Ford Focus ST vs Ford Focus ST-Line: A comparison


The Ford Focus us a great family-sized hatchback, with a generous cabin space and high interior quality. The Ford Focus range is also known for its wide range of engines and trim options, from the basic entry-level Zetec to the top-spec Ford Focus ST.

The Ford Focus ST is one of the highest specification Focus models available and it’s an extremely popular choice. However, the Ford Focus ST-Line provides the overall style of a Focus ST with lower initial and ongoing costs.

Knowing the similarities and differences as well as the options available to you when it comes to choosing between the Focus ST or ST-Line will help you to choose the right car for your needs.

In this guide:

Learn more about the Ford Focus ST including engine size, fuel options and interior and exterior features.

Find out more about the Ford Focus ST-Line including engine, fuel, exterior and interior options.

Learn more about the key similarities and differences between these two car models.

Ford Focus ST: Specifications

The Ford Focus ST is one of the fastest hatchback models available with breath taking performance, excellent style and improved in-car technology, although the starting price is higher than basic trim options.


Available engine sizes

The Ford Focus ST is available with a range of engine sizes including:

  • 0-litre EcoBlue diesel
  • 3-litre EcoBoost


Key Specifications

As a top-spec model, the standard kit included in the ST is very impressive:

  • Dark grey 19-inch alloy wheels
  • LED lights
  • Keyless entry
  • Recaro sports seats
  • Optional Sold Race Red paint


Gearbox Options

The Ford Focus ST gearbox options include:

  • Six-speed manual gearbox
  • Eight-speed automatic gearbox


Fuel Options

The Ford Focus ST range includes both petrol and diesel engines.

The EcoBlue diesel engine provides 53.3mpg, with emissions of 140g/km. Whereas, the 2.3-litre petrol EcoBlue delivers 34.9mpg and 187 g/km of CO2.


Performance

The performance with the ST is brilliant thanks to the well-designed chassis, performance parts and engines, anti-lag technology, enhanced steering and Michelin Pilot Sport tyres.

It is also possible to choose an optional Performance Pack with provides launch control and matches the revs to downshifts, in addition to the track driving mode which allows the engine to shift to its most aggressive setting.

To find out more about our range of new Ford Focus ST cars and current offers, please click here.

Ford Focus ST offer

Or, to find out more about our selection of used Ford Focus ST-Line cars, please click here.

Ford Focus ST-Line: Specifications

Although the Focus ST-Line is a more economical choice than the Focus ST, it still benefits from a sports-inspired design to guarantee that it stands out from the crowd.
 

Engine Size

There are four potential engines to choose from with the Focus ST-Line, which is great if you’re looking for lower running costs and greener choices in comparison to the Focus ST.

Engine options include:

  • 0-litre petrol EcoBoost engine
  • 5-litre diesel EcoBlue engine
  • 0-litre diesel engine


Key Specifications

The sporty Focus ST-Line models offer:

  • Sporty front and rear spoiler
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Keyless start
  • Red stitching
  • Alloy pedals
  • Flat bottomed steering wheel


Gearbox Options

Gearbox options for the Focus ST-Line include:

  • Six-speed manual
  • Eight-speed automatic


Performance

The handling of the ST-Line is excellent, thanks to its stiffer lowered suspension, which provides excellent agility and balance when cornering. The range of engines available provides a variety of options to suit your driving style.

To find out more about our range of new Ford Focus ST-Line cars and current offers, please click here.


Ford Focus ST-line offer

Or, to find out more about our selection of used Ford Focus ST-Line cars, please click here.

Ford Focus ST vs Ford Focus ST-Line: A comparison

So, how do the two models compare?

 

Ford Focus ST

Ford Focus ST-Line

0-60mph

5.1s-7.6s

8.5s – 11.1s

Power (bhp)

280

Petrol – 99, 123, 138

Diesel – 94

Engine Size

2.0-litre

2.3-litre

 

1.0-litre

1.5-litre

2.0-litre

 

Engine Torque (Nm)

Up to 420

240

Transmission

Automatic

Manual

Automatic

Manual

MPG

35.8

61.4-80.7

Top Speed (mph)

137

130

Fuel tank capacity

47l

55l


Key Similarities

The ST-Line offers the same sports-inspired touches which are features on the premium Focus ST model.

Whether you choose the ST or the ST-Line trim level, you will benefit from:

  • Rock Metallic paint
  • ST badge
  • ST gear knob
  • A dark roof liner
  • Three-spoke steering wheel

 

These touches provide the two cars with a very similar style.

Key Differences

The engine choices are the main difference between the Focus ST and the ST-Line, with the ST-Line sacrificing some performance in favour of more modest engines. The fastest engine in the Focus line-up is the 2.3-litre EcoBoost, which is not available in the ST-Line range.

Another key difference between the Focus ST and ST-Line is the cost of the cars, both in terms of the initial price and ongoing costs. As a higher spec car with a larger engine, the Ford Focus ST carries higher costs in terms of tax, insurance and fuel consumption. Due to its smaller engine, the Focus ST-Line offers better fuel economy than the Focus ST models.

You can find out more information about the road costs for both of these models in our guide.

The costs of each model will depend on the spec you choose as well as any optional extras so this is important to consider when choosing between the two models.

The Verdict

If you are looking for a lower initial purchase price, cheaper insurance, and lower running costs, it is likely the ST-Line will be the preferred option for you. Alternatively, you may wish to consider cheaper options such as the Zetec or Titanium, although you will lose some of the sports features.

However, with costs taken out of the equation, there are no doubts that the performance and spec of the Ford Focus ST lead the rest of the Focus range.

Whichever trim you choose, the Focus is a practical, stylish, and spacious hatchback, which provides a variety of engines and responsive handling.

At TC Harrison, our new cars are available with competitive, straightforward finance with Ford Credit on a 3-year Ford Options plan and pay low monthly payments and deposits until 31st March 2021.

To find out more about any of the Ford Focus trims, please contact your nearest TC Harrison dealership.