The Perfect All-Rounder? Ford Focus ST MK3.5 Review

In today's video I am driving the Mk3.5 Ford Focus ST. Having recently been unimpressed with a modified MK2, I now look to find if the recently facelifted ST has what it takes to be a great daily.
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#Ford #FocusST #Review
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[@TheMadTatter]

This one is INCREDIBLY rare! All of the weather seals on the bottom of the doors are still in place! 😂

[@ps36081]

My Mrs Focus 3 has issues with door seals and she has a normal Titanium Nav (1.6TD) My MK1 no issues with seals coming off.

[@TheMadTatter]

@@ps36081 they all do, it's a common thing on the MK3/3.5

[@eamoman651]

I bought mine 2nd hand 10'000 miles and both front doors had it😂. Bit of glue and 20'000 miles later still sticking strong... Love mine, can put a smile on my face daily..

[@lisachrister9990]

@@eamoman651 I have my weather seal on rear O/S tied to the door handle. Keep meaning to put back on but keep forgetting.

[@n0w3lly90]

Mine have started peeling on the front doors! Mildly annoying, but a bit of glue should sort it out (when I get round to it!)

[@andrewwallace1030]

Focus’s have always been known for their steering and handling. Happy to see they’ve continued

[@Mr.Marbles]

ford cologne knows their shit when it comes to handling. fiesta st and focus st/rs are just so much fun.

[@v4skunk739]

@@Mr.Marbles Honda Type-R are the king of fwd cars except the FN2 Type-R...

[@sonydominates]

It's such a shame they discontinued in the US

[@arronjohnstracey3280]

Even the c-max's drive insanely well considering the size.

[@jerkopatrik]

@@arronjohnstracey3280 we have a Transit Custom at the family's company. It's steering is legitimately direct and I kid you fucking not, it's a proper fun van to drive. I don't know how that's possible, but it is!

[@MartinArscott1]

I had one for a while, I had it remapped (the increased turbo boost was wicked) and have to say it was the most fun car I've driven to date by a long way, better than my current Golf R, and the infotainment system voice control was excellent! I'm hoping to get the fun back with a mk4 MX-5 which is on its way....

[@Racer-M]

After driving a 18' focus st3 for over 2 years, ive come to really appreciate this car and how well it performs. I have a heavy performance background. Grew up racing, my father and his father are Porsche mechanics, as well as myself, and have driven a ton of performance cars both brand new and old, from Ferrari to Ford. This isnt a car to scoff at, i love this car, and its performance rating is well above its price range.. as a road vehicle that performs similar to a track car but still all the comfortably of a well made hatchback, this little hatch has checked a ton of boxes that enthusiasts can get behind.

[@Godzukidan]

I love my 2016 ST1 I just turned 40,000 miles. It still puts a smile on my face every day. 😎👍

[@phillwaller]

Love my deep impact blue Focus ST. I was looking at Fiesta ST's but I had similar opinions on the "boy racer" view as there are so many kids locally with them. The Focus feels more powerful, a lot more grown up, abit more refined and has more room for the mrs and kids. It delivers in every aspect. Great review

[@robstaples6649]

Even as a Fiesta owner, I "get" the image thing, but we're not all the same, honest!!

[@lukewatts3284]

Ditto

[@juniorballs6025]

We most certainly are not!

[@neilbenton1152]

I had two fiesta st3s both stolen but not impressed with what he says ! Superb drivers cars ,

[@lukewatts3284]

@@neilbenton1152 I respect jay emms opinion but even he can't say that a mp215 Mk7 st isn't a great car 👍

[@rtorbs]

Same with BMW wankers.......I dont own any Oakley's for one

[@n0w3lly90]

I love my ST3, late 2017 model and I picked it up last year with a genuine 8000 miles on the clock. Fully loaded, Impact Blue colour, and just the right mix between 'sleeper' and performance looks, especially for a 40-something like me! I also thought the Mk3.5 was a lot better looking than the Mk4 (I seriously considered this), so opted for that and chose to save myself over £10k in the process. What I have done, though, was have an Mfactory helical limited slip diff fitted and, whilst that was going in, upgraded the transmission to have the Focus RS clutch and flywheel. Then, I have had PumaSpeed "breathe" a little on the car (upgraded air induction, intercooling, iridium plugs, stage 1 remap, etc. - nothing crass, no dumb popping, banging or loud blow off valves) and now it is giving 290bhp and 386 lb ft of torque. It feels unleashed, and the diff was definitely the best investment as it dials out most of that torque steer to the point you don't really worry about it. Also sharpens up handling, turn in, and evens out brake and tyre wear

[@totov7673]

How reliable is Mfactory helical limited slip diff and how well does it perform??. The Rs flywheel and clutch how reliable and how well does it perform?? does it fit with the stock OEM focus st transmission??

