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Bentley Continental GT3

Bentley introduced today at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed the new Continental GT3, a racing car that will explore the extreme potential of the Continental GT. The new Bentley is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 developing up to 600 bhp. All that power is delivered to the rear wheels via a carbon fibre propshaft to an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox with a limited slip differential, mounted as a transaxle for optimised weight distribution.

Gear actuations are made via a pneumatic shift system, controlled by paddles mounted to the steering wheel. The standard air springs featured on the luxurious Continental GT were replaced by a double wishbone suspension configuration front and rear, fitted with four-way adjustable racing dampers.

The Bentley Continental GT is fitted with a new steering system that features hydraulic power-assistance, while braking is via ventilated iron discs combined with six-piston calipers on the front and four-piston calipers on the rear.

Moreover, the new racing car received an impressive aerodynamic package consisting of a new front bumper, redesigned hood with large air intakes, a big carbon fiber rear wing that provides rear downforce and stability, as well as a rear air diffuser.

If you liked the interior seen on the Continental GT you’d better forget about that as the Continental GT3 has no leather and wood interior trim, while all the electrical systems and advanced refinement materials were removed.

As a result, the Continental GT3 weighs in under its target of 1300 kg. Bentley will start its programme of developmental track work of the new Continental GT3 and once the FIA homologation is completed the new racing car will start competing in the FIA Blancpain Series in 2014.

PRESS RELEASE

Bentley Continental GT3 Racecar

Bentley debuted the Continental GT3 race car at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed, unveiling a racing machine set to explore the extreme potential of Bentley's iconic Grand Tourer, the Continental GT. Member of the Board for Engineering, Rolf Frech, comments: "The Continental GT3 exploits the incredible performance beneath the skin of every Continental GT. We've removed over 1000 kilograms of weight, reconfigured our 4.0-litre V8 to produce 600 bhp in race specification, and developed a comprehensive aerodynamic package to ensure that we perform competitively. We are now looking forward to getting the car on the track and proving its potential."

The Bentley Continental GT3 is powered by a race-prepared and dry-sump version of Bentley's powerful but efficient 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, with many components carried over from the road-going engine. Developing up to 600 bhp in unrestricted race configuration via a motorsport engine management system, the V8 provides the GT3 with highly competitive power in a compact and lightweight package that's perfect for racing. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a carbon fibre propshaft to an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox with a limited slip differential, mounted as a transaxle for optimised weight distribution. Gear actuations are completed via a pneumatic shift system, controlled by paddles mounted to the steering wheel.

A double wishbone suspension configuration front and rear, fitted with four-way adjustable racing dampers, replaces the standard road-car air springs. The steering system features hydraulic power-assistance, while braking is via ventilated iron discs combined with six-piston calipers on the front and four-piston calipers on the rear.

The exterior of the car features a comprehensive aerodynamic package, to maximise downforce with optimised drag. A top-mounted carbon fibre rear wing provides rear downforce and stability, while a carbon fibre splitter balances the aerodynamic forces at the front of the car. Revisions have been made to the bonnet, bumpers, fenders and sills in order to optimise the car's drag coefficient and to assist with engine cooling.

With the removal of the leather and wood interior trim, the production electrical systems and advanced refinement materials that make the Continental GT such a capable Grand Tourer, the Bentley Continental GT3 weighs in under its target of 1300 kg. Despite the race-specification, the GT3 remains a hand-crafted Bentley, with the steering wheel, door pulls and seat all hand-trimmed and stitched by Bentley craftspeople at Crewe.

The design has been completed by a specialist team of engineers from Bentley Motors supported by the Continental GT3 Technical Partner, M-Sport Ltd. Managed from a dedicated motorsport facility base at Bentley's Crewe factory, an additional design office was created at M-Sport for the detail design stages and build of the first car.

The Bentley Continental GT3 now starts its programme of developmental track work, focussing on optimising the car's performance based on simulations and refining the car's abilities. Once homologation with the FIA has been completed, the GT3 will enter its first development races before starting full competition in the FIA Blancpain Series in 2014.

