Let's dive deep into the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185! If you're reading this, you're probably considering getting one, or maybe you're just curious about what this hot hatch has to offer. Either way, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from performance and handling to fuel economy and reliability. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 Special?

The Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 isn't your average family hatchback; it's the performance-oriented version that injects a serious dose of fun into your daily drive. The "ST" stands for Sport Technologies, and that's exactly what you get. This car is designed to be engaging, responsive, and just plain enjoyable to drive. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine that cranks out 185 horsepower and a hefty 400 Nm of torque. That's enough to propel this thing from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.1 seconds, which is pretty respectable for a diesel. But it's not just about straight-line speed; the Focus ST also boasts a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a sharp steering system that make it a blast to throw around corners.

One of the standout features of the Focus ST is its versatility. It's practical enough to use as a daily driver, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. But when you want to have some fun, it transforms into a proper sports car. The Recaro seats hug you in place, the steering wheel feels perfect in your hands, and the engine responds instantly to your inputs. It's a car that encourages you to take the long way home, just for the sake of driving.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

The heart of the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 is, of course, its engine. The 2.0-liter TDCi unit delivers a strong punch of torque from low down in the rev range, which means you don't have to work it hard to get moving. This makes it incredibly flexible in everyday driving situations. Whether you're overtaking on the highway or navigating city streets, there's always plenty of power on tap. The six-speed manual gearbox is slick and precise, with a short throw that makes shifting gears a pleasure. The clutch is also nicely weighted, making it easy to modulate and avoid stalling.

But the Focus ST is about more than just raw power. The suspension has been stiffened and lowered compared to the standard Focus, which gives it a much more planted feel on the road. The steering is also quicker and more direct, allowing you to place the car exactly where you want it. The result is a car that feels agile, responsive, and confidence-inspiring. It's not the most comfortable car on rough roads, but the trade-off is well worth it for the improved handling. The electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) helps to control wheel spin and improve traction, especially when accelerating out of corners. This allows you to put the power down more effectively and maintain momentum.

In summary, the Focus ST is a joy to drive. It's fast, fun, and engaging, with a chassis that encourages you to push it to its limits. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a casual driver, you'll appreciate the way this car handles.

Fuel Economy: Can You Live With It?

Okay, let's talk about fuel economy. After all, it's a diesel, so it should be pretty good, right? Well, the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 doesn't disappoint in this area. Officially, it's rated at around 64.2 mpg on the combined cycle, but in real-world driving, you can expect to see figures in the high 40s to low 50s. That's still pretty impressive for a car with this level of performance.

Of course, your actual fuel economy will depend on how you drive. If you spend most of your time with your foot to the floor, you're not going to see those kinds of numbers. But if you drive reasonably sensibly, you should be able to achieve decent fuel economy without sacrificing too much fun. The engine is also relatively quiet and refined, which makes it a pleasant companion on long journeys. One thing to keep in mind is that the Focus ST has a relatively small fuel tank, so you may find yourself filling up more often than you'd like. But overall, the fuel economy is one of the strengths of this car.

Reliability: What Are the Common Issues?

Reliability is always a concern when buying a used car, so let's take a look at some of the common issues that have been reported with the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185. Overall, the Focus ST is a fairly reliable car, but there are a few things to watch out for.

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Like many modern diesels, the Focus ST is fitted with a DPF, which is designed to trap soot particles and reduce emissions. However, if you mainly do short journeys at low speeds, the DPF can become clogged, which can lead to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. To avoid this, it's important to take the car for a longer drive at least once a week to allow the DPF to regenerate.
• Dual-Mass Flywheel (DMF): The DMF is another common source of problems on diesel cars. It's designed to absorb vibrations from the engine and make the car smoother to drive. However, it can wear out over time, which can lead to a rattling noise and difficulty changing gears. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to get the DMF checked out as soon as possible.
• Injectors: The fuel injectors can also be a source of problems on the Focus ST. They can become clogged or damaged, which can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, and rough running. If you suspect that your injectors are faulty, it's important to get them tested by a qualified mechanic.

Other potential issues include problems with the turbocharger, EGR valve, and suspension components. However, these are less common than the issues listed above. Overall, the Focus ST is a fairly reliable car, but it's important to be aware of these potential problems and to get the car serviced regularly.

Interior and Features: What's It Like Inside?

Stepping inside the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185, you'll immediately notice the sporty touches that set it apart from the standard Focus. The Recaro seats are the first thing that grabs your attention. They're supportive and comfortable, with plenty of bolstering to hold you in place during spirited driving. The steering wheel is also unique to the ST, with a flat bottom and a thicker rim that feels great in your hands.

The dashboard is well-laid-out and easy to use, with all the controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is a bit dated, but it's still functional and includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation, and a rearview camera. The interior is generally well-built and feels solid, but some of the materials could be better. The rear seats are spacious enough for adults, and the trunk is a decent size, making the Focus ST a practical choice for families.

Standard features on the Focus ST include automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control, and a premium sound system. Optional extras include a sunroof, leather seats, and adaptive cruise control. Overall, the interior of the Focus ST is a pleasant place to be, with a good balance of sportiness and practicality.

Is the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 Worth It?

So, after all that, is the Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 worth it? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a fun, practical, and relatively fuel-efficient hot hatch, then the Focus ST is definitely worth considering. It offers a great blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability. It's not the most refined car in its class, but it's certainly one of the most engaging to drive.

However, if you prioritize comfort and luxury over performance, then you might be better off looking at something like a Volkswagen Golf GTD. The Golf GTD is more refined and comfortable, but it's not as exciting to drive as the Focus ST.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Focus ST is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. If you're looking for a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel, then the Focus ST is definitely worth a look.

Final Thoughts

The Ford Focus ST 2.0 TDCi 185 is a great all-around hot hatch that offers a fun and engaging driving experience, decent fuel economy, and reasonable practicality. It's not perfect, but it's a car that's easy to love. If you're in the market for a used hot hatch, the Focus ST should definitely be on your list. Just be sure to do your research and get the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy.

Happy driving, guys!