[@whitehead180]

I have a black st3 which I did 50k miles in. My other half now has it as we needed a 7 seater. On the odd day I get my backside back in it I fall in love with it all over again. I have owned many cars which were more expensive and more powerful but the ST is the only car I have ever truly loved. I don’t think I will ever sell it.

[@russlerjones3278]

the estate version of this car is a hidden gem, especially given how stupidly priced the new 2.3 focus is id have this any day

[@iSteveGWT]

Definitely mate, one of the FastFord magazine guys has the Focus ST estate and recently fitted the new mk4 ST alloys to it and it looks excellent.

[@n0w3lly90]

The 2.3 engine is also known to be more brittle than the 2.0 ecoboost. One of the reasons I passed the RS by

[@FatHead1979]

@@n0w3lly90 How so, once the revised head gasket is fitted? I'm a regular on the UK Ford owners forum and don't remember seeing many "my RS engine has gone pop" type threads.

[@davidwightman7375]

had an 18 plate focus st3 for a year now and i must say its the best car i`ve ever owned, love it

[@v4skunk739]

Try a FK8 Type-R. Its another step up all together.

[@ZAINALI-xm8ln]

@@v4skunk739 great car too 👍 although personally, the st is a better daily.

[@nicholasmassey3046]

@@v4skunk739 it looks like a child designed the civic with crayons...

[@v4skunk739]

@@nicholasmassey3046 Children designed the performance of Type-R's rivals.

[@mrlionrocks]

@@v4skunk739 true but big step up in price and running costs too

[@masterofThardus]

I have a 2018 ST1 over here in America, and let me tell you that is IS a truly amazing all 'rounder. I actually use it to drive rideshare, and I've put about 47,000 miles on it since I bought it last year. All I had to do was delete the Sound Symposer and it was essentially perfect. Despite the heavy use, the only reliability issues have been a busted evap can and a small brake leak that I still need to get to, and the latter was almost certainly the result of poor road conditions where I live (I live near Chicago). Outside that, it's only needed oil changes and tires/brakes (which I can claim on taxes lol). It gets a downright amazing 27 to 30mpg average fuel economy, the interior gets me lots of compliments even from people who don't realize it's a sports car, and it's a great conversation piece for people who realize it's sporty and has a manual transmission. All this and yet it's a blast when I want it to be and the torque delivery is amazing even when just puttering around in taxi mode. Only downsides are it's a bit on the small side when I have to carry more than two customers at a time, and once every blue moon I get a complaint about the ride quality (which tbf is a bit harsher than a Chevy Cruze or Mazda3). Those trade-offs are miniscule considering how much fun this thing is to drive and that I got it for just $17,200 with 36,000 miles on it. Ford struck absolute gold with this car.

[@benbattaglia118]

Picking up my all black Focus ST3 tomorrow…can’t wait.

[@n0w3lly90]

Throttle response is improved immeasurably by unrestricting the airbox (putting a proper cold air intake in place of the stock one), and a better intercooler, which come at a cost, but, far less than forking out for an RS (and less boyracer looking, which put me off the RS frankly - I am 48 you see!). Mine has 293bhp with a Pumaspeex MAXD-OUT 280+ retune, Milltek Sport catback, M-factory helical LSD, RS clutch and flywheel, Airtec intake, Pumaspeed R-Sport intercooler. I love fast Fords, and the ST is restrained in design. I test drove a lot of cars before opting for this one: a Merc AMG A35, Golf R, Cupra Leon and Mk4 ST (hated the way that looked though!)... have already tried a few of the smaller BMWs... i loved the Ford for its dynamics, handling, steering, and I just love the blue collar hero image frankly. Badge snobbery never interested me. Of all the cars I test drove, this made me smile the most. I also got a very low mileage example (8k miles only after 3 years). To add: I saw it as a project car to have fun with. Target of around 300bhp. Just have a downpipe and Stage 2 tune left, and it'll probably turn out around 310-315bhp. Even with 293bhp and with the help of much improved throttle response and the diff, 0-60 I have clocked at 5.2 secs on an accurate unit. That is a 1.3 sec improvement over stock!