Bentley Continental GT3 Specifications

Engine: 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, repositioned to the rear of the engine bay, Cosworth engine management system
Power: Approx. 600 bhp derestricted
Oil System: Dry sump
Transmission: Rear wheel drive, Xtrac six-speed sequential transaxle gearbox, racing clutch, steering wheel mounted paddle operated pneumatic gear shift
Drivetrain: Carbon fibre propshaft, limited slip differential
Suspension: Double wishbone suspension front and rear, four-way adjustable racing dampers
Steering: Hydraulic power-assisted steering
Brakes: Ventilated iron disc brakes front and rear, Brembo six-piston front calipers, four-piston rear calipers, driver-adjustable brake bias
Safety: FIA-specification steel roll cage, Sparco six-point FIA safety harness, onboard fire extinguisher, onboard pneumatic jack system.
Fuel System: FIA-specification racing fuel cell
Electronics: Race-specification ABS and traction control. Lightweight race battery.
Wheels: OZ Racing 18" x 13" rims
Tyres: 310 / 710 R18
Aerodynamics: Carbon fibre front splitter, rear wing and body panels. Lightweight, aerodynamically-optimised bumpers, bonnet, sills and fenders
Length: 4950 mm
Width: 2030 mm
Height: 1350 mm
Weight: <1300 kg
Weight Distribution: 52 : 48

Topics: bentley, bentley continental, gt3, goodwood festival of speed

2010 Audi R8 GT

This is the Audi R8 GT, a hardcore version of the popular German sports car! What is so special about this new version of the R8? Well, first of all we have a weight reduction of 100 kilograms (220.46 lb), which means the car weighs only 1,525 kilograms (3,362.05 lb).

The weight reduction was obtained using thinner glass, the bulkhead between the passenger cell and engine compartment, as well as the window in the rear hatch are made of strong, lightweight polycarbonate (these modifications brought a weight reduction of nine kilograms or 19.84 lb.

The new rear wing saved another 1.2 kilograms (2.65 lb), thinner sheet metal and additional cutouts shaved 2.6 kilograms (5.73 lb). The rear hatch is now made using carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) (6.6 kilograms or 14.55 lb. The rear bumper and sideblades using the same carbon fiber-reinforced plastic save another 5.2 and 1.5 kilograms (11.46 and 3.31 lb).

Under the hood we find the same V10 engine found on the R8 V10 5.2 Quattro but capable to develop 560 hp or 412 kW and 540 Nm (398.28 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm. With these numbers the car can hit 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in 10.8 seconds while the top speed is limited to 320 km/h (198.84 mph).

Price of the car: €193,000!

Regarding the design, the car features numerous modifications such as matt titanium gray air intakes, matt black grille, the splitter under the bumper has a double lip and is made of carbon and curved flics at the corners of the nose in order to increase the downforce.

Also, the car offers standard LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions. The sideblades are made of matte carbon, the same material used for the reduced-size housing of the side mirrors.

The rear of the car features a new fixed wing made using matte carbon, a larger diffuser made of carbon fiber composite, new tail lights using LED technology which now have dark housings with panes of clear glass.

Also, we have new, larger round tailpipes. The design is completed by the 19-inch wheels featuring an exclusive five twin-spoke Y design in a titanium-look finish. The front fenders feature sport “GT” badges. The German manufacturer offers the Audi R8 GT in four body colors: Samoa Orange metallic, Suzuka Gray metallic, Ice Silver metallic and Phantom Black pearl effect.

PRESS RELEASE

The Audi R8 GT: Extreme lightweight construction and tremendous performance

• Limited-production, top-of-the-line version of the high-performance sports car
• 100 kilograms lighter, body parts in carbon
• V10 FSI with 412 kW (560 hp), 0 – 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds

Now even more powerful, lighter and faster: Audi presents a limited-production version of it R8 high-performance sports car, the R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp); vehicle weight has been reduced by roughly 100 kilograms (220.46 lb). The R8 GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph).

The R8 high-performance sports car has been a winner from the very beginning. This applies to both the production models, winners of the "World Performance Car" Award in 2008 (R8) and in 2010 (R8 V10), and to the race car, the R8 LMS, which won 23 races in its first season and claimed three championships. The genes of the race version are now coming to the street – in the R8 GT. The exclusive series is limited to 333 units. Each R8 GT has a badge with its production number on the shift lever knob.

