According to UK site Autocar, the next Ford Focus ST will go on sale soon after the regular Mk IV Focus hits showrooms, offering up 275 horsepower from a turbocharged, 1.5-liter engine with four cylinders.
That’s a substantial increase in total power output, and an even more impressive leap when the engine’s smaller displacement is taken into account. The current Focus ST produces 125 horsepower-per-liter, while the even-hotter RS makes just over 150 per liter; the next ST’s 275 horsepower would mean a volume-specific output of over 180 horsepower-per-liter.
Getting there could prove a substantial challenge. The current Focus ST’s 2.0L EcoBoost already relies upon turbocharging, twin-independent variable valve timing, and direct injection, though Autocar reports Ford will likely switch out the turbo for a twin-scroll unit. As with the 1.5-liter, three-cylinder engine powering the all-new Fiesta ST, Ford will put some effort into increasing efficiency and cutting emissions at the same time that performance is improved. To this end, the Focus ST’s 1.5L four-pot will reportedly feature cylinder deactivation.
The 2019 Ford Focus ST is expected to go on sale late next year, following quickly after the more pedestrian Ford Focus sedan and hatchback. All models will ride on Ford’s new C2 platform, and Ford is said to be centering its efforts on improving fit and finish rather than radically changing the Focus’ styling.
Stay tuned for more as it develops.
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