[@IndefiniteMark]

I just got the mk3.5 (Stealth Grey - actually turns some heads!) - coming from an older Mercedes I'm hugely impressed. It's really clean-styled inside. The bodywork and angles are really aggressive but not over the top. It feels amazing to steer and such a joy to drive. It can be a little devil though when you hid the back roads, it wants full throttle. It tells me so, every time i do. :)

[@2WheelSam]

Had my mk3 for 2 and half years now. Only used on weekends and barely sees 2k miles a year. I just can bring myself to sell it as this review perfectly puts it. It just does everything perfectly. I don’t think a golf r or s3, m340i will give me the same driving engagement. Looks like it’s staying for life

[@waynerobertduprey8320]

i would buy it

[@Baasicstuff]

rented a 500 sport series when my car was being worked on. Wanted to drive those cars that I though were much faster, handled better etc. The focus does one thing really good, it drives great, feels very very sporty, miles better than the BMW. Breaks you get used to, theyre big because their used for stealing also, hill toe is a no go. Love the ST, only car that Ive really not done anything too, dont want to mess up how it feels. The BMW on the high way though was very soft, maybe apples to oranges but BMWs look great and faster than they really are. M3s are bad ass though

[@ricardowood997]

Fun fact, I got myself a 2017 focus ST-3 in May 2023. This video was a helpful tool in convincing me to get it. Thanks!

[@Chigleybus]

Owned one (PE62 EHC) for, literally, one month before it was stolen in April 2017. Mind you I do live in Liverpool. Nice car, it'd only done 10,000 miles when it got nicked.

[@rogermelvin602]

I have a white 2018 st3,had it for a year and I still love it.just put a hardline rear motor mount,wheels and tires and a bov that's it.A very fun comfortable family friendly car!

[@ravensthorne4631]

The 2.5T engine was awesome. I had a Mondeo with that engine in it, and other than the expensive cambelt job, it was a dream

[@M135iboost]

Great car, I preferred my MK2.5 with the Volvo 5 pot 🔥

[@TheMadTatter]

That's certainly one hell of an engine

[@bravofoxable]

Oh yeah! Had one in Electric Orange 😜👍🏻

[@TheMadTatter]

@@bravofoxable "Tangerine Scream" that colour was called in the UK

[@M135iboost]

@@TheMadTatter it was in the mk3 bud but the MK2.5 orange was called electric orange.

[@bravofoxable]

@@TheMadTatter sounds better, cheers from South Africa

[@nkdadson9962]

Mr. JayEmm, this is a fantastic review. Job well done.

[@sportzntouring]

These do look like a lot of fun. I always preferred the days when the Focus also came in 3 door form... Such a shame they stopped making them. Still a cool looking car.

[@bmwman1981]

It would be better if the st only came in 3 door as it’s a sports car not a practical car

[@sportzntouring]

@@bmwman1981 I agree, but sadly it was too expensive to make both vs. demand so now, we only have the 5 door 😔

[@bmwman1981]

@@sportzntouring they could make them in 3 door as a special order and it would sell even if they were slightly more expensive

[@JURASSICDIVERUK]

The 3.5 is definitely the best looking focus so far!

[@patrickhowell5578]

I have one of these ST3 in black, with 19'' wheels, all the extras & the rare moon roof, love it & more important so does my wife. I had the (Asbo)Focus 2.5 ST & the Fiesta ST prior, my wife hated both, this is leagues over those (apart from the 5 cylinder burble). I'm all for trying different cars, fancied the golf r next, but my wife has told me we are keeping the Focus. This is my favourite review, mirrors exactly how I feel & more importantly how my wife feels about the car & driving it.

[@edturners]

On my second Golf R tremendous piece of kit and owned an ST3 diesel. My job has recently changed where I am doing more miles so test drove another ST3 diesel today and to be honest I still love them far more involving and 50mpg so I'm having another get a stage 1 on it plenty quick enough

[@uselesscrapful]

Purchased a Race Red St like this 1 and never regretted buying it. Just a lovely car to have and to use.

[@mrc7966]

I really don't get "3D" plates. Usually accompanied by the smell of weed coming from the vehicle and the sound of a pointless "pop and bang" map.

[@johnjackson2349]

Great review. I always remember owning the mk2 focus st and a Ford salesman trying to sell a mk3 as I sat in on at the showroom. The 2.5l sounded better suspension was softer so more comfortable and very easy to tune 270+bhp on stage 1. Oh yeah and 3 doors which wasn't available on the mk3. Needless to say he didn't get the sale and must of found it harder to sell than the mk2. I will concede though now I have a family the mk3.5 looks awesome much better and I did almost buy one!

[@kevinparr4823]

I had a focus st 2015 for 4 and a half years it was faultless 0 issues sold it for a new fiesta st .. it's taken me a year to get used to the fiesta .. I felt like I'd made a terrible mistake .. the focus st is fast and comfortable much underrated car. ps I had the 18" wheels those are 19" .. which upset the ride with out much gain in handling.

[@sk4tec]

Hand on my heart I think I’d have a high mileage Fast Ford over my high mileage BMW. Running costs are insane for BMW and “so-so” reliability.

