blast to so light weight

[@bongodave13]

I drove both and chose the Fiesta. Different strokes...

[@1guyin10]

I really like the Focus ST. It seems really well done to me.

[@jaymanxxxx]

hood gap is for the bug deflector clips. saving paint.

[@Kaijiro____93]

You didn't flip the back seats 'bottom' and the back fully to showcase how much space there is. Unless the design is alot different to Focus Trend

[@simonbradley5677]

Totally right. Seat flips up to let the backrest lie close to flat. Current owner, 2013 ST3

[@matthewsimmons2008]

Sounds good I like the deep sound of the exhaust.

[@carlwarmington5325]

Why no mention of the ST's three modes of ESP to choose from? These can be selected according to weather and road conditions or simply to match the driver’s desire for help from additional driving aids. In the first instance the ESP works much the same way as the innovative system found in the base model Focus, although for the ST it is tuned to be non-intrusive to the driver. This standard mode supports the driver on all surfaces, whether dry, wet or snowy, giving them the confidence to drive safely no matter what the weather. The driver can opt to select the second mode, called reduced or wide-slip mode, in which the traction control is turned off. Traction is handled by the driver here, while the ESP is programmed to intrude only as absolutely necessary. Of course, the ESP system can also be switched off completely resulting in the Focus ST in its purest form, giving full control of the sublime chassis to the driver when is a position to exploit it, such as on a race track. Only the sub-features such as the Enhanced Dynamic Cornering Control (EDCC) remain active

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It was tossed out in editing. At 19 minutes things were getting a hair long as it was.

[@buildmorefarms1007]

This car is plenty quick.

[@scottkyle7055]

You can say "amusing" too often. But a pretty thorough review.

[@Xenios9]

do you have a video on the fiesta st?

[@pierceyu4546]

love the new aston martin grill on the front

[@kiranbalegar]

Alex on Autos Whats your take on 2015 ST v/s 2016 WRX? Not able to decide between these 2 cars. Thanks

[@Lucky8s]

Kiran Balegar Both cars are pretty amazing. Fuel economy is in favor of the ST. Drive train is in favor of the STi due to AWD I find the ST a bit more stylish (Personal taste) ST technology is way ahead of Subaru technology (You can wait for Sync 3 in the 2016 model year, way faster performance over MFT) ST has a larger trunk due to it being a hatchback. I've never been in either car so I'm unable to give my opinion on driving dynamics between the two. I'd definitely wait till 2016 to buy the ST, I really want Sync 3 instead of My Ford Touch.

[@chrismcclain8322]

F

[@505enthusiast4]

I test drove a 2017 st and it handles amazing...oh that turn in! I havent driven a wrx but my brother has one and loved it. I'm sure you can't go wrong with either one. I would think the st interior is more refined

[@ScoutBobrman862]

The Ford-Focus St I drove a few hours ago, looked WWAAYYYY better than this 2014 model. Even the steering wheel control buttons looks very remedial than the one I saw. Also, the front and back rear bumper looked nothing like this!! This guy probably received one of the very first models for him to review. I think he reviewed the 2013 model!!

[@stephenhendricks6790]

Alex, excellent review as always. I looked carefully at the ST before purchasing my MK6 GTI last spring and was impressed but not swayed enough to go for it for several reasons. A bit too boy racer for me. Of course, the vehicle is available in colors other than "tangerine scream" that Ford has made available to virtually all journalists but even discounting that I decided that five years down the road the GTI would retain its classic looks while the ST would look like a five year old car. Of course, some may say the GTI already looks like a five year old car, so YMMV. It's true that even though VW traditionally underrates its engines, the ST has more oomph in both HP and torque than the GTI. That gap disappears, however, with stage 1 tuning of the GTI. Furthermore, for real world city driving I much preferred the GTI's dimensions and much smaller turning radius to the ST. Overall, I just found the GTI a more balanced package in terms of power and handling. On a more practical (daily driver) level there were a couple of deal breakers for me in the ST. As you note, the back seat of the ST while not an afterthought is not nearly as accommodating as the GTI. The GTI's enormous interior (for the class) as well as its more upscale appointments were a strong selling point for a daily driver. It's true that the ST has some features the GTI lacks but the overall fit/finish is far better. Finally, in my case, I had to have an AT so my wife could drive in Seattle rush hour traffic. The wonderful dual clutch transmission in the GTI enables me to drive it like a manual while my wife can use it in place of our gas guzzling CUV. I can certainly understand why Ford limited the ST to a manual transmission choice but even after owning MT vehicles for 50 years, I find it don't miss it in the least. All in all, I think Ford did a great job with the ST and in several ways it outpoints the MKVI GTI (though not for me). I don't think that will be true with the MKVII when it arrives in the US later this year but the fact that there is significant competition in this segment is heartening.

