2019 Focus ST to use 2.3 Ecoboost engine

[jpd80]

2019 Focus ST to use 2.3 Ecoboost engine


by Sam Sheehan
23 April 2018

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/n...coboost-engine



Ford is developing its most engaging Focus ST yet with the proven 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine,
making the future model its last non-electrified high-performance Focus.

Replacing the old ST’s 2.0-litre engine, the 2.3-litre unit will have close technical links to the
aluminium four-pot used by the 345bhp Focus RS but will be adapted for life in the front-wheel
drive ST to offer around 250bhp. Since the next RS is due to kick-start hybrid power for Ford's
hot models from 2020, the upcoming ST will serve as the final chapter in pure combustion power
for Focus hot hatches.

Ford is understood to have chosen the 2.3-litre powerplant, rather than a more powerful version
of the 1.5-litre three-cylinder featured in the new Fiesta ST, because the smaller engine would
have to be run close to its reliable limit in this guise. The Focus ST competes against the Renault
Mégane RS and Peugeot 308 GTi, which come with 276bhp and 266bhp respectively.