Ford Focus ST LA Premiere

American manufacturer Ford is having a field day at the last major auto show of the year, as it brought to the Los Angeles event the culmination of a year's work. And that culmination today spells Focus, a model which is getting more than its fair share of exposure at the show.

Among the regular production version Focus and the race car concept based on it, Ford is also presenting a sort of a combination between the two: the Focus ST. A model which, unfortunately, won't see daylight until 2012.

Powered by the same engine as on the production version, the 2.0l EcoBoost, but with a bit more juice in it (an yet unspecified output). The unit is paired to a six-speed manual gearbox with optimized ratios.

The modifications don't stop at the engine though, The ST rides lower than its regular counterpart, brakes harder and handles better thanks to the unique suspension tuning and the use of electric power-assisted steering (EPAS).

At the interior, the most striking change compared to the production version is the addition of three extra gauges for turbo boost, oil pressure and oil temperature. ST sports graphics with red needle pointers adorn the center console, while rally-inspired leather and fabric front seats wrap the driver.

“ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford vice president for Global Product Development.

“Moving forward, ST branding will keynote the enthusiast-directed versions of our core global vehicle lines. ST models will combine responsive performance, optimized handling dynamics, expressive design and sporty design cues. Importantly, ST models will deliver exceptional fuel economy and be priced within reach for car enthusiasts.”