After a very long wait, Ford has finally unveiled the production version of the dramatic new Focus ST at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and they've also announced that, next to the standard five-door model, Europeans will also be getting a station wagon version. The Focus ST is Ford’s first truly global performance car and Ford promises it will combine power with fuel efficiency and an impressive handling characteristic.

For the new model, Ford has tuned the 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost engine with a redesigned intake and a new exhaust system with a unique engine calibration for a total output of 250 HP. The engine was combined with a 6-speed manual transmission which has also been specially revised for the ST.

Ford has also announced that many of the design elements seen in the Focus ST will also be used in all the future ST models. These elements include the aggressively enhanced front and rear bumpers and the addition of a rear spoiler and sideskirts, plus a unique signature color.

UPDATE 05/01/2012: All hatchback performance enthusiasts are monitoring the upcoming release of the new Ford Focus ST salivating like a pack of dogs surrounding a meaty T-bone steak. There is good reason for this excitement, as this 2.0-liter turbocharged Focus pumps out a stout 247 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, which is an astonishing 45 percent more horsepower and 83 percent more torque than the final model year of the Focus SVT (2004).

Well, the Ford Focus ST ordering books are now open and prices have been revealed. Let’s start with the base model Focus ST, which it is set at $23,700. The Ford->ke31 Focus ST2 (group 201A) has a base MSRP of $26,205 minus a $120 discount and the ST3 (group 202A) has a base MSRP of $28,540 minus a $405 discount. Granted, this is all barring dealerships doing the ultimate screw-the-customer move and slapping a “Market-Based Markup” on the sticker price. Hit the jump for more pricing details!

UPDATE 07/17/12: Ford has released a new video of their highly amazing Focus ST doing what it does best: running roughshod over the race track and calling out some of its competitors. Heck, Ken Block and Tanner Foust are also in the video. Good times all around! Check it out by clicking on the photo above!

UPDATE 01/22/13: The Ford Focus ST is now available in the UK with a base price £16,995. Depending on the trim and options you avail, expect that price to go up significantly.

Hit the jump to read more about the Ford Focus ST.

2012 Ford Focus ST

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Ford Focus ST
  • Engine/Motor: Ford EcoBoost
  • Horsepower: 250
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The new Ford Focus ST uses the striking kinetic design of the standard Focus, but adds the muscular presence and specific performance cues of an ST model. The model will be offered in either Tangerine Scream, Performance Blue, Race Red, or White combined with a set of 18" alloy wheels in the iconic Y-shaped spoke design.

The most impressive design elements of the new ST will be Ford’s signature trapezoidal grille at the front, sculpted side skirts, and the dynamic rear bumper with prominent diffuser-style vents in the lower fascia. There is also the highly effective roof spoiler and unique center-exit exhaust with a stunning tailpipe design influenced by the exclusive hexagonal mesh of the front bumper.

The interior will get Recaro seats and specially designed pedals, a new steering wheel, and gearshift. The rear seats ahve also been given extra padding to allow for a more comfortable ride.

Engine

Under the hood of the new Focus ST, Ford has placed a revised version of the 2.0-liter Ford EcoBoost engine delivering 250 HP. It gets redesigned intakes and a new exhaust system with unique engine calibration.