The Los Angeles Auto Show marks the U.S. auto show circuit debut for the racing-oriented Focus Focus ST-R, which had previously been shown only in Europe at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and the non-traditional SEMA show earlier this month.
The Focus ST-R boasts the same basic platform and 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine as the Focus ST but was created in collaboration with race teams around the world that have already built and fielded successful Focus race cars.
Modifications from the standard car include AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers, Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads. A combination of Anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires improve style as well as traction.
Inside, the gutted interior features an FIA-regulation roll cage, a Recaro racing seat, a Ford Racing six-point safety harness and a fire suppression system.
Ford says the ST-R is so race-ready that all the new owners will need to do is equip the car with communications equipment of their choosing and cover the car with their team sponsors. The turnkey Focus ST-R is intended to provide teams and wealthy enthusiasts an option to buy a ready-to-go competitive racecar that can compete in many events, including Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series.
In a reversal of the usual state of affairs, the Focus ST-R will be available for North American consumers first before eventually making its way to Europe. In the U.S., the car is expected to be priced from $99,000.
For those of us in North America, the Focus ST-R continues a long line of turnkey race cars from Ford, including the Mustang FR500C, Mustang FR500S, Mustang Cobra Jet, Boss 302R and Boss 302S.
While few will likely have the cash, time or skills to field a Focus ST-R of their own, the engineers at Ford promise that all Foci owners will benefit from the car’s existence as a wide range of Ford Racing parts will be available around the world as a result.