[@n0w3lly90]

The Fiesta ST is still a great car... more nimble and go kart like because of its light weight advantage. Did you get the one with the Performance Pack (Quaife diff, etc.?)

[@kevinparr4823]

@@n0w3lly90 yes had the slippery diff option.. my biggest grip was the seats ..way too uncomfortable and the engine is a bit ruff higher up the rev band. But used to it now .

[@neverrelax8992]

I have also driven both. Focus felt much more refined, comfortable and powerful. Very agile for its size. Motor mount, intercooler and shifter mods make it even better.

[@Iso5on]

Owned my 2016 ST for two years. Really do love it. Way more civilised than my previous FN2 CTR, and although the engine isn't as special as the K20 it does pack a much bigger punch. Torque steer does make you wrestle with it, even in the dry, but it's all part of the fun! I'm getting 40mpg on a run and 28 day to day. Fitted a Direnza short shifter to reduce the long gearlever throw. Worth it for 50 quid and dead easy job.

[@menamestom]

Totally agree on the torque steer, keep hold of the wheel and it’s not an issue, part of the fun as you say!

[@eagle3400]

What about chronic problems. Do you advise 2016 Focus ST?

[@kymol9542]

@@eagle3400 Had the car three years now and still zero issues (touch wood). Upgraded the exhaust to a Dreamscience catback. Love it more than ever.

[@markhibbitt1288]

I’ve a 2017 ST3 estate in tangerine scream. Best car I’ve ever had. I looked at a 5 door in stealth but not big enough to fit the pram in the boot. Now the pram has gone the dog fits in lovely. Think the performance is similar to the 5 door. Maybe a bit of a second here and there but as an all rounder I think it’s unbeatable for money. Run’s on 18s and the ride is ok. Word is the 19s are a bit more brutal.

[@MrMondeoST220]

Great video and completely agree. As someone approaching 50, much as I like the Fiesta ST I just couldn't buy one due to the image but the Focus ST seems to have a much more mature owner base.

[@andyhunt457]

Lol my dad's 75 and has a fiesta st 🤣

[@rabzo16]

@@andyhunt457 im nudging 64 and i love my st. It does make you feel like a teen-ager again, and drive like one lol.

[@richouk]

Fiesta ST's are massively targeted by car thieves in the UK. Are these targeted in the same way? Do they have the same keyless start system?

[@shaunsnyman5107]

The focus st mk2 is a legend

[@chriscushing1275]

The shift knob is a Ford item- I have the same one in my Fiesta ST and got it from Ford Motorsport.

[@steviep_0457]

I originally wanted an RS but I dont think I will be able to afford one for a little while the ST has come to my attention as its a lot more affordable than the RS. So Im glad that those cars are great

[@sth761]

Always preferred the wagon version of these, and the battleship grey colour (can't remember what it was actually called) they did was awesome.

[@eamoman651]

Stealth grey I believe.

[@agrumpycapybara]

You totally forgot to mention the 185bhp diesel version, still available in ST1, 2 or 3 guise. I bought a '67 St3 petrol in 2019 and absolutely love it. Upgraded from a mk6 Fiesta St that I had for 9 years.

[@TheStefmcd]

Had my 67 plate for 6 months. Done 7k and loved it. Really good balance between power and handling that always remains on the side of fun. Hard to beat as a value, fun daily.

[@kevinwall795]

Great review. I have owned the ST2 since new in 2013. Still only got 32k miles. Best car I have ever owned. Plus, and I hope I am not tempting fate, I have had zero issues aside from a new battery. I keep looking for a replacement but then think, well what more do I want? The ONLY gripe I have is that the turning circle is abysmal. Other than that, fab car.

[@johnmiceter]

Im trying to decide between one of these and a megane rs 265. Atm I cant find a good 265, so im leaning towards the ST, even though its Interstate and I have to travel like 1000ks for it. Im in Australia btw.

[@Ballsack44]

@@johnmiceter u get it?

[@johnmiceter]

@@Ballsack44 yeah man I did and I got a custom tune on it and the rest is stock and its awesome

[@denvparn]

@@johnmiceter the ford is the better one , not as hardcore but more fun . I also got the ford .

[@zzhughesd]

my nice comment is just keep up the great videos and I'm wanting a 2.5 ST, not this, alas

[@iJoey819]

Be interested in your opinion of the ST-3 2.0 TDCI, very torque-y engine, refined for a ford and 45-50 MPG. Do you think the diesel variant improves the ST or takes away from it?

