Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel. This car has been making waves, and for good reason. It combines the practicality of a diesel with the sporty feel of the ST badge. So, let's get started and see what this car is all about. Buckle up; it's going to be a thorough ride!

Overview of the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel

The Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel is not just your average family car; it's a performance-oriented machine designed for those who crave a bit of excitement in their daily drive. The "ST" stands for Sport Technologies, and Ford has ensured that this model lives up to its name. From its tuned engine to its sporty suspension and aggressive styling, the Focus ST 185 Diesel offers a compelling package for driving enthusiasts who also need the efficiency and torque of a diesel.

One of the key highlights of the Focus ST 185 Diesel is its engine. The 2.0-liter TDCi diesel engine produces 185 horsepower, which is plenty of power to make the car feel lively and responsive. More importantly, it delivers a significant amount of torque – around 400 Nm. This torque figure is crucial because it gives the car strong acceleration in various driving situations, whether you're overtaking on the highway or pulling away from a stoplight. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox that is precise and engaging, allowing drivers to fully enjoy the driving experience.

Beyond the engine, the Focus ST 185 Diesel features a sport-tuned suspension that enhances its handling capabilities. The suspension is stiffer than the standard Focus, which helps to reduce body roll in corners and improves overall stability. This means you can confidently tackle winding roads without feeling like the car is going to lose control. The steering is also sharper and more responsive, providing better feedback and making the car feel more connected to the road. To complete the sporty package, the Focus ST 185 Diesel comes with larger brakes that offer excellent stopping power, ensuring safety and confidence during spirited driving.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel truly shines. It’s not just about straight-line speed; it's about how the car feels on the road, how it responds to your inputs, and how well it balances power with control. This is where the ST 185 Diesel sets itself apart from many other cars in its class.

The 2.0-liter TDCi engine provides a punchy and responsive driving experience. The 185 horsepower might not sound like a huge number in today's world of high-performance vehicles, but it's the torque that makes the difference. With around 400 Nm of torque available from relatively low RPMs, the car pulls strongly from almost any gear. This makes overtaking and merging onto highways effortless, and it also means you don't have to constantly downshift to find the power you need. The engine is refined and smooth, with minimal diesel clatter, which adds to the overall driving pleasure.

The six-speed manual gearbox is a joy to use. The shifts are precise and the clutch is well-weighted, making it easy to drive smoothly. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine's power delivery, allowing you to make the most of the available torque. For those who prefer an automatic, there might be options available depending on the market, but the manual is generally the preferred choice for enthusiasts who want maximum engagement.

Handling is another area where the Focus ST 185 Diesel excels. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firm but not harsh ride. It strikes a good balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for both daily driving and more spirited runs. The car corners flat and confidently, with minimal body roll. The steering is sharp and responsive, providing plenty of feedback from the road. This allows you to place the car accurately and confidently in corners. The larger brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving you the confidence to push the car harder.

Interior and Comfort

Moving inside, let's talk about interior and comfort. After all, you'll be spending a lot of time here, so it's got to be a pleasant place to be. The Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel manages to blend sporty design with everyday practicality quite well.

The seats are one of the standout features of the interior. They're typically Recaro sport seats, which offer excellent support and bolstering. This means you'll be held firmly in place during spirited driving, but they're also comfortable enough for longer journeys. The seats are usually finished in a combination of leather and cloth, with the ST logo embroidered on the backrests, adding a touch of sportiness. The driving position is excellent, with plenty of adjustability in the seat and steering wheel, allowing you to find the perfect position.

The dashboard and center console are well-laid out and easy to use. The materials are generally of good quality, with soft-touch plastics in key areas. The design is modern and stylish, with sporty accents such as aluminum pedals and a unique ST gear knob. The infotainment system is usually Ford's SYNC system, which offers a range of features including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The system is generally easy to use, although some users may find it a bit laggy at times.

In terms of practicality, the Focus ST 185 Diesel offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats are comfortable enough for adults, and there's a decent amount of legroom and headroom. The trunk is also a good size, offering enough space for luggage or groceries. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, which is useful for carrying larger items.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

One of the biggest draws of the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel is its impressive fuel economy. Let's face it, guys, we all want a car that's fun to drive but doesn't break the bank at the fuel pump. This is where the diesel version of the Focus ST really shines.

Thanks to its efficient 2.0-liter TDCi engine, the Focus ST 185 Diesel can achieve excellent fuel economy figures. In real-world driving conditions, you can expect to see around 50-55 mpg on average. This is significantly better than the petrol version of the Focus ST, which typically returns around 30-35 mpg. The diesel's superior fuel economy makes it a great choice for those who do a lot of commuting or long-distance driving.

Beyond fuel economy, the Focus ST 185 Diesel also offers reasonable running costs. Diesel engines are generally known for their durability and longevity, which can translate into lower maintenance costs over the long term. The Focus ST is also a relatively common car, which means that parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Regular servicing and maintenance should be carried out according to Ford's recommended schedule to keep the car running smoothly.

However, it's worth noting that diesel cars can sometimes have higher repair costs than petrol cars. Diesel engines are more complex and have more components, which can potentially lead to more expensive repairs. Additionally, diesel cars are subject to stricter emissions regulations, which can also add to the cost of ownership. Despite these potential drawbacks, the Focus ST 185 Diesel generally offers a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and running costs.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break it down simply with the pros and cons of the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel. No car is perfect, so it’s important to weigh the good with the not-so-good before making a decision.

Pros:

• Excellent Fuel Economy: As mentioned earlier, the diesel engine offers impressive fuel economy, making it a great choice for those who do a lot of driving.
• Strong Torque: The engine delivers plenty of torque, providing strong acceleration and effortless overtaking.
• Sporty Handling: The sport-tuned suspension and sharp steering make the car fun to drive on winding roads.
• Comfortable Interior: The Recaro seats offer excellent support and comfort, even on long journeys.
• Practicality: The Focus ST 185 Diesel offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families.

Cons:

• Diesel Image: Some people may not like the image of driving a diesel car, especially with the increasing focus on electric vehicles.
• Potential Repair Costs: Diesel engines can sometimes have higher repair costs than petrol engines.
• Emissions Regulations: Diesel cars are subject to stricter emissions regulations, which can add to the cost of ownership.
• Noise: Although the engine is refined, it can still be a bit noisy at times, especially at low speeds.
• Availability: Depending on your market, the Focus ST 185 Diesel may not be readily available.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel? Is it worth buying? Well, it depends on what you're looking for in a car.

If you're after a car that's fun to drive, offers excellent fuel economy, and is practical enough for everyday use, then the Focus ST 185 Diesel is definitely worth considering. It combines the best of both worlds – the sporty feel of the ST badge with the efficiency and torque of a diesel engine. The car handles well, offers plenty of performance, and is comfortable enough for long journeys.

However, if you're someone who prioritizes outright performance and doesn't mind sacrificing fuel economy, then you might be better off with the petrol version of the Focus ST or another hot hatch. The diesel engine, while torquey, doesn't offer the same high-revving excitement as a petrol engine. Additionally, if you're concerned about the image of driving a diesel car or potential repair costs, then you might want to look elsewhere.

Overall, the Ford Focus ST 185 Diesel is a well-rounded car that offers a lot of value for money. It's a great choice for those who want a sporty and practical car that's also efficient and affordable to run. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision, and consider your own individual needs and preferences.