Consistent use of lightweight construction: 100 kilograms (220.46 lb) trimmed
The production R8 5.2 FSI quattro is already a shining example of the Audi's lightweight construction philosophy. Its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body weighs only 210 kilograms (462.97 lb). The aluminum body panels are joined to the frame of extruded profiles and cast nodes by means of positive and friction connections. The engine frame is made of ultra lightweight magnesium.

The ASF body is largely hand-built at the Neckarsulm plant in a complex manufacturing process. The extremely high strength of the body is the basis for the high-performance sports car's precise handling, and it also offers good vibration comfort and first-rate crash safety.

Thanks to the ASF body, the production R8 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,625 kilograms (3,582.51 lb) – with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and optional R tronic transmission. This made it all the more difficult for the engineers to once again achieve substantial weight savings. They took an elaborate approach involving every aspect of the vehicle, and in the end the scales came to rest at 1,525 kilograms (3,362.05 lb).

The windshield of the R8 GT is made of thinner glass; the bulkhead between the passenger cell and engine compartment, as well as the window in the rear hatch are made of strong, lightweight polycarbonate. These three modifications saved nine kilograms (19.84 lb). The fixed rear wing is good for an additional 1.2 kilograms (2.65 lb); thinner sheet metal and additional cutouts shaved 2.6 kilograms (5.73 lb) from the aluminum hatch over the 100 liter (3.53 cu ft) luggage compartment at the front of the car.

The long rear hatch is made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – an advantage of 6.6 kilograms (14.55 lb). The rear bumper and the sideblades of this same material save an additional 5.2 and 1.5 kilograms (11.46 and 3.31 lb), respectively. With its minimal weight and extremely high strength, CFRP is the ideal material for a high-performance sports car, and Audi has broad-based expertise in its use.

The engineers also fought to shave every possible gram of weight from the technical components of R8. They shaved one kilogram (2.20 lb) from the power brake system, four kilograms (8.82 lb) from the aluminum caps of the brake discs and 9.4 kilograms (20.72 lb) from the battery. The engineers also found 2.3 kilograms (5.07 lb) in the air intake module and 2.8 kilograms (6.17 lb) in the insulation of the engine compartment.

The interior also harbored substantial weight-savings potential. The new, lightweight carpeting accounts for 7.9 kilograms (17.42 lb); the bucket seats with a chassis of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) account for 31.5 kilograms (69.45 lb). Numerous additional detailed measures targeted the interior, the exterior and the technology, such as higher-grade, lighter steel for the exhaust system's tailpipes.

Even sharper and more effective: the design

The design of the Audi R8 GT is the expression of concentrated power – a beautiful, technical sculpture measuring 4.43 meters (14.53 ft) long, 1.93 meters (6.33 ft) wide and only 1.24 meters (4.04 ft) high. The exterior underwent numerous modifications that further sharpened the appearance. Many of them also reduce the weight and enhance the aerodynamics. The R8 GT produces even more downforce when driven fast than the production model – without any increase in the Cd value (0.36) or frontal area (1.99 m2) (21.42 sq ft).

The frame of the single-frame grille, its struts and the slats in the air intakes are finished in matt titanium gray; the grille is painted matt black. The splitter under the bumper has a double lip and is made of carbon. Slender, curved flics at the corners of the nose increase the downforce on the front axle and are also made of a carbon fiber composite.

One highlight of the R8 GT are the standard LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions. They produce bright, homogeneous light, have a long service life and low energy consumption. The headlights also have an attractive and distinctive appearance. The daytime running lights each comprise 24 LEDs and appear as a continuous band. The reflectors are reminiscent of open mussel shells.

The defining element of the side view are the sideblades, which direct air to the engine and in the R8 GT are also made of matte carbon. The same material is used for the reduced-size housing of the side mirrors, which are mounted on an aluminum base. The 19-inch wheels feature an exclusive five twin-spoke Y design in a titanium-look finish. The front fenders sport "GT" badges.

