Ford Focus ST (2012-2018) review

Value was always an ST forte, but very few people bought the entry-level, £22k version, so Ford now only offers the smarter ST2 and ST3 variants.

The latter gets Ford’s swish new Sync 2 touchscreen media system but, at nearly £28,000, it’s priced against very tough competition. The brand new Renault Megane RS has another 30bhp, much sharper handling and costs £500 less. The Hyundai i30N Performance is also 30bhp healthier, has a massive warranty, tons of equipment and is priced similarly. Good job Ford dealers are known for their discounts: insist on a big 'un, or an irresistible lease deal, if you're choosing this over newer, sharper competitors.

When it comes to running costs, Ford claims 41.5mpg for the petrol ST and 67.3mpg for the diesel ST. We know most figures like this can be taken with a pinch of salt, and if you thrash the petrol you'll be looking at mid-20s.