Last Ford Focus ST Rolls Off Production Line—Will We Ever See Another One?
Cologne, Germany – An era has officially ended for enthusiasts as the last Ford Focus ST rolled off the production line in Germany, confirmed by a poignant image shared on Reddit. This marks the end of a celebrated hot hatchback that was one of the few genuine rivals to the Volkswagen Golf GTI, offering a compelling blend of precise handling and performance in a compact, relatively affordable package. While a direct successor in its traditional form seems unlikely, a sliver of hope remains for the return of a performance-oriented compact Ford.
Source:Â u/tbazsi95/Reddit
A Proud Hot Hatch Legacy Comes to an End
Ford’s storied hot hatch history spans over four decades, originating with models like the Fiesta SuperSport and XR2 in the early 1980s. The first-generation Focus saw the development of the SVT version, boasting 170 horsepower and a uniquely tuned suspension. Later, the Fiesta ST emerged with its turbo engine delivering nearly 200 horsepower, a slick manual gearbox, and an immensely enjoyable driving experience, cementing its place as one of the top small hatchbacks.
The last Focus ST sold in North America (2018 model year) featured a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine producing 252 horsepower, achieving 0-60 mph in under 6.5 seconds. While Ford ended production of both the Fiesta and Focus for North America around this time, other markets received another generation. The newest Focus ST sold overseas packed an impressive 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine developing 276 hp. Now, that global production has ceased.
A Focus Comeback, But Not as a Hot Hatch
Reports from earlier this month suggest that the Focus nameplate might make a comeback, but not in the way enthusiasts desire. A midsize crossover bearing the Focus name is reportedly under consideration for a 2027 release. This new vehicle would utilize the same architecture as the existing Maverick pickup and Bronco Sport crossover, with both hybrid and fully electric powertrains possible.
This move mirrors Ford’s controversial decision to apply the Mustang name to an electric crossover (Mach-E). While some argue for preserving the legacy of the original Focus hatchback/sedan with a fresh new name for a crossover, the company’s past actions suggest that brand recognition often trumps purist sentiment. If a Focus crossover does materialize, a performance version could potentially revive the Focus ST badge, though it would undoubtedly be a very different vehicle from the hot hatch enthusiasts loved.
Ford’s Shifting Strategy and Glimmer of Hope
With the demise of the Focus and Fiesta, Ford’s cheapest new model is currently the Maverick pickup truck, reflecting a significant shift in the company’s focus away from compact cars in the sub-$40,000 category.
However, the complete absence of small hatchbacks and sedans in Ford’s lineup may not be permanent. A recent statement from Bill Ford Jr., Henry Ford’s great-grandson, hinted that Ford is considering a return to small, efficient, compact cars. Rivals like Toyota, Honda, and Kia continue to enjoy success in these segments, suggesting a viable market.
If small Fords do make a comeback, it naturally raises hopes for another Ford hot hatch. While concrete evidence is scarce, the automotive industry’s current flexibility, with shifts back to hybrids and gas-powered cars, suggests that what seemed like a sensible decision five years ago might be re-evaluated today. The possibility of another brilliant small Ford remains, however faint.
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