[@riceoobxg]

Alex, Full Grain is more expensive and more durable than Split Grain. What makes Split Grain better?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I wouldn't say better, just softer. Full grain will wear considerably better than split grain but softer leather has a better feel.

[@carlwarmington5325]

One other point, you mention the rear seats do not fold flat, and I noticed you did not pull the seat cushions up to the forward position, prior to lowering the seat back. Does the North American Focus ST not offer this function or did you over look that in your time with the ST? Example media.ed.edmunds-media.com/ford/focus-st/2013/lt/2013_ford_focus-st_crg_lt_12813_600.jpg

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for the clarification, I couldn't seem to find any way to do that. Hopefully someone with a Focus ST can chime in on this.

[@teddyknapp3993]

Good review man. I got a lot of good info out of this. Thanks

[@ellomirza]

Who is this mystery 6'5" passenger?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It is a co-worker that is kind enough to be used as a measurement device.

[@carlwarmington5325]

Alex on Autos Why the need to pursue the negative angle of rear seat space? If you feel the need for that then why not the opposite angle of having a 5'10" passenger? :-)

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Carl Warmington It's really just response to reader and viewer requests. Folks wanted to know how well people can fit behind taller folks up front so that's what I give them.

[@zxbc1]

Alex on Autos Your way of measuring the back seat leg room is very appreciated since it gives people a better idea of what the worst case would be. Too many other reviewers use the "average" case, but it almost never reveals any problem. Keep up the good work!

[@10thFTW]

I was hoping for an ST review not a comparison vs GTI.

[@eddie123214]

With a tune cold air and down pipe it’s a different animal

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

Alex, it's 252hp w/270 ft lbs tq.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You're right, Ford revised the power numbers after the ST was launched. They initially reported it as 247/266 and later changed it to 252/270 after further testing.

[@cbtomsd]

91 Octane is just fine....

[@kicksreason]

Another great review sir, thank you.

[@FoodyTunes]

That road is scary, what's with all the cliff right after the edge of the road!

[@QuantayPeoples]

funny how he always lays in the trunk of the car he reviews always the highlight of every video haha

[@QQPP19]

Hey Alex are you able to get a review on the new 2014 Honda civic? I'm wondering if they increased the rear leg room. Thanks!

[@alexdykes]

No additional room in the rear according to the numbers. 2014 is misty limited to the new CTV, new radios and a new interior for the coupe. (The coupe didn't get the same refresh as the sedan did in 2013.)

[@QQPP19]

I see. Thanks for the info!

[@taumax]

Can you confirm with Ford whether or not the gap between the hood and the front fascia is actually a vent, or just a bad/wide manufacturing tolerance?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I believe it is a design element because they all seem to have it. I have asked and will post if Ford replies.

[@bendungee1669]

It's not a vent and the gap can be adjusted to the same tolerance as the rest of the car. I have adjusted my ST when I got it. There are two bumpers springs under the hood that are easy to adjust.

[@johnnyr25]

What would be your chances of getting a GT-R, Alex?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Nissan does lend them I am told however they do not have any in their fleets near me so I would have to fly somewhere at my own expense to get in one. I don't think it would be worth it at this time. I have driven one and it is just as insane as everyone says.

[@jeffmaccarter4627]

Enjoyed the review. Thank you.

[@thooke222]

Great review thanks

[@michaelcarlson9489]

I'm curious why the mini cooper s is usually left out of comparisons with cars like the Focus ST, VW GTI, and Fiat 500. As far as fun factor, the cooper at least matches or beats most hot hatches. It's not the fastest or quickest hatchback, but it's got a ton of character, while still being more refined than the Fiat 500 in my opinion.

[@chris1451]

um... not even in the same class. Not to mention the most unreliable car in America.

[@chris14091975]

i see it exactly the way you do

[@ahmaddallah7926]

Turbo delay or lag this is weird I like focus and planning to buy one when 2015 come but thus turbo issue making me not comfortable I don't want get turbo charged ride and turbo Is sick means losing hp

[@Lucky8s]

AHMAD DALLAH The Focus ST doesn't have turbo lag.

[@maaanuel87]

As far as I am concerned the gap in the front has been fixed

[@PremierAutoMan86]

Why am I seeing the Lexus spindle grill in the black eggcrate grill? Notice it Alex?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I suppose I do see a bit, but the diagonal theme seems to be somewhat common to try and breakup an otherwise plain rump.

[@rocksjoshua]

Definintly a cool car. Me and my bro hit 140mph in it. Pretty fast!