[@Aprill264]

someone that works at the graveyard near my school owns one of these, always great to look at, it probably drives great as well

[@ZAINALI-xm8ln]

Who would want to work at a graveyard lol. He has good taste in cars though! 👌💯

[@comeberza]

The car is pristine lol, cars are bargains in the uk but you would adore Spanish mountain roads

[@justinmiller8993]

You're worried about the image of a fiesta st?! Dude you look like a darts player on holiday

[@YtseJam16]

ZING

[@johncarlo2630]

I had a 2016 Focus ST, nice car, but I found the torque steer a little more than disconcerting. The Fiesta ST has better overall driving dynamics

[@D1GU5]

Cool car, but the rear bumper and that dual exhaust are awful, much prefer rs or previous models just for that

[@mrwick7961]

i picked up a mk2 st225 last week, such a great car, and the sound is amazing

[@bendover-eo9iu]

Currently looking for one the now. How much did you pick yours up for? Quite hard to find a decent example here in Scotland

[@boabm6522]

@@bendover-eo9iu did you ever buy one?

[@themerchantofmenace3645]

I thought the Mk3 was a huge improvement over the Mk2. The only downside is the torque vectoring - it works fine, but drive fast for more than 5 - 10 minutes and the brakes will literally catch fire.

[@themerchantofmenace3645]

I thought the Mk3 was a huge improvement over the Mk2. The only downside is the torque vectoring - it works fine, but drive fast for more than 5 - 10 minutes and the brakes will literally catch fire.

[@chappy2121]

My Mrs swapped her gen 1, 1 series for an St line 1.5tdci a few years ago and this is a much better car. The interior build quality is a bit iffy in places but not sure I've ever been in a Ford with a decent interior

[@iael18]

Sony speakers came with the upgraded sound system which included the sub woofer in the boot

[@GMT439]

My opinion is the T5 Engine ST & RS were the best. I also bet prices will being to start reflecting my opinion in the not too distant future.

[@southernpimp5252]

30 MPH is fantastic, lmao! What are you guys getting in the UK!? 50 - 100 MPG!? 💀😂 I dream of the day one of my cars gets 30 MPG!

[@saidnojuanever_6108]

If you're in the US, UK gallons are slightly smaller I believe. The MPG figures will always be higher

[@thebigmacmoomin]

100% standard (bar RS plugs) Mk2.5 ST owner since 2014 here & Mk2 ST owner before that. I never felt the Mk3 had the character of the Mk2. Dad has the Mk3.5 ST TDCi and that is a nice drive on 18”s and that is a lot harder ride than mine. I prefer mine as it wasn’t too uncomfortable on a 300 mile motorway run. Anyway, those door guards were a cheap optional extra. The boot space is poor as it has the Sony speakers. This was an option called Premium Audio and also has a subwoofer in the boot on top of the spare wheel. Hence the boot floor is higher and has the polystyrene surround to raise the whole floor. You say the ride is a bit hard, it’s on the optional 19” wheels so should be better on the standard 18’s. The Mk2 has its flaws. Steering lock is terrible. I don’t like is the mpg, I get 20 with 95% town driving and the driving position being too high. One thing I do hate on the Mk2.5 that was fine on the Mk2 is the different steering settings. Mk2 had a key so if you changed to sport, it saves it to the key so next time you drive it remembers it. On the Mk2.5, as it’s keyless, it doesn’t do that so you have to change it every time. Very annoying so now it’s left in standard all the time. Used to use comfort as it was better around town. I was going to get a Fiesta ST, the 1.5 3cyl one with the optional diff but it’s still the image for me, no matter how good the car is. Will still keep my Mk2.5 for a bit longer, 17k miles in 7 years and more to come. Bar 7 months in an E46 M3, I’ve had Ford’s since Jan 2004.

[@CptCaptainClockwork]

This is one of the cars I'm considering for my next car, any risk of you doing a Mk4 Clio RS next? Then you'll have covered the 3 I'm considering.

[@jaysmartin]

Nice to not hear it farting as it goes down the road :)

[@coledurham679]

Currently watching this while in my 14 focus st 😂 just bought my focus last June and absolutely love it. Pretty cool to see what the Europe version of the ST looks like! Great review, man!

[@daviddenley3512]

Thanks for this Focus review James...I was considering getting one believing it was just a past dislike to the Ford but...I've changed my mind again...I'll leave the Ford alone as it simply is too small for me!

[@fatfreddyscoat7564]

Losing the centre exhaust in the latest incarnation has completely fucked the ST and lost it all its individuality: just looks like a regular focus now.

[@gilesstokes5674]

Moved from 2014 Fiesta Mk7 ST-2 MP215 to 2018 Focus ST-3. Both cars fantastic. The Focus is more grown up than the Fiesta. Both are fast cars on A and B roads. The ST-3 gadgets are amazing for this price point. The torque steer ain't so bad. In my view it adds to the excitement of the drive. Don't mash your foot to the floor like a gorilla and all will be OK! I was gonna contact you to offer mine for a review opportunity around Herefordshire, seems like I was beaten to it by this great red beauty! Pleased to hear the Mk3.5 ST has gone in to your list of favourite hot hatches OF ALL TIME! Great review and fantastic channel. Keep it going.

