Paris Motor Show: 2011 Hyundai i20 Sport Edition

Hyundai is showing off the new Sport edition of its i20 supermini at this year’s Paris motor show.

The car comes with a body-colored front skirt, flared wheelarches, a glossy radiator grille mesh insert, black bezel headlights, as well as daytime running lights. In addition to that, the exterior was fitted with glossy B-pillars, tinted windows, dark red tinted rear lights. The car now rides in 17-inch alloy rims that use Yokohama tires.

Inside you’ll find orange leather Recaro seats, a black leather gearshift cover with orange-colored seams, a chrome gear shift knob, a leather-wrapped center console, leather-covered door panels, and a 7-inch touch screen navigation.

The i20 Sport Edition will go into limited production during the first half of 2011, when Hyundai will announce details of the model's engine and transmission specifications. The car will be available in either three- or five-door guise, manufactured at Hyundai's Indian and Turkish plants, respectively.

Source: Hyundai




Press Release

SPORTS KIT DEVELOPED WITH BRABUS BRINGS ADDED STYLE TO THE I20

One of the most successful models in Hyundai's European line-up, the i20 returns to Paris this year, having made its global debut at the 2008 edition of the show. A facelift earlier in the year kept the model fresh, and now the i20 has an even more dynamic profile.

Enhancing the energetic character of the i20, Hyundai's European R&D Center in Russelsheim, Germany, has developed the i20 Sport Edition, in cooperation with German high-performance aftermarket tuning company, Car Research and Development (CRD).

Bringing further excitement to the Hyundai range, the bespoke kit adds a wide assortment of styling enhancements to the i20 supermini's interior and exterior, bringing a sporty and sophisticated image to the vehicle and adding a luxurious touch by applying high-quality materials to the interior.

Accentuating the i20's already dynamic image, the Sport Edition adds body-coloured front skirt and wheelarch flares to the exterior, while a glossy radiator grille mesh insert, black bezel headlights and daytime running lights are also introduced. The car's sporty appearance is completed with the inclusion of a glossy B-pillar, smoked windows, dark red tinted rear lights and 17-inch Brabus alloy wheels with Yokohama tyres

Inside, a luxurious dimension is added to the sporty theme. Orange leather Recaro seats, a black leather gearshift cover with orange-colored seams, a chrome gear shift knob, a leather-wrapped center console, leather-covered door panels, and a 7-inch touch screen nvigation all bring added verve to the driving experience.

The i20 Sport Edition will go into limited production during the first half of 2011, when Hyundai will announce details of the model's engine and transmission specifications. The car will be available in either three- or five-door guise, manufactured at Hyundai's Indian and Turkish plants, respectively.

Paris Auto Show: 2013 Lotus Elan【Video】

Lotus has unveiled the 2013 Elan, The 2013 Lotus Elan will go into production in the summer of 2013 and will be put on sale in the fall the same year. The 2013 Lotus Elan is powered by a smaller engine than the previous two model. It has a 4.0 liter V6 pressure charged engine capable of delivering up to 450 PS and taking into consideration its relative light weight of 1,295kg. Planned to be produced in summer 2013, the 2013 Elan will feature a 2+2 variant and optional hybrid technology with KERS. The car will enters the market in autumn 2013 with price indication approximately £75,000.

Also shared with the Esprit is a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox and optional kinetic energy recovery system or KERS. Peak output is rated 450 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque, which is significantly lower than the Esprit’s 620 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, however, the Elan is not too far off the pace thanks to a lighter kerb weight of just 2,885 pounds. Lotus claims a 3.5 second time for the 0-60 mph run and a top speed around 190 mph.

Production will start in Summer 2013 with deliveries in Autumn 2013. Expected price tag is £ 75,000 (€ 87,000).






Press Release

The End of Compromise

As the old saying goes, you can't have your cake and eat it. In the past we were educated to believe we can't have it all. But that was the past. Today's driver demands more and the 2013 Elan delivers.

The 2013 Elan is the beating heart of the new Lotus line-up. It's a high performance sports car, that much is clear, it's a Lotus after all, but thanks to some clever innovations the 2013 Elan also has everyday usability too.

With a 2+2 variant, the 2013 Elan should be the only car you need.

Set for release during the second half of 2013, the 2013 Elan features a 4.0 liter V6 pressure charged engine capable of delivering up to 450 PS and taking into consideration its relative light weight of 1,295kg, the 2013 Elan's performance edges on supercar.

From a styling perspective, the 2013 Elan is built like an athlete with a muscular physique and perfect poise. It's a thoroughbred, rigid with tension, ambitious and addictive, nothing but best in class will suffice for this car.

