2013 Ford Focus ST 0-60 MPH Drive & Review 

I like how he takes the plastic cover off and just throws it on the ground like he owns it

Love these STs ... beautiful hatchback with good performance at this price-point, plus still very good gas mileage for commute.

For those complaining about Nathan's launch, this car has a VERY springy clutch and takes a bit of practice to get used to. I've driven a Focus ST on a few occasions and the first time I drove the car, my launches were pretty poor as well. After a bit of practice, I have gotten much better and I'm sure Nathan would, too. The other small issue that may have negatively impacted Nathan's 0-60 time were the longish shifts in this car (front to back, not side to side). Luckily, Steeda has a great short-throw shifter kit that corrects that issue. If anyone is looking for a car that plants a smile on your face every time you drive it, this is the one.

I've owned my Focus ST for 1 year now. No problems to speak of. 10,000 miles so far. Good daily driver, but when you get it out on a windy country road late at night, warm up the turbo and tires, throw it into third and it becomes a completely different animal. Haters can say whatever they want, it doesn't matter. This car is a good daily and it makes me smile like a goof every time I drive it hard. The spoiler works as well, you can notice the car is well planted once you get over about 110. I drove both it and the Fiesta ST on the track, and I will say the Fiesta is the better track car. However, if you're not out to build a track car, go with the focus. Its way more comfortable on the road.

If you are considering one of these please read what I have to say about this car being an owner for 6 months. Its fast and fun but there are some major problems from a drivers standpoint. First of all there is no dead pedal, the pedal placement is off for heal and toe, the gear selector is mounted too far to the right and the throws are too long resulting in what feels like pushing the selector backwards instead of pulling it, the ride height in the seats are way too high off the ground even though you sit inside the cockpit as opposed to on top of it. The steering is quick but you have no idea what the wheels are doing when traction breaks. There is also a weird mechanical tugging that goes on when driving spirited or on a crowned road. The noise induction is way too loud and artificial sounding so much so that you will always have to look at the tach because the noise sounds the f ing same throughout the rev range. The brakes fade way too quickly for a car with this much power and speaking of power, the figures that Ford gives are f ing overboost numbers. Once you loose the overboost which lasts somewhere between 15-20 seconds you are left with a car that is still loud but not nearly as fast. The clutch take up and throttle by wire are so inconsistent you will be embarrassed at more than one intersection. Completely unacceptable for a drivers car. A for the rest of the car where do I start? Oh I know, the Ford My Touch piece of shit waste of time and money. That piece of Microsoft shit has had so many problems since new that I almost broke it with my fist out of frustration several times. My new car shouldn't piss me off that much. Ford is so cheap they use a hard shiny plastic between the soft touch stuff on the dash and the windshield and hoped people wouldn't notice I guess. That is until you can see it reflecting off the windshield all the fucking time. Speaking of hard plastics, the front doors have soft touch and rear doors use a different hard plastic. Again hoping its customers wont notice I'm guessing. The trunk absolutely sucks. The floor is raised up much higher than the regular focus to accommodate the larger spare necessary to fit the larger brakes. While it does not sound like that big of a deal, it creates a drop off down to the rear seats when folded. Overall fit and finish is decent but you can really feel the cost cutting when washing it yourself. I wanted the ST3 package to get the HIDS but the hand brake is relocated on this model due to the seat heater switches and it was digging into my knee during regular driving. Also because of the lack off dead pedal I tried to bend my knee and drive with my foot at the base of the seat, no dice, there is a stupid fucking bump forward of the seat mount and as a result there is no comfortable driving position. I know there is more but I think that's enough. The solution is a GTI. Less power but better in every other area. I got rid of the POS Ford and went back to z Germans> No regrets

I had a 2012 Ford Focus Titanium Hatch with the performance package. I couldn't believe how well it handled. I'm sure the ST is even more impressive.

Did you assholes know that Ford redesigned the fucking side mirrors in a wind tunnel, to reduce cabin noise?

I love the enthusiasm in a car review, nice job Nathan! I disagree on SYNC because that is a must have in my F150, but to each their own. Nice to know that car seats will fit.

Buying a 2013 focus tomorrow Lol, just wanted to check out, nice vid, nice car

A lot of haters here! I've driven quite a few fast cars in my life. I'm a former STi owner who had only been buying Japanese lately. When I heard about this car coming to the states I had to go take a look and after watching all the reviews (often where the reviewer is smiling and giggling most of the review) and going for a test drive I was in love. Bought it the next week. Insanely fun to drive. I get non stop compliments everywhere I go.

