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New XR3 Shows Its Class

It's the fast Ford the UK's performance car fans have been waiting for - and it's finally hit the road. But can the new Focus ST really live up to all the hype? To find out, Auto Express was on hand as the spiritual successor to the XR3 hit the test track. We also matched the car up with VW's sensational Golf GTI - the machine likely to present the Ford with its biggest challenge.

By Chris Thorp

29th June 2005

Our exclusive pictures reveal that away from the motor show crowds, the ST's muscular lines come alive in the summer sun. Designers have done a great job in evolving the latest Focus's conservative shape into a striking hot hatch. Inside, the makeover is just as dramatic. The colour of the bodywork is carried over to the seats, while chrome trim adds visual impact to the well built cabin. On top of the dash, three extra gauges hint at what's under the bonnet.

As with the outgoing Focus RS, the ST employs a turbocharger to maximise performance. However, it takes power from a five-cylinder Volvo engine. This is the first five-cylinder unit ever used by Ford, and it "gives the Focus a unique character", according to one insider.

While the newcomer's 217bhp output is bettered by the 237bhp Vauxhall Astra VXR, Ford has engineered its front-wheel-drive Focus to deliver gutsy low-down torque. Early indications are that the ST - short for Sport Technologies - drives like no other Ford ever produced before. The distinctive engine noise is complemented by a chassis set-up which aims to provides plenty of grip, combined with entertaining handling.

So impressive is the performance that, during development testing, the ST is claimed to have shaved a massive 12 seconds off the best lap time set by an old-shape Focus RS around the N΃¼rburgring in Germany. By the time production models hit the UK, suspension settings will have been further tuned to our roads to give a supple ride as well.

We'll give you our definitive verdict when the ST is launched later this year, before it goes on sale in early 2006. With the Astra VXR due at the same time, all eyes will be on the hot hatch market to see if the Golf GTI loses its crown.

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