[@venom5809]

I have owned or driven just about everything and honestly the Focus ST to this day is one of my favorite cars ever, nothing can beat small and light, nothing, you can put 2,000 horsepower in a big pig of a car but it will still be a big pig of a car, but a small and light car with decent power will always be king.

[@A500-g6g]

It's not a light car it weighs about 1450kg. A dodge viper weighs about the same and has an 8.4 litre v10. People always think hatchbacks and small engined cars are light weight when more often than not they are pigs. If u really want small and light get an old honda crx those things actually weighed just over 900kgs or even a c5 corvette they came in under 1400kgs I think and had immense torque and cornering capabilities.

[@russellwade7810]

This is going to sound selfish but its a shame the petrol car is coming to the end of its life. I would like to have seen were ford would have gone with the rs.

[@alexanddebs]

I’m straight onto eBay and autotrader now.thank you very much! 😬😬😬

[@georgegillett6059]

Subwoofer/Sony + nav is an option. Door protectors are an option. 19s with sill plates and tinted windows are an option.

[@georgegillett6059]

I wish the seats had lumbar support for Scotland-esque distances.

[@TheMadTatter]

@@georgegillett6059 I feel the same way. I've driven a few and they do drive really nicely, but I wouldn't want to do a journey of more than an hour or so in one because the seats just never seem to support everything properly, and I've heard quite a few people of all different builds say this as well, seems an odd "miistake" for ford to have made.

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

I don't get it. Fridge magnet number plate but no wind deflectors?

[@ReaganReese]

I’ve owned one for almost a year now! 2015 ST3. These are sooo amazing! Comfortable, fast, great economy, and they look so good. Especially the one in this video with the aero. I believe these will be appreciated long term, especially here in the US since Ford pulled out most of their cars. I want to keep mine forever!

[@SimianWonder]

I loved my Mk2 ST3. The Mk3 just leaves me cold, regardless of how well judged a drive it might be, there's no "want" factor.

[@ianharris1812]

Get a mountune roll restrictor and the torque steer goes away,but makes a bit of vibration when the ac is on.Not too bad though.

[@mcgarry_92]

I've had a Diesel ST-3 for 3 years, had it tuned and upgraded the intercooler, running about 500nm of torque, 50 MPG and brilliant fun!

[@paulanderson7796]

Is there an estate derivative? I'm very fond of the way modern Fords drive. Won't dismiss a Focus as and when it's car change time. Which hopefully won't be for some time. I hang on to my cars, maintenance is cheaper than mend, and far cheaper the replace.

[@iantaylor620]

After just looking at a 10 year old Audi S3 for nearly £10k these Ford Focus ST's are really starting to look like a bit of a performance bargain. A stage 1 map I'd say would take them to 280bhp. I'd love an S3 but really can't justify spending that sort of money on a ten year old car.

[@seriouslyaye]

I've got a MK3.5 Focus but it's the EcoBoost. Half the power of the ST but I've done a few bits and bobs to up the performance and a few cosmetic upgrades as well so it does the job. Crucially it's been a brilliant car. Pretty much nothing ever goes wrong with it

[@phillwaller]

nothing wrong with that, the ST is a 2.0ltr EcoBoost engine too. I own one.

[@mariemccann5895]

Has it gone wrong yet?...

[@seriouslyaye]

@@mariemccann5895 No. Nothing has went wrong with it at all. Most reliable car I’ve ever owned

[@mariemccann5895]

@@seriouslyaye Excellent, good to hear, thanks.

[@lorrainewaterhouse3147]

I've ford focus ST3 2016. Love my car and its in good condition. For its age plus I've done less miles then this car and it gets service ever year since I've had it plus MOT past all the time. By Ford motors.

[@nedcoburn6421]

I've had one of the last made of these from new and I'd echo most of what Jay says here. I would guess the jittery ride is almost certainly down to those 19" wheels (stick to the standard 18" and the ride is very acceptable for a car which handles and steers so crisply). The torque steer can be all but eliminated by having a Quaife LSD fitted which selected Ford dealers will do (it's a Ford Approved Mountune accessory and came standard on the last of the Mk3 RS cars) - this also makes it hugely confidence inspiring when cornering and improves the steering feel even more. The also Ford Warranty approved MP275 performance upgrade makes it properly quick too, quite a few cars will already have this as you could order it from new - and it makes no difference to the insurance and its recognised as a model in it's own right by most of the insurance companies. IMO this is a real performance bargain and considerably cheaper than the admittedly brilliant RS which overshadowed it at the time. Worth checking out Autocar's review / road test of it too, echo's almost exactly what Jay has observed here. Great review Jay as always.