I agree with you on the profile, looks, and interior. When I test drove an ST I felt it was powerful for a FWD car and has a ton of torque but I couldn't pull the trigger due to one thing...at the end of the day...IT'S A FOCUS.

Keep up the good work!! Your fun personality is what makes these vids so great! I try my best to make my car reviews as fun as yours but I'm way behind you. Only 3200 subs and half the videos. Actually working on S65, Ferrari 360 Modena and a Lamborghini. My big challenge is I also do jets and other stuff so I'm juggling to much. I think need to take a vacation...AND...NOT film it for more content!! LOL SMH

Yes, Roman was supposed to drive and review the Focus ST but at the last minute Audi dropped off the new 520 HP Audi S8 at the office so Roman made a (ahhhh) executive decision and let Nathan have the ST while he took the S8. Please stay tuned for that review next week.

Recaros are like one of the best features of the car lol! I recently bought a ST3 with the carbon fiber package and all the options really make the car much more upscale and not so economy minded.

i would be scared to be in a car with this man

Your constant reving says it all...my man.

Yep, don't waste time on Recardo seats or Sync. Get the base model.

I can't wait to buy this vehicle but the 2017 Ford Focus ST (ST2). I test drove a Mazda3 Grand Touring (Manual), it also doesn't compare to the Ford Focus ST. The Mazda3 Grand Touring has 184HP/185lbsTorque (why even bother). I am now sold on buying the Ford Focus ST and I can't wait now. I also drove a few like the Civic Type R & Subaru WRX Limited, and I also wasn't impressed unlike with the Ford Focus, I was very impressed and felt secure in it. The HUGGING of the Road is just way better than the other hot hatches. I JUST LOVE THE "FORD FOCUS ST". I also want it in Yellow, or Kona Blue, or even Magnetic. Whichever 3 colors, I'll be elated with it and can't wait to drive it over and over, and for years to come.

You have got to love the Godzilla shirt. I just bought a 2016 ST1 for my daily driver and it is awesome!

For anyone who has a new Focus ST or is considering one- Get the "E-focus" lower motor mount and a tune from Unleashed Tuning. The car will launch better and your throttle response will improve a lot as well. The nice part about the E-focus mount is that it's a ford part and won't void your warranty. Most shops won't even notice that it has been changed. The tune puts this little beast over 270hp and 300 lb/ft of torque. Totally agree with this review when calling this best FWD car ever.

The lower engine mount really lets the ST down when it comes to 1/4 mile times, it has soooo much movement and is a major cause of wheel hop some ST owners are breaking into the 13's just by changing the engine mount I run consistent 14.6 passes in my ST but im trapping 101mph so theres a mid 13 pass if it would get traction

The Fusion feeds my inner adult. The Focus ST, my inner juvenile delinquent. Given my childish demeanor, the Focus ST is my choice. Thanks for watching!

Great review, as always. If only they offered it in AWD, I'd buy one in a heartbeat! PLEASE, Ford! PLEEEEEEASE!

Excellent! I test drove this car at Ford's Ecoboost Challenge and it was really fun to drive. Great balance, body roll, turn in & turn out and the sensations of driving were Awesome!

Mazdaspeed3 has great performance but is a butt-ugly car. I would get this Focus ST over it any day.

Ford Focus (1997 - 2004) ST170 Mk1 : 2.0L 170bhp RS Mk1: 2.0L 212bhp (2004-2010) ST Mk2: 2.5L 225bhp ST Mk 2.5: 2.5L 225bhp RS Mk2: 2.5L 301bhp RS 500 Mk2: 2.5L 350bhp (2010+) ST Mk3 2.0L 252bhp

I was waiting for this. Love mine!

i love torque steer, you feel the power of your car and you have to be careful with that, i love it. i hate when you feel nothing in the steering.

Nathan, you can get the sports seats in black as a no-cost option.

Every time I watch ST review I want to have one!

I just moved to Denver and let me tell you....I was BLOWN AWAY at how much slower my 180HP '03 Vibe GT is than when I am at lower altitude!

I have one, 2013, super fun car, hauls my family (5), all the options, zero problems with it. I also had a 2003 SVT, no problems cheapest car in terms of maintenance, handled great, however, LAME engine in terms of power. The ST however, totally ROCKS, and will do, 155. I am seriously looking at the RS that is coming out. But it's pretty pricey.

Glad i bought a cobalt ss turbo. You guys got that car going faster then the ST which keeps me happy knowing my 2008 is still faster then this 2013 focus.

Enjoy waiting a year and a half for it to come to the US, too. A lot of folks are going to want a hot hatch before the 2015s come out.