The modifications to the rear of the car are particularly apparent, beginning with the fixed wing of matte carbon. The ventilation louvers on both sides of the rear hatch and the CFRP bumper, which integrates the large, round tailpipes and vents for the wheel wells, have been redesigned. The larger diffuser is made of carbon fiber composite; the license plate bezel and the wide slats at the rear are in matte titanium gray. The tail lights, which also use LED technology, have dark housings with panes of clear glass.

Audi offers the R8 GT in a choice of four body colors: Samoa Orange metallic, Suzuka Gray metallic, Ice Silver metallic and Phantom Black pearl effect.

Breathtakingly powerful: the 412 kW (560 hp) 5.2 FSI

The modified V10, whose cylinder head covers are painted red, gives the Audi R8 GT breathtaking performance. The R8 GT sprints from a standing start to highway speed in 3.6 seconds, and from zero to 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in 10.8 seconds. And the thrust does not let up until the top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph) is reached.

Changes to the engine electronics coaxed an additional 26 kW from the ten-cylinder, which now produces 412 kW (560 hp) from a displacement of 5,204 cc. The torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398.28 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, 10 Nm (7.38 lb-ft) more than in the production version. The V10 has a specific power output of 79.2 kW (107.6 hp) per liter displacement. Its power-to-weight ratio is 3.70 kilograms (8.16 lb) per kW or 2.72 kilograms (6.00 lb) per hp. The engine redlines at 8,700 rpm.

The long-stroke engine (bore x stroke 84.5 x 92.8 millimeters [3.33 x 3.65 in]), which is hand-built at the factory in Györ, Hungary, features a crankcase made of a aluminum-silicon alloy that is both lightweight and very strong. A bedplate – a frame for the crankshaft bearing bridges – further enhances its rigidity. The complete engine weighs only 258 kilograms (568.79 lb). It is characterized by a cylinder angle of 90 degrees and dry-sump lubrication, which uses a highly efficient oil pump module. Both solutions lower the center of gravity and thus improve driving dynamics.

The crankshaft is designed as a common pin shaft. The connecting rods of the opposing pistons engage a common crankpin, resulting in alternating firing intervals of 54 and 90 degrees. This unique rhythm gives the V10 its fascinating sound – a grand, technical music very much like that in racing. Two flaps in the exhaust system modulate its volume and tone as a function of load and engine speed.

The normally aspirated engine consumes an average of 13.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (17.17 US mpg) – very good fuel economy given the tremendous power. The FSI gasoline direct injection system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers at up to 120 bar of pressure. The turbulent mixture cools the cylinder walls, enabling a compression ratio of 12.5:1. A variable intake manifold and the continuous adjustment of the chain-driven camshafts ensure that the combustion chambers are fully filled. Flaps in the intake ports facilitate the formation of the mixture by inducing a tumbling motion in the inflowing air.

The drivetrain: uncompromising traction
Gear changes in the R8 GT are handled by the R tronic sequential manual transmission. The electrohydraulic clutch and switching unit receive their commands electronically. It changes its six gears much faster than a skilled driver could – within a tenth of a second at high load and engine speed.

The electronic management system offers an automatic mode with the Sport and Normal characteristics, and two manual levels. It is controlled using the short gear selector lever on the center tunnel and two paddles on the steering wheel. Maximum thrust when starting is ensured by Launch Control – a program that manages full acceleration with high engine speed and minimum wheel slip when starting.

quattro permanent all-wheel drive is the ideal technology for a high-performance sports car. The central viscous coupling located at the front differential sends 15 percent of the power to the front axle and 85 percent to the rear axle during normal driving. This split harmonizes perfectly with the Audi R8 GT's 43:57 percent weight distribution. The coupling sends as much as 30 percent of the power to the front wheels within milliseconds, if necessary. A mechanical locking differential at the rear axle further improves traction. It provides up to 25 percent lockup when accelerating and up to 40 percent on the overrun.

Chassis even tauter and more precise

The Audi R8 GT high-performance sports car is a driving machine with breathtaking lateral acceleration and lightning-fast, nearly instantaneous reactions. Its engine is mid-mounted close to the vertical axis; its mass is almost negligible during fast direction changes. The R8 GT is dynamic, precise and stable in almost every situation.