[@mercury64]

Love the front end, but a license plate ruins it IMO

[@collinholbrook4074]

lol I think that on just about every single sports or sporty car I see only some cars can pull off the license plate on the front

[@cbtomsd]

Good review, But to much talk of the GTI.......From my experience, VW's always tend to be a little underpowered......With a few exceptions....

[@777Talon]

isn't the HP 252 and Torque 270??

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes it is. Ford released two sets of numbers, the numbers in this video and then an updated set. I am told that the lower numbers are when run on 87 octane and 252 is when you are running on Premium. Ford has since updated most of their on-line materials but you can still find the lower number on Ford's original press releases.

[@777Talon]

Alex on Autos oh okay that seems correct because octane does equal performance, but personally I would never run a turbo car on regular, Thank You

[@mravocadoman2904]

The way he practically rips the cover off 1:23 😂😂😂

[@davehowe2103]

Helpful review . My , you can talk . Drop the amused and amusing comments . They don't come across very well , for you . Still a very good job . Thanks

[@TherymasterWidnes]

Great car

[@cuzthatshoweyroll]

So how reliable is this car and how much will maintenance cost?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Overall Ford scores well and domestic repair costs are fairly low. So it should cost less to own than a GTI for instance.

[@LMacNeill]

The rear seats WILL fold flat. You have to flip the seat-bottoms up and forward, then remove the headrests from the seat-backs and the seat-backs will then fold flat. Yes it's a pain in the @$$, but it can be done.

[@darksideofmind91]

Wich is the road you're driving in?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It is Alma Bridge Road in Los Gatos, CA

[@chefjefe68]

Alex on Autos Love your reviews, Alex, but, alas, every time I watch them I get misty for all those wonderful roads hiding in hills around the Bay Area. Color me envious now in my 7th year in flat SE Texas.

[@fakriaabdali3535]

Bro your voice have intake sistem???

[@woodsy555]

front end looks a bit pissed off

[@DrFumesta]

6'5" is not an average height so thats a bad demonstration of the back seats

[@talonsx494]

I, I, I...really dislike hard plastics everywhere!

[@p4horror]

This dude reminds me of Jared Fogle.

[@bruceowen1071]

It has 252 hp

[@RealtimeReviews613]

Like the civic si this car should be offered in a automatic. Not many people drive manuals anymore and honda and ford would get more sales

[@mountainhobo]

Hot hatch in automatic? Perish the thought. :)

[@kokopuffs5789]

I guess im one of those guys that doesn't like the front. It looks like a fish with an open mouth. But this car is way better than a civic si

[@collinholbrook4074]

I have heard people call the Focus ST an angry catfish lol personally I still really like the style of it

[@evanm8537]

Front grill ANGRY FACE! Love it :)

[@mindlessmistro]

The front end looks.. so sad... like a sad ..catfish

[@tommyodayiv9734]

Herd gti more than st.

Would u let us listen to that engine? ...or speak forever?

[@cbtomsd]

I listen to it everyday!

Good for you...Well we couldn't..

[@jnbalmer448]

It looks decent, but Immature. I would prefer a more aggressive styling rather than a smiley face.

[@roydied15]

It's a happy car! 'cause it puts a smile on your face every time you drive it :)

[@collinholbrook4074]

2015 St's look a bit more aggressive in the headlights and grill

[@regutito]

i dont like this review....

[@White03T4RV82WD]

The front of the car is awful. It really reminds me of a fish. The rest of the car isn't that great looking either, and I hate what ford is doing with their cars now. I loved my best friends 2010 Fusion but we got into an accident on Friday and I'm almost sure the car is totaled (airbags deployed) but thankfully everyone was fine.

[@sherifgaming]

Volkswagon ("VVVVVVVVagon"... NOT "w"agon. They are German cars, pronounciation counts).

[@THEFIFTHDIMENTION]

A BMW ? Lol nah

[@Amandyke]

SO many factual errors in this review. Spare tire is NOT a donut, it is a full size tire at 215/55/16. Door inserts are NOT soft touch plastic, they are FABRIC. Side vents DO CLOSE when you slide them all the way down. The suspension went under significant changes from the base focus with revised spring rates, steering knuckles, stabilizer bars (front and rear), control arms, bushings and rear stabilizer mounting points in addition to the revised dampers. AND SHUT UP ABOUT OTHER CARS IN REVIEWS. Hot damn you talk about the GTI nearly as much as the focus in this review! Thumbs down, will not watch again.

[@futmut1000]

the st may have more power but is ugly as fuck...i dont know how they can design such a bad looking car...i think it cant compete with th golf7 gti which is years ahead on every aspect...

[@sasori21153]

that gay accent is really annoying though

[@sanita474]

Trouble maker!!

[@Lucky8s]

joshua francis Your poor English is really annoying.

[@Ghostmanriding]

An excellent review.Thanks!