For the first time since...
For the first time since 2000, Ford is back in the black. Profits for last year stood at í‚á£268million, reversing massive losses recorded in previous years. However, it"s not the cars which are earning the firm money - most of the cash has come from its financing arm as American buyers signed up for low-cost credit deals.
The fastest Ford Focus...
The fastest Ford Focus is ready to earn its stripes – and Auto Express has the first official pictures of the scorching new ST.
With a sleek new look, improved interior and extra hi-tech kit, the revitalised motor has the VW Golf GTI firmly in its sights.
Externally, the newcomer now gets the freshened-up face found on lesser models, including the swept-back headlamps. However, there’s also a new deeper front bumper, side skirts and roof-mounted spoiler at the rear, where you’ll also find LED tail lamps.
Inside, there are higher quality materials for the dash, upgraded dials and heavily bolstered Recaro seats. Options include a voice-activated sat-nav, carbon finish trim and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Under the skin the ST remains unchanged, which is no bad thing. Power comes from the same smooth and punchy 222bhp 2.5-litre turbocharged motor, Performance is blistering with the sprint from standstill to 62mph takes just 6.8 seconds, while the top speed is 150mph.
Elsewhere, minor tweaks have been made to the excellent chassis to give the sharp-handling Focus an extra dose of refinement.
As before the model will be available both three and a five-door bodystyles and with the same three trim levels. Prices start at ÷£18,250, rising to ÷£20,850.