2023 Ford Focus ST 2.3T from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Great but with problems

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I had a 2014 Focus ST3 before & I can notice signs of "ensh*tification" going on. The rear doors don't have sensors for the keyless entry. The glovebox & centre console are not lined, so everything you put in there rattles around. By far the worst is the rattles from the front doors when you wind the B&O stereo above 10 (not very loud) - this is absolutely unacceptable & B&O should be outraged! I've managed to fix most of the rattles by fitting some foam behind the door cards, but the worst rattles come from the thin door skins vibrating against the window glass. I think I've fixed it by inserting bits of foam into the window seals.

The gearbox/clutch also feel cheap, with a lot of noises coming from that area - I get that there are switches & solenoids doing stuff - but it feels like there is end float or something going on in the clutch.

Goes like a scalded cat though & enjoying it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st August, 2026