For now, the hot hatch stays true to its roots.
The Ford Focus is gone in America, and the RSS is gone everywhere. Many petrolheads are interested to know if the Focus ST is still available in different markets and if it will get its all-wheel drive system. The RS was a fast hatchback, and it received high praises for its powertrain and drivetrain. These rumors have been put to rest by Stefan Muenzinger (head of Ford Performance Europe).
Ford will not be changing their front-wheel drive hot hatch formula, regardless of whether they like it or not. Muenzinger stated that there is no plan for an all-wheel drive ST. This would be the RS proposition. The ST features a modified version of the turbocharged 2.3 liter engine from the RS, putting out more than 270 horsepower (200 kilowatts). The ST is the most powerful ST ever. However, the rear wheels will not be driven.
Muenzinger touted the clever electronically-controlled mechanical limited-slip differential as one of the big reasons for kicking all-wheel-drive complacency. He stated that the grip levels of the ST and RS are similar in dry conditions. The ST will be equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport tires that have been specially designed for front-wheel drive. This, along with other systems, could make it one of the most versatile front-wheel-drive vehicles on the market.
This puts to rest the all-wheel drive rumor mill, but rumors about the next ST getting hybridity are still rife. Although Muenzinger acknowledged that he was not allowed to discuss future model programs, he said that hybrid systems are inevitable. It is not clear when it will be integrated into the ST model.
Although details were scarce, it seems that hybrid technology has continued to trickle down from hypercars. Muenzinger saw hybrid and electric power as the way forward in European markets where vehicle fleets were limited to CO2 consumption.