The chassis follows the classic racing design – double wishbones made of aluminum locate the wheels. The hydraulic, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering has a direct 16.3:1 ratio and connects the driver closely and precisely with the road. A manually adjustable coilover suspension, which lowers the body by as much as 10 millimeters (0.39 in), is standard. Higher front and rear wheel camber rates make the handling a tick more agile than with the standard model.

The 19-inch forged wheels are 8.5 J x 19 up front and 11 J x 19 at the rear, and are shod with size 235/35 and 295/30 tires, respectively. Audi will mount 305/30 tires together with optional wheels on the rear axle upon request. Cup tires, which offer the ultimate in performance on dry roads, are available for racing enthusiasts.

Audi mounts internally ventilated, carbon fiber ceramic brake disks standard. They are extremely durable and abrasion-resistant as well as particularly lightweight. Together they weigh nine kilograms (19.84 lb) less than their steel counterparts of the same size. They measure 380 millimeters (14.96 in) in diameter up front and 356 millimeters (14.02 in) at the rear. The friction rings are bolted to the stainless steel caps via elastic elements. Red anodized aluminum brake calipers – with six pistons up front – are exclusive to the R8 GT.

The ESP stabilization program has been specially tuned to the R8 GT and can be switched into a Sport mode at the push of a button to allow spectacular, but safe, oversteer when accelerating out of a corner. The driver can deactivate the system entirely for a trip to the race track.

Exclusive and dynamic: interior and equipment
At Audi, reducing weight means increasing performance and efficiency, but not sacrifice. The Audi R8 GT, which Audi sells in Germany for €193,000, comes with an automatic climate control system and power windows, a navigation system with MMI operating logic and a powerful sound system. A 465 watt, ten-channel Bang & Olufsen sound system, a CD changer and the Audi Music Interface are available as options. As always with Audi, the interior shows loving attention to detail. Rich materials spoil the occupants with a fine look and feel.

The ergonomic interior is adorned in sporty black and dark gray. The steering wheel, the headliner, the roof posts, the knee pad, the parking brake lever and the bucket seats are covered with Alcantara accented with contrasting stitching. A synthetic sharkskin-look material that feels slightly rough to the touch is applied to the bulkhead, the door liners, the instrument cowl and the dashboard. The "monoposto" – the arch in the cockpit – is made of matt carbon.

The instrument cluster features white dials with "R8 GT" badges. The newly designed selector lever is made of CFRP and aluminum; the center tunnel and the door liners sport decorative inlays in the body color. The door sills feature trims of matt aluminum decorated with the "R8 GT" logo.

A number of exclusive features are available as options for the R8 GT. Exterior options include two alternative wheels, a body-color front splitter and a CFRP engine compartment lining. Carbon elements on the doors, the tunnel, in the cockpit and on the instrument panel are available as interior options. Others include a multifunction leather steering wheel, seat belts in red, orange or gray, floor mats with the "R8 GT" logo and CFRP door sill trims illuminated in red. If desired, Audi will fit seats with carbon frames, which are somewhat lighter than the CFRP shells. The Alcantara seat covers are optionally available with an embroidered "R8 GT" logo.

A race package is available for racing enthusiasts. It includes a bolt-in roll bar in red or black, which has both road and type approval, as well as road-approved four-point belts in red or black, a fire extinguisher and a kill switch for the battery. An optional front bar module for motorsports evens includes a rotary lock for the four-point seatbelt and turns the roll bar into a full cage. Buyers looking for more comfort and convenience can choose cell phone preparation with an innovative belt microphone. Audi also offers a full leather package, control elements in leather with contrasting stitching and a cruise control system as options. The parking aid is included with the standard equipment.

Topics: audi, audi r8 gt, coupe

Ford Focus ST

The 2015 Ford Focus ST Facelift was officially unveiled at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom. As expected, the new model carries the same engine found on the current version, which means that under the hood there is a 2.0-liter EcoBoost with turbocharging that delivers 252 hp at 5,500 rpm and 270 lb-ft (366 Nm) of torque.

The engine pushes the Focus ST Facelift from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds, while fuel consumption is just 4.4 l/100 km (64.2 UK mpg). What’s more interesting is that the 2015 Focus ST Facelift also gets a 2.0-liter TDCi diesel engine that generates 183 hp.

