Here at Anderson Ford, we make no effort to keep our love of the Ford Focus a secret. The Focus is stylish, efficient, and affordable, which are all adjectives that can be used to describe the models in the Ford new model lineup. Once area, however, where even we'll admit that the Ford Focus could use some help in is performance.

A far cry from a race car, the Focus isn't entirely unsalable in this sense though. To prove this point, the people at Ford Racing actually took it upon themselves to create a performance-driven Focus that could hold its own on the race track. Were they successful? Let's find out!

"...the design and functionality of the various vehicle systems have helped to develop a global technical specification for teams wanting to race the new Focus cost effectively," says Jost Capito, Director, Global Performance, Vehicles and Motorsports Business Development. "Ford Racing North America has taken this effort and developed a new [Ford] Focus ST-R and is a perfect example of how a great production car inspires a competitive race car for enthusiasts."¹

Make enough subtle teaks to a car and it may end up looking like a distant cousin at best when compared to an unaltered version. That happens to be exactly the case with the Ford Focus ST-R. More aggressive alterations were made through the addition of a roll cage, uprated brakes, track-tuned suspension, and, perhaps most exciting, a more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine under the hood. Impressive, yes?

Don't go looking for the Ford Focus ST-R on our lot at 1001 State Route 10 West Clinton, IL 61727, however. From the sounds of it, this model won't make its way into mass production any time soon. But, you can take the unaltered 2012 Ford Focus for a test drive by either dialing (888) 715-6476 or y submitting a contact form to us, so we can reach you at your next convenience.

Or, if you'd rather take a step back and do a little online research, then make sure to load up the new Ford inventory and showroom pages online. Once there, you'll be able to browse an excellent selection of info regarding specific models, such as the Ford Explorer, Ford F-350, and Ford Taurus. Combine that with the fact that you can also calculate financing, and learn how to protect your investment through our dedicated Ford parts and service departments.

Source: ¹ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ford-racing-unveils-focus-st-r/