[@neilturner6749]

That exhaust reminds me of The Two Ronnie’s sketch “The Phantom Raspberry Blower of Olde London Town”

[@n0w3lly90]

It's certainly a unique look to the car... but I am getting a resonated Scorpion catback system fitted beginning of May to replace it ... that looks better - especially with ceramic black tips - and car will breathe out better ready for a sports cat, charge pipes and stage 2 tune next year for the just over 300bhp target I have set

[@steveo8533]

It suits the snowflake wheels.

[@DavidLee-zy3ju]

I saw your review of a MK2 focus but it was highly modified and you didn't like it. James,is it possible for you to find a standard 2.5 v5 MK2, love to know your opinions on it.

[@muttleysb5830]

Had the Diesel ST3 for 4 years and it never let me down, yeah I did at times regret not getting the petrol but the performance, handling and fuel economy as a family and motorway commuter always put those regrets to the back of my mind. Being made a permanent home worker made me sell Bertha and I decided to get the Fiesta PE ST which is great fun to drive especially on the back roads, the focus always felt more planted tho!

[@chriselse515]

I had a stealth grey one from 2015 to 2018 and loved it couldn't fault it apart from the lack of noise. But was good looking fast comfortable and good technology.

[@bacchusthompson5834]

I need those Rims state side... Gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Rhowhat]

The guys with the modded Focus STs (pops/bangs/wooshes) down the road from me have unfortunately moved into older C63s. If they just bumbled down our family cul-de-sac then I would enjoy that burble. Instead I worry for the local kids and pets. Same image I'm afraid.

[@joe718gt4]

This was a fun car to drive. Too bad the US doesn't get the latest Ford ST vehicles

[@Subricaro]

The torque steer really isn't that bad. Not sure why people complain about that.

[@JelloTypeR]

It sounds like an old singer sewing machine. Horrid noise. They torque steer like a bastard and the ride is worse than a medieval ox cart. Not what I’d call a fun car to drive, they’re just too compromised. An LSD, some trick dampers and a remap would sort it.

[@adriansmith76]

I have a 16 plate ST3. I say ST3 not out of 'look at me' but i just ran into an issue and want to potentially save some folk a scare...! The wandering eye corner headlights can pull loose a tiny little wire, due to the movement, and cause the eye to go into fault and shy away the beam, down and outwards. I read ford just want to replace the whole unit. £1000. out of warranty of course, which most are now. Well....f*** that! £20 on ebay for the new connector, solderless crimp which fixed and also lengthened the wire so it will 'never' happen again. Happy Fording folks!

[@karllelliott681]

I feel this review was spot on, so well done James! I Agree with the looks beating the RS but then I prefer a slightly understated car. Needless to say I have a '16 ST3 in black with STage 1.5 modifications and I love it. Please see below for further thoughts on this matter. Torque steer is NOT an issue if you get the Collins Performance Anti Torque steer bushes fitted (front WB rear bushes) at about £75+fitting. Your point about the LSD is also important. The car does not need it for road use (with aforementioned CP ATS bushes fitted) and I believe that adding an LSD can add more wayward steering pull on uneven road surfaces, though more traction is to be gained generally speaking. But for circa £2000 fitted is it worth it - nah! It is a very comfortable car with enough torquey grunt as and when required. Space could be a little constraining for a family larger than 2 but I guess that is what the estate would be for. Styling wise I much prefer it to the MK4. Economy is about right too - I get 28-36 MPG depending on driving style and journey type so not bad. Steering is great (my wife has a MK7.5 FiST, again STage 1.5) and so I agree again that the FoST is not as nimble as the FiST but as you say, it is a slightly different machine that definitely has more pace. I too am not a 'pop and bang' fan so the standard noise to me is great. As mine is lightly modified (Mountune exhaust, MP275 etc) the acceleration note is wonderfully gruff but won't drone when cruising. You really should try one with the MT lightly modified setup as a comparison. As for creaks and rattles - mine had two until I applied the 'RS' fix that can be found online. No more rattles! I feel very fortunate to have access to both cars. The FiST is under powered compared to the Fost but then that is not the point as it handles so well, so sublimely well. The FoST has far more pace but isn't so chuckable as the FiST and has poorer fuel economy, but is still huge fun and more practical. Both these cars were bought as they were the closest 'newest' most analogue type cars I could find (in 2018) without all the post 2017 'nanny state' bells and whistles on. I hate to think what will have to replace them in about 10 years time ........

