Ford Wraps Up Production of Focus ST, Marking the End of an Era
Ford has officially concluded its storied journey in the hot hatch segment by halting production of the Focus ST. The final model left the Saarlouis assembly line in Germany on September 26.
Although the standard Focus will continue to be manufactured for a short period, the entire Focus lineup is set to cease production by November. This decision follows the closure of Focus ST orders months ago and aligns with Ford's earlier discontinuation of the Fiesta ST and Mondeo models.
Declining Presence in Europe
Ford's strategic withdrawal from key models has significantly impacted its market share in Europe, which now stands at a mere 3.3%. In contrast, competitors like Hyundai and Kia each hold a 4% share.
According to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), Ford sold 260,342 vehicles in the first eight months of the year. Volkswagen, excluding its numerous sub-brands, delivered nearly three and a half times that number, with Skoda alone nearly doubling Ford’s sales figures.
Shrinking Hot Hatch Landscape
The phasing out of the Focus ST underscores the ongoing reduction in Europe's hot hatch offerings. Recent exits include the Honda Civic Type R due to stricter emission standards, as well as Hyundai’s i20 N and i30 N. Models like the Peugeot 308 GTi are also no longer available.
Despite these losses, some options remain for enthusiasts. Volkswagen continues to offer the Polo GTI and Golf GTI/R, Cupra provides the Leon, and Audi has the S3 and RS3 Sportback. Additionally, models such as the BMW M135i, AMG A35/A45, and Toyota GR Yaris remain in the market, with the potential introduction of the GR Corolla slated for production in the UK next year.
With the impending Euro 7 regulations and the anticipated phase-out of new combustion vehicles by 2035, traditional gas-powered hot hatches are becoming increasingly rare.
Transition to Electric Performance
Automakers are shifting focus towards electric performance models, offering alternatives like the Abarth 500e, VW ID.3 GTX, and Peugeot E-208 GTi. However, this transition suggests that the golden age of hot hatches is coming to an end.
Future of the Saarlouis Facility
The Saarlouis plant will remain operational until the end of 2032, preserving approximately 1,000 jobs. While car production is winding down, there are speculations about new models being developed, likely leaning towards SUVs such as a new Focus-sized vehicle to join the Puma and Kuga lines.
Despite the current downturn, there is hope that Ford of Europe will revive its hatchback tradition in the future. In the meantime, enthusiasts bid farewell to the Focus ST and the Focus line as a whole.