I think Nathan nailed it when saying this is direct to the speed 3, I agree wrx and R to price

I've never had a problem with torque steer in my ST. As long as the car is in Sport Mode the computer sorts out torque steer fairly well.

Hey, it's okay to be enthusiastic about a product you like. Now for the important question. What suction cup mount are you using on the Canon camcorder on the passenger window? Lastly, you are not alone in high praise. Motor Trend agrees, Chris Harris (UK) also agrees and a raft of other reviewers also agree.

I think you mean the cobalt gets better acceleration due to no lift shifting not so much launch control. NLS maintains boost pressure going into higher gears......so obviously the cobalt was more race inspired to have high end features like no lift shift and launch control and a transmission with a REAL limited slip differential built right in without the need for aftermarket two step programming.

i get this car and i chose this colour (sunse yellow) because its AWSOME .. there are to many silver and black cars out there .. time to get something different

Wife has a focus. I love that car except for one big downfall that i find in every small car. If you are 6'0 plus try to take a bigger car on a road trip. Went from Phoenix to Denver two weeks ago and felt the pain. Best mph on one tank was 41.4. Average for the trip was 36.9. And that's with me, my wife, 2 kids, and 60lbs worth of cargo.

I see why Doug is such a popular car reviewer.

Should have pressed the TC button once to put it in sport mode. Lessens the impact of TC and makes it much more fun and importantly quicker to 60.

EPIC COMEBACK!

I wonder how well these are selling. I know you can't find one anywhere near MSRP at dealerships.

Nothing funner then watching Nathan having fun playing! He cracks me up. I loaded up this car and over $30K ouch! I am very surprised at the MPG though. Wow GO FORD!

I hear a whistling noise when the camera is filming from the interior of the car. Wind noise? A/c noise?

I can't wait to see what Roman has to say about the extraordinary Audi S8! Keep up the good work, I watch your videos every day and like them all. Well done!

Don't mind the negative comments. You guys are awesome!!!!

Nathan, next time you go to europe ,you should drive the renault megane RS, i have a feeling that you are going to like it.

Yeah it will even if it is turbocharged the air is still less dense which would mean the turbo would have to work harder ....only a few PSI to get the same amount of air as it would at sea level.

Arent Buick going to bring Opel Astra GTC to the US only under different badge. Thats a nice hot hatch also.

Going to go look at one Wednesday. Thinking of trading my Stage 1 PT for an ST. Time to move on 2 Four Doors.

Is the suggested retail price of the Focus ST truly $23,700.00 in the USA? If so this car should sell like hot cakes. Here in the UK prices begin at roughly £22,000.00 ($36,700.00) and I think the car is great value at that price. This car will bring a smile to your face.

Nice car and as always, a great review. However, there are three things wrong with the car. 1) No AWD 2) No 2 door version 3) Cheapish materials compared to the Golf and just wait until you see the Mk VII It would be a tough decision because the price is so much lower than the Golf R, but I would spend the extra cash on the VW.

I have a silver 2013 Ford Focus ST3 and absolutely love it. Get 34-36mpg highway and then beat on it out on the country curvy roads where i am. Btw, this car can out handle a WRX and has just as much WHP. WRX loses ALOT because it is awd and gets out handled because of the computer controls the Focus ST has. Destroys a GTI hands down. Smoked a few of those before getting to 2nd gear. Interior I absolutely love and especially the myfordtouch which is glitchy at times but still awesome!

After watching the video reviews from guys opinions I respect... Carlos Lago at MT and Nathan at TFL, I decided to give the ST a chance with an actual test drive. If you're an enthusiast driver like me, that's all it will take. Imagine everything you like about the driving experience in the GTI, then turn each thing up 1 or 2 notches. That's the ST. I'm not talking about the quality of the interior/exterior, I'm talking purely the driving experience.

Nathan, at the price of the model you drove you can get a base Fusion....heck at some dealers you can get the next model up for nearly 26k...what would sway you to pick one over the other?

straight line speeds may be different from each reviewer. Some might run it to redline, others know boost tapers off in the speed 3 after 5800 RPM and short shift it

I'm currently driving a 2010 GTI but I find myself eyeballing the Focus ST all the time, might do a test drive and see how it compares.

Thats just YOUR opinion, NOT everybodys!! but YET you were here watching it !

Did you turn off traction control for the straight 0-60? If it has a sensitive tcs the torque would reduce even by just chirping the tires upon takeoff.

Dude, I have always wanted to play with a Lupo GTI! Sadly, Roman refuses to send me to Germany to test one. Great car Alex.

