Ford Focus ST vs. Volkswagen Golf GTI: A Close Competition for Hot Hatch Supremacy
When comparing the Ford Focus ST and the Volkswagen Golf GTI, there are some key factors to consider. In terms of price, the Ford had an advantage at launch, being around £1000 cheaper than the Golf GTI. Now, used examples of the Focus ST can be found for up to £2000 less than the Volkswagen. However, price isn’t the only factor to consider when determining which hot hatch has the edge.
According to Autocar’s road testers, the Ford Focus ST received a higher rating of four and a half stars compared to the Golf GTI’s four stars. The testers praised the Focus ST for its poised and interactive handling, as well as its responsive and flexible engine. The Volkswagen Golf GTI, while still highly regarded, fell slightly short in these areas.
The Ford Focus ST was available in multiple guises, including five-door hatch and estate options. It offered a choice of engines, including a 2.0-litre Ecoboost turbo petrol or a 182bhp 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine from 2015 onwards. For this comparison, we will focus on the petrol hatch variant.
One criticism of the Focus ST was its engine’s slight reluctance to begin spinning at low revs. However, once on the road, critics were won over by its performance and the engine’s noise, which is piped into the cabin. The Focus ST also proved to be more economical than its predecessor, returning 40mpg on a touring run.
One of Ford’s goals with the Focus ST was to create a hot hatch that could be used for daily driving, not just on weekends. They also aimed to design a car that would appeal to buyers worldwide, rather than just in Europe. According to Autocar, Ford succeeded in both of these goals.
In terms of design, the Focus ST has a sporty bodykit with a rear wing and centrally located exhausts. However, for a more visually dramatic look, the facelifted Mk3.5 model from 2015 offers an even lower stance, bigger alloys, narrowed headlights, a larger grille, and sharper creases.
Inside the Focus ST, you’ll find Recaro seats, a chunky steering wheel, and a bank of gauges that includes boost pressure. While the cabin looks good, some reviewers noted that the Golf GTI has a higher quality interior. The Focus ST’s boot is also quite small at just 316 litres.
There were three trim levels available for the Focus ST: ST-1, ST-2, and ST-3. The ST-2 trim added 18-inch alloys, dual-zone climate control, a heated windscreen, colored seat panels, and an upgraded version of Ford’s Sync 2 infotainment system. The ST-3 trim added leather seat facings, bi-xenon lights, rear parking sensors, and keyless entry.
When it comes to reliability, the Ford Focus ST is generally considered to be reliable. However, there are some common problems to watch out for when buying a used model. These include stolen or crashed cars with false identities, cars passed off as higher trim levels, and cars that have been tuned to their limits. It’s important to check for engine issues such as exhaust smoke, coolant loss, and low boost pressure. Additionally, pay attention to the clutch and look for signs of slipping in higher gears under hard acceleration. Check the tires, steering, suspension, wheels, brakes, interior trim, and body for any potential problems or damage.
In terms of performance, the Ford Focus ST offers plenty of power with a claimed 0-60mph time of 6.2 seconds. The engine delivers a satisfying noise, especially in the higher rev range. The 2.0-litre diesel engine is quieter but still provides ample torque and a respectable 0-60mph time of 6.5 seconds. The Focus ST’s handling is praised for its balance between everyday usability and sportiness. The suspension is reasonably supple, providing a comfortable ride around town while still maintaining excellent body control on challenging roads.
When it comes to fuel efficiency and running costs, the Focus ST offers good value for money. It has an impressive fuel economy, with a touring run returning over 40mpg. The CO2 emissions are also relatively low, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable road tax.
In conclusion, the Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI offer slightly different driving experiences. The Focus ST excels in terms of performance, handling, and value for money, making it a great choice for enthusiasts who want an engaging hot hatch for daily driving. While the Golf GTI may have a higher quality interior, the Focus ST offers a more affordable option without compromising on performance. Ultimately, if you want that extra engagement and visual impact, the Ford Focus ST is the way to go.