The diesel-powered Focus ST accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds, while fuel consumption is just 6.8 l/100 km (41.5 UK mpg). Both models offer Auto-Start-Stop for the first time and use a six-speed manual transmission.

Regarding the design, the 2015 Ford Focus ST Facelift comes with redesigned front and rear fascias, new standard LED signature lightning, redesigned headlamps, black lamp bezels, rectangular foglamps as well as a new dynamically sculpted bonnet.

In addition, we find body-coloured side sills and rear air diffuser, a rear roof spoiler but also new twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes. The design is completed by the new 19-inch ST Design alloy wheels, which are offered as an option.

The 2015 Focus ST Facelift also introduces a new dark grey exterior paint colour called Stealth but also the Deep Impact Blue that join the current Tangerine Scream, Frozen White, Panther Black, Smoke Storm and Race Red. Interior was redesigned too and comes with significantly fewer buttons, but also with an additional bank of three gauges located on the instrument binnacle that displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information.

The steering wheel was redesigned too and now features a flat bottom with soft-feel leather covered rim. Moreover, we find a satin chrome-topped gear level, ST pedals, satin chrome door grab handles, illuminated aluminum scuff plates and sports seats developed by Ford and Recaro.

According to Ford, the 2015 Focus ST Facelift will be offered in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature grey/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colours (Tangerine Scream; Performance Blue; Smoke Storm or Race Red); ST3 seats have a full charcoal black leather finish.

Ford’s redesigned Focus ST arrives with advanced technology such as the Ford SYNC 2 connectivity system, Adaptive Front Lightning, and the Active City Stop collision that is now operative at speeds of up to 31 mph or 50 km/h.

PRESS RELEASE

Ford Focus ST Facelift

The new Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed, U.K. - the ideal location to showcase the speed and enhanced driving dynamics of the global performance car.

The most advanced Ford Focus ST yet offers new chassis control technologies, tuned suspension and steering, and bespoke tyre specification that ensure an even more responsive, balanced and refined driving experience. And for the first time, it will be offered with the choice of two powerful engines - one petrol and one diesel.

The first diesel Ford Focus ST takes day-to-day usability and sportiness to a new level by delivering the most fuel efficient and lowest CO2 Ford performance car ever; 185 PS 2.0 litre TDCi achieves 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds, 4.4 l/100 km (64.2 mpg), and 114 g/km CO2.

For customers who prefer petrol, the 250 PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.5 seconds, fuel efficiency of 6.8 l/100 km (41.5 mpg), and 158 g/km CO2. Both models offer Auto-Start-Stop for the first time that improves the EcoBoost version's fuel efficiency by 6 per cent and help make it the most fuel-efficient petrol Focus ST ever.

"The new Focus ST delivers an even more sophisticated balance of performance, driving dynamics, refinement and style - the core of Ford's Sports Technologies DNA," said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. "Even more enjoyable and rewarding to drive and with the choice of diesel power for the first time, the new Focus ST is in a class of its own."

The Ford Focus ST also will benefit from technology and craftsmanship first revealed earlier this year for the new Ford Focus - the world's best-selling global nameplate. The sporty and aggressive new five-door and wagon models will offer class-leading driver assistance technologies and connectivity features including the SYNC 2 in-car connectivity system.

Ford has sold more than 140,000 Focus ST models in 40 countries worldwide since the car was first launched in 2002.

Enhanced driving dynamics

Ford Team RS, the award-winning European arm of Ford's Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the number one objective for the new Focus ST.

The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier new shock absorber tuning front and rear. In combination with the model-specific anti-roll bars and rear springs from the previous generation ST, these enhancements deliver an even sharper dynamic performance.

The calibration of the Electronic Power Assisted Steering and electronic vehicle control systems also has been revised to meet the specific sporting requirements of the new Focus ST.

These changes deliver:

A new Electronic Transitional Stability function in the advanced three-stage Electronic Stability Programme. This senses vehicle stability and driver inputs, intervening as required to maintain optimal precision and control during rapid changes of direction at speed - for example in a lane-change situation
Revised Electronic Torque Vectoring Control settings that further optimise wheel torque distribution, maximising traction through corners and increasing agility
Power delivery refinement under hard acceleration - particularly front wheel traction and gear shift quality - is also assisted by engine mounts engineered specifically to accommodate the performance of the new Focus ST. Additionally, Ford worked with Michelin to develop a new 19-inch tyre that complements the driving dynamics, especially maximising lateral grip.

