Aaron Brzozowski
The Ford Focus ST Diesel.
Diesel.
To us Americans, something about that doesn’t quite sit right, does it? But in Europe, the 182 horsepower, 2.0-liter Duratorq diesel engine has proven a popular option for the Focus ST hot-hatch. In fact, since its introduction earlier in the year, Ford says that demand for the ST-badged sporty Focus model has roughly doubled in Europe, with demand split: 54 percent of European buyers opt for the 246 horsepower, 2.0-liter petrol EcoBoost, while 46 percent walk out with a Ford Focus ST Diesel.
Now, Ford Europe has committed another senseless act of “catering to market demand,” or whatever one should call it; they’ve updated the 2016 Ford Focus ST Diesel with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission option. With the PowerShift DCT equipped, the Ford Focus ST Diesel becomes the automaker’s quickest-ever diesel-powered production car, reaching 100 km/h (62 mph) in an impressive 7.7 seconds. That’s 0.4 seconds faster than the manual-equipped car.
Says Ford Europe VP of Marketing, Sales & Service Roelant de Waard: “[The] new Focus ST has been a runaway success with customers spoilt for choice between our latest petrol and diesel power units. Diesel drivers now have the additional option of the Ford PowerShift transmission, which allows them to swap between quick-shifting automatic and sporty manual to suit their mood.”
We think we speak for all Americans when we cry: “It’s despicable! Absolutely revolting! Ugh!” Etc.