It's not enough to simply provide performance and exceptional looks, innovation is also integral to the 2013 Elan's appeal. In keeping with the rest of the new Lotus range, the 2013 Elan features optional hybrid technology with KERS.

Dany Bahar, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus, said: "If there was ever a car to make you drive the long way home, it's the 2013 Elan. Perfect for both road and track, the 2013 Elan not only ticks all the boxes, it creates new ones too."

"The 2013 Elan will convert people to Lotus, I would challenge people not to become addicted to driving it. It will also go a long way towards dispelling the old misconceptions about this class, that in order to have high performance you must sacrifice usability - those days are gone."

"Once you drive an 2013 Elan you won't look back, it will give you things you didn't even realise you were missing - that's the essence of Lotus and the 2013 Elan perfectly captures that spirit."

One car, zero compromise.

2013 Lotus Elan Specifications

• Layout 2 seater (optional 2+2), mid-engined, rear wheel drive
• Engine Petrol, hybrid optional
• Hybrid technology Optional KERS
• Cylinder V6
• Capacity 4.0 litre
• Power/Torque 450 PS / 465 Nm
• Rev limit 7,800 rpm
• 0-100 km/h 3.5 seconds
• Top speed 310 km/h
• CO2 approx (CO2/km) 199 g/km**
• Weight 1,295 kg
• Seats 2
• Transmission 7 Speed DCT
• Drive RWD
• Start of production Summer 2013
• Enters the market Autumn 2013
• Price indication Circa £75,000

*Please refer to the ‘Further Information' section in the Media Kit for information relating to this specification
**Using optional hybrid

2010 Paris Auto Show: Renault Twizy【Video】

Renault has releases the Twizy mini city car, at the 2010 Paris motor show.

The Renault Twizy Z.E. Concept is an all-electric compact vehicle which features a width of just 1.1 meters, faired wheels and two seats located one behind the other. It previews the brand's future electric models that will be intrododuced from 2011.

There will apparently be two different versions of the Twizy available, one sporting nine horsepower that can hit a top speed of 28 miles per hour and one with 20 horses that can hit 47 mph. A three-and-a-half-hour charge will result in 60 miles of range from the onboard lithium ion battery pack.

The vehicle is powered by a 15-kW electric motor and has a top speed of 47 mph and a range of 60 miles between charges. It features an integrated charger that enables the battery pack to be charged from roadside outlets. On household current, the Twizy can be fully recharged in 3.5 hours.

Renault claims that the EV is good for 60 miles making it perfect for those who have to commute to the city – just make certain that you do not live more than 60 miles return journey. The cost of the Twizy is expected to be around £6000.

Source: Renault






Press Release

TWIZY: A NIMBLE, PRACTICAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE FOR A FRESH APPROACH TO CITY MOTORING

Renault has chosen the 2010 Paris Motor Show to unveil the definitive version of Renault Twizy, a model that ingeniously illustrates Renault's new 'Drive the Change' brand signature. Twizy stands out as a particularly innovative answer to urban motoring:

• Thanks to its innovative concept, assertive character and ultra-compact footprint, Twizy is sure to appeal to active city dwellers looking for a stylish yet particularly practical vehicle.

• It is nimbler than a conventional car, while its acceleration in urban and suburban traffic is comparable to that of a scooter. Twizy offers the driver and passenger - seated one behind the other - protective bodywork, plus the reassuring road holding and braking ability of a four-wheeled vehicle.

• Twizy is an all-electric vehicle, so it doesn't produce any emissions during its use on the road. It is powered by a 15kW (20hp) motor developing 57Nm of torque and delivers all the advantages associated with electric mobility, including a silent ride, smooth acceleration and the immediate availability of maximum torque.

The liveries of the examples displayed on Renault's stand at the Paris Motor Show feature graphic designs conceived by Renault Design to serve as examples of the model's scope for customisation that is sure to appeal to Twizy owners.

Along with Renault Fluence Z.E. and Renault Kangoo Van Z.E., Twizy will be the third model in the Renault Z.E. electric vehicle family to be introduced. It is scheduled for release in the UK in early 2012.

It is already possible to place pre-orders for Renault Twizy at www.renault-ze.com

Twizy will be manufactured in Valladolid, Spain.

An innovative response to the challenge of urban mobility

A unique concept

The ultra-compact footprint of Twizy (length: 2.32 metres / width: 1.19 metres / height: 1.46 metres) is ideally suited to city motoring. Twizy will clearly