"Ford has long enjoyed a reputation for producing performance hatchbacks with superb driving dynamics and the new Focus ST more than lives up to that pedigree," Bakaj added. "The engineering enhancements to the suspension, steering and electronic control systems deliver greater responsiveness, agility, precision and an exhilarating driving experience - whichever powertrain you choose."

Power of choice

The new 185 PS 2.0-litre diesel engine that debuts in the new Ford Focus ST has been optimised to deliver ST performance and character alongside fuel efficiency and everyday practicality.

The increased power output of the Focus ST 2.0-litre TDCi - a 23 per cent gain over the 150 PS 2.0-litre engine in the new Focus range - is achieved by electronic calibration, a revised air intake system and a new sports-tuned exhaust.

Peak power is developed at 3,500 rpm and there is 400 Nm of torque available from 2,000-2,750 rpm, enabling the new Focus ST diesel to achieve a maximum speed of 217 km/h (135 mph). The torque output enables impressive in-gear acceleration and strong performance at low rpm. In 6th gear, acceleration from 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) takes just 9.7 seconds in sixth gear, the combination of a shorter ratio and the increased power enabling the Focus ST to outpace the 150 PS Focus by 2.2 seconds.

Ford's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing technology, and high-pressure direct-injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak power is available at 5,500 rpm, 360 Nm of torque is available from 2,000-4,500 rpm, and maximum speed is 248 km/h (154 mph).

Both engines use a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shift. The gear ratios - exclusive to ST and matched individually to each engine - deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed.

Powerful appearance

The new Ford Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted bonnet; slimmer headlamps and rectangular foglamps.

The sports bodykit also includes body coloured side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimised for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes.

Black lamp bezels, ST badging and new 19-inch ST Design alloy wheels - that are available as an option - complete the look.

"Focus ST has proved very popular with Ford's sporty customers and the new model takes that to an even more striking and dramatic level," said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. "The signature honeycomb upper grille has been reproportioned, there are new rectangular fog lamps in the outer apertures, and the lower fascia offers a much sharper definition and profile. At the rear, the width of the car is emphasised by a new full-width graphic."

A new dark grey exterior paint colour called Stealth is introduced exclusively to the Focus ST. Deep Impact Blue also is new to the range that includes Tangerine Scream, Frozen White, Panther Black and Race Red.

Cockpit-style cabin

Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout that also is simpler, with a clearer visual connection between the key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin.

An additional bank of three gauges - an ST hallmark - is situated on the instrument binnacle and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim; a satin chrome-topped gear lever; and ST pedals deliver the interior that ST drivers expect.

Satin chrome door grab handles and illuminated aluminium scuff plates add extra touches of refinement, and sports seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, and also are comfortable for every day driving.

The new Ford Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature grey/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colours (Tangerine Scream; Performance Blue; Smoke Storm or Race Red); ST3 seats have a full charcoal black leather finish.

Advanced technologies

Driver assistance, convenience and connectivity technologies that will be introduced for the first time include the Ford SYNC 2 connectivity system. SYNC 2 offers access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones using class-leading voice control and a high-definition, 8-inch colour touchscreen that displays the ST logo on start-up.

Adaptive Front Lighting, available for the first time on the Focus ST, adjusts the intensity and angle of the Bi-Xenon HID headlamp beams according to vehicle speed, steering angle and distance to objects to provide optimal illumination. Cross Traffic Alert also is a new addition for Focus ST, and warns drivers reversing from parking spaces if other vehicles are about to cross their path.

Ford's enhanced Active City Stop collision avoidance system - now operative at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph) - readies the brakes if a potential impact is detected and - if the driver does not respond - will automatically apply the brakes. Lane Keeping Aid applies steering torque to guide the Focus ST back in to lane if drifting is detected.

Available to order in Europe from autumn 2014, the first new Ford Focus ST models are scheduled to be in dealerships from early 2015.

Topics: ford, ford focus st, facelift, diesel