New Car Honours 2006

30th June 2006

	An engine sourced from Volvo may not sound like a recipe for performance car heaven, but the 220bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo unit is gutsy, tuneful and able to hurl the ST from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds.

Originally conceived as thrill-seekers in sensible clothes, in many ways competitors in this class are now the ultimate automotive all-rounders.

After all, we expect a hot hatch to look the business, accelerate like a scalded cat, sound superb and take corners better than David Beckham. We also want it to offer all the same attributes as a conventional family hatchback, from tackling daily chores to being careful with the petrol.

It's a tall order, but one car has met it particularly well. The Ford Focus ST is sensational. For starters, the stylists have made the most of a comparatively dull standard hatchback by giving the hottest model in the range a tasteful yet distinctive set of modifications.

An engine sourced from Volvo may not sound like a recipe for performance car heaven, but the 220bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo unit is gutsy, tuneful and able to hurl the ST from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds. Ford's renowned chassis and suspension expertise ensures the Focus handles and steers beautifully, yet the ride is remarkably smooth and well mannered. The cosseting cabin features well bolstered seats and VW-rivalling build quality. Yet, despite the higher boot floor level, practicality is unimpaired. But the best news is the cost - prices start at only £17,520.

Considering the Focus ST's multi-talented abilities, that's a bargain.

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