cars news 10: Ford Offers ST-Line Styling for Euro-Market Fiesta, Focus

European-market Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus models now have the option of a new ST-Line trim. Ford says the new ST-Line is for those who want the sporty look of the ST models without the more powerful engines or performance-tuned suspensions. The option is similar to BMW’s M Sport package.

“With our new ST-Line range even more customers can experience sporty style and driving dynamics inspired by our most exciting Ford Performance line-up ever, that includes models such as the Focus RS, new Fiesta ST200, and Ford GT supercar” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe, in a release. “This year we expect to sell 40,000 performance cars in Europe, a 50 per cent increase compared with 2015, which in turn saw performance car sales rise by 61 per cent compared with 2014.”

Up front, the ST-Line adds a new honeycomb grille insert and fog lights with dark surrounds. Fiesta ST-Line models get a front bumper lip spoiler, while Focus ST-Line models get a unique bumper insert. Along the sides, the ST-Line option adds a ST-Line badging on the front fenders, a black beltline, and deeper side skirts. Around back, both cars feature a large rear roof spoiler and rear diffuser.

Other exterior bits include unique 17-inch alloy wheels with a Rock Metallic Gray finish. While the ST-Line doesn’t offer the extreme suspension setup as full-blown ST models, the car does offer improved handling thanks to a 10-mm lower sport suspension.

Inside, the ST-Line adds sport seats with red accent stitching and an ST-inspired steering wheel finished is perforated leather with gray stitching. Other interior items include an ST-style shift knob, ST-Line scuff plates, and a dark headliner.

The new ST-Line can be specified for both two-door and four-door Ford Fiesta hatchback models as well as four-door hatchback and four-door wagon Ford Focus models.

Source: Ford