Ford Shuts Down Focus ST Production in Europe

The end of an icon has arrived as Ford shuts down the Focus ST in Europe. With its final model built in Germany, the question now is what this means for fans of Ford’s legendary hot hatch.

Ford has shut down production of the Focus ST in Europe, officially closing the chapter on one of the most celebrated hot hatches of its time. The final unit rolled off the assembly line at Ford’s Saarlouis plant in Germany last week, confirming the company’s earlier plans to stop Focus production in 2025.

The Focus ST has earned its reputation because the automaker has balanced daily practicality with extraordinary performance. In the U.S., the last version featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivered 252 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time in just over six seconds. It was fast, fun, and affordable, a mix that won many loyal fans.

Europe received something even more special in 2019 with the fourth-generation Focus ST. This model came with a 2.3-liter turbo engine borrowed from the Focus RS, which can generate 276 horsepower. Ford also added a torque-vectoring differential and upgraded suspension. These features make it sharper on corners and more refined overall.

Still, availability was always a hurdle. Europeans enjoyed the newest version. But American drivers missed out since the Focus was no longer sold in North America.

Now, with Ford ending the production of the Focus ST in Europe, people will need to turn to the used market to keep the spirit alive. The ST might not be built in factories anymore. However, people will remember this vehicle’s legacy as a fun and practical performance car for years to come.