The Ford Focus ST, one of the most popular hot hatchbacks in the world, has officially reached the end of its journey. After nearly 20 years of production, Ford has built the final Focus ST in Europe, marking the end of an era for fans of sporty compact cars.
A Brief History of the Focus ST
The Ford Focus first appeared in Europe in 1998, before making its way to the U.S. in 1999 as a 2000 model. Ford quickly turned the small car into something special by releasing performance versions. The U.S. market got the Focus SVT between 2002 and 2004, followed by the first Focus ST from 2005 to 2007.
These early versions proved that small cars could be both affordable and exciting to drive, rivaling other sporty compacts like the Honda Civic Si, Toyota Celica GTS, and Mini Cooper John Cooper Works. Compared to the aging Ford Escort, the Focus felt like a completely new generation of fun driving.
While the U.S. said goodbye to the Focus in 2018, Europe continued enjoying the fourth generation of the car until now. Sadly, production has now ended in Germany, and Ford will shift its attention toward crossovers and electric vehicles in Europe due to stricter emissions regulations.
The First U.S. Focus ST
The first U.S.-market Focus ST arrived in 2005, based on the ZX4 sedan. It wasn’t as extreme as the earlier Focus SVT, but it still featured performance enhancements, including upgraded dampers and a five-speed manual transmission. However, after 2007, the U.S. lost its ST while other markets gained improved versions built on newer platforms.
It wasn’t until 2013, under Ford’s global “One Ford” strategy, that the U.S. finally received the third-generation Focus ST. This model was widely loved and even rivaled the Focus RS for driving excitement. Unfortunately, both models disappeared from American dealerships again in 2018, though other countries continued to get newer versions.
The Final Generation of the Focus ST
The last and final generation of the Focus ST began production in 2019. This model became a true performance hatchback, powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine producing 276 horsepower. It came with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, but drivers could also choose a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
For those wanting variety, Ford even offered a 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel version with 187 horsepower in Europe. To manage all that power, the ST was equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), torque-steer reduction software, and advanced steering geometry.
The performance features didn’t stop there. The optional Performance Pack brought launch control, rev-matching for smoother gear changes, electronically adjustable dampers, Track Mode, and red brake calipers. Later, a Track Pack option added sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, upgraded brakes from the Mustang Mach-E, and new Ford Performance seats.
Special Edition Models
To give the Focus ST a proper send-off, Ford released limited-edition models in 2021 and 2024. These included upgrades like KW V3 adjustable coilovers, lightweight 19-inch wheels, and a hydraulically controlled eLSD for sharper handling. The 2024 version also carried over the Mach-E brake system and Pirelli tires from the Track Pack, making it one of the most capable Focus STs ever built.
The End of an Era
With the end of production, the Focus ST joins the list of iconic performance cars that are no longer with us. For many enthusiasts, the Focus ST was their first taste of a true hot hatch—a small, affordable car that could deliver big smiles on winding roads or even at the track.
While Ford’s future in Europe will now focus on crossovers and electric vehicles, the Focus ST will be remembered as one of the greatest small performance cars of its time. Its blend of everyday usability and serious driving fun will ensure that it is never forgotten by the car community.
FAQs
Why did the Focus ST get discontinued?
The main reason is new rules in Europe about emissions and fuel economy. Small sporty cars like the Focus ST don’t fit as well into those rules, so the company is focusing more on electric cars and crossovers instead
What year was the last Focus ST made?
The final Focus ST rolled off the production line in 2025. That means 2025 is the last model year anyone will see new ones being built.
Will the Focus ST come back in the future?
It’s unlikely in the same form, since automakers are now investing heavily in electric vehicles. There could be a sporty electric hatchback in the future, but it probably won’t be the same gas-powered ST that fans loved.
What makes the Focus ST special compared to regular versions?
It had a turbocharged engine with much more power, a sportier suspension, performance brakes, and features like launch control and rev-matching. It was built to be fun and fast while still being a practical everyday car.
Was the Focus ST sold in the U.S.?
Yes, but not the entire time. Americans first got it in 2005, then again in 2013 when the global version came out. It was sold in the U.S. until 2018, but newer versions were only available overseas.
How much horsepower did the final Focus ST have?
The last version came with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine that made 276 horsepower. That’s a lot for a compact car, and it made the ST one of the most exciting hatchbacks in its class.
What cars were rivals to the Focus ST?
It often went head-to-head with cars like the Honda Civic Si, Mini Cooper John Cooper Works, and Volkswagen GTI. All of these were small cars built to give drivers a fun and sporty feel without costing as much as luxury sports cars.
Will the Focus still be made without the ST model?
No, production of the entire Focus lineup will stop in late 2025. That means both the normal versions and the ST are ending.
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