[@gregmayled]

Always found these pleasant an certainly not ugly, but just rather boring both inside and out.

[@DrAl60103]

Glad you like it - I bought one of the last production February 2018 ST3s new as a daily. Even then there were still excellent discounts, and I got just shy of £4000 off list price. Coming up on its 3rd birthday, totally standard car apart from an OBD port delete for security, and I can't think of anything I'd want to change it for. Mine has the backup cam, sunroof, and the door edge protectors that you liked - those were an option, and were exceedingly cheap like you implied at only £75 extra! A no brainer. Late 66 plates onwards had the Sync3 infotainment which is acknowledged as being even better (faster, with android auto/apple carplay) than the Sync2 in your test car, and can even be hacked to the current Sync3.4 (seen it done, but not tried).

[@Ametisti]

My main issue with the Mk3 is I don't like the splat thing the tail light does, and the facelifted Mk2 is my very favourite Focus as far as appearances go.

[@michaelw6277]

I really like these and I briefly flirted with trading my GTI for one. The problem with it was that I didn’t feel that it was better enough to justify paying above the value of my used GTI. Had something happened and my GTI was suddenly no longer with me I’d definitely be on the lookout for a Recaro equipped ST. Although at this point I no longer need the hatchback practicality so I’d probably look for something more focused than a.... Focus.

[@ajworks5958]

It is your path...

[@michaelw6277]

@@ajworks5958 yeah at this point I've got high hopes for the new Nissan Z and next Subaru BRZ. If those are disappointments the MX-5 is the next obvious car to look at. But my GTI is more or less a track car now, and I value seat time over shiny new metal so I'm probably stuck with the GTI forever.

[@jeffallinson8089]

Brilliant fun for sensible money, what's not to love?

[@alexanderweisz2375]

I recently bought my third car, a 2013 Focus 1.6 Ecoboost 150, and it's a nice car with sharp handling and a good equipment level (Leather seats, cruise, bluetooth audio, electric driver's seat controls etc.). My plan is to upgrade to a Focus ST 3.5 like the one i the video in a couple of years. Unfortunately cars here in Norway are ridiculously expensive, and even a 2013 ST is still north of 20K pounds. Got to save some money and wait until the facelifted cars get a little cheaper!

[@sk4tec]

I would love to sell my 320d wagon for a ST wagon. Sadly they don’t sell so aren’t available 2nd hand. But.. BMW are planning on selling M wagons. I really hope it re-invigorates the fast (affordable) wagon market as opposed to SUVs

[@mikewright7407]

Very much looking to get a Focus 3.5 estate as a family car. Trying to find one though is not easy

[@cabovermike]

So you like it jayemm,you like it allot ! ,.good no nonsense review, i fancy a ford focus to, looking at the ecoboost 1.0 st line, or the 1.5, and i am drawn to the 2.0 st 3, i,m comming from a 2.2 tdci mondeo mk 4 titanium x sport, have you reviewed one ? brilliant car, but fancy going back to a nice petrol engine, looking at 2018 model focus from £10k to £15 k st around 2015,.ive always been a ford man, ford thames van (ask your dad), cortina 2.3 v6 ghia/granada 2.0 ghia/sierra saphire cosworth (2wd)/st 200/and presently the 2.2 titxsport,.all been brilliant cars, cheap to run and buy and impecably reliable, so i,m sticking with the brand,.cheers JM,.

[@DarkAngel1979fuck]

I had the mg zs 180 a few cars previously to this and for handling and enjoyment the mk3 focus st fits the bill. It can drive comfortably with me and the family in on long trips. However when i want to take it on the twisties round the Yorkshire dales its very capable and always puts a smile on my face. My advice would get decent rubber on these because they do torque steer alittle bit but apart from that its a very good all rounder.

[@MrHarryFTW]

I had a prefacelift, for me the killer was extremely shoddy build quality. Bits of trim loose, door seals not staying on, and mechanical problems with the steering, track rod ends siezing and a radiator leak weeks after I bought it. My Mk8 Fiesta ST now is much better, though the Focus was a lovely car to drive

[@amdinga561]

I was set on getting a hot hatch and couldn't decide between the ST, GTI, Mazda speed3, or hyundai veloster. a 2017 ST showed up in my area with 20k miles on it and I went for it. 5 years later I'm so glad I did, it's such a fun car (even rowdy in its own way) but keeps a baseline level of practicality. Really sad to see Ford discontinue the line here in the US, but that's made STs a sort of cult collector's item now at least in the states. I love watching people review these cars because they almost always walk away with a grin.

[@wezz69]

Leave off 31 mpg? Even when i nannie mine i dont get above 24 (mostly average 21mpg though for a 1 year older car)