I was thinking of purchasing this car but, does it have road and wind noise cruising 60-75mph?

You notice the wheels are pretty much the ford fusion se wheels (with apperence pakage) but cut out at the edges

4:03 Couldn't describe this car any better 😂

Got the car and love it desent tyres are the key lower engine mount too its a different animal after that and a tune

I agree with you nathan. That focus will beat the snot out of the cvt equiped nismo juke and the boring golf R

Whatever it is...just when you look at the badge and the whole enthusiasm is evaporating in a moment ;)))

And my Vibe actually HAS TO be revved! Power comes ON at 6000 and redlines at 8200RPM. If all goes well I will be trading for a Focus ST soon!

you will fall in love with the ST :)

I don't think anyone can question that its one of the best FWD cars for sale, but the real question is if there is any reason to stick with a FWD if you're paying that much money for something intended to really be performance oriented. With typical options you're looking at a 3300lb car with 250hp that gets 32mpg for $28K. For thousands less for example, Ford has their own Mustang V6 at 3500lb with 305hp that gets 29mpg but is more purpose designed for performance and RWD.

Where is this recorded? Looks like a very nice driving road

Hope you can do a Fiesta ST 0-60 MPH Drive & Review.

Still going to wait for the new GTI w/Performance Pack - it should have no trouble keeping up with the ST but without the torque steer.

I wanted this car so bad!!!

Fuck that, I OWN an ST3 (full trim) and it's fast as Shit! Second pair of tires, factory upgrades like the lower engine mount and other Ford updates.

Great review approach. Thanks for the non-PR... I'm getting one!!!

I'm going from a 98 gt mustang to a fusion titanium , it's an upgrade but not the same, gonna miss the 5 speed and the loud roar but with a family had to cut the loss , stop putting money Into it and get something classy , fun to drive with some balls , but the ST is in the same category idk which to choose yet

Try a more exciting channel Juan. As for forced induction, (turbos and supercharges) they mitigate loss, but they do not stop it altogether. The only powerplant that has no power loss at high altitude is an electric motor.

This man is high to the sky

I wanna buy one of these so bad, i hope they sell well so i can get a used one in a coupla years.

2013/14 Ford Focus ST OR 2013/14 Subaru Impreza WRX hatch/sedan? Both are similarly priced and have similar hp points. The WRX is being remodeled for 2014. What does TFL have to say?

Stock exhaust in these cars is so quiet, I did a resonator delete and it sounds much better. Edit: I'm also about 500 ft above sea level and mine will hit 60 in about 6.

Nathan, Next time try holding a more consistent rev instead of "punching" the accelerator before you dump the clutch. Just a friendly piece of advice!

The Focus ST is a tough car to launch for sure. I have one. I have a lot of experience driving fast FWD cars though (modded Neon SRT-4, Sentra Spec V). The lower motor mount in the Focus ST is too soft and needs to be replaced to get a proper launch. The engine literally hits the firewall when shifting hard from 1-2 and 2-3 with the stock mount. $180 fix with parts and install, and made a world of difference in mine. Also, a tune can be had for these that really wakes them up for $200ish.

Well Volkswagen says on the GTI's window sticker "the original hot hatch".

is it still the best front wheel drive car he's ever tested i wonder?

How do you think it will compare to the upcoming Fiesta ST????

What do you guys think about the Veloster Turbo? I test drove one today and that was pretty fun.

Nice curb rash on the front drive wheel. Did TFL do that?

Good review. This car has yet to loose a comparison test. It's that good.

Nice review Nathan, keep it up.

For sure, they look great.

So all the previous reviews I've seen say that the car actually turns in with the rear rotating off the gas, as opposed to plowing through the corner. So when you say it needs to go in slow and come out fast, do you mean it's still understeering on entry but not on exit?

Well I'm not usually one to bring up lap times. But the Cobalt SS does about 8:20 around the Nurburgring. The GTR runs 7:18. Grip is but one of the many factors that contribute to a fast car. Cobalt may be pretty quick, but it cannot be compared to the GTR.

They do not sell Renault (or any French brand) in the United States.

When I was at the Ford proving grounds, talking with a Ford rep, in front of the Focus ST, he said it was for heat AND sound deadening. He might be wrong, because you seem to know what your talking about. As for the scene, it was an editing choice.

Great review Nathan! I really enjoy your enthusiasm. I've been thinking about getting rid of my pedestrian Chevy Cruze and I've been looking at the Focus ST

I've been waiting for this review for a LOOOOONG time...

I'm thinking about buying one i'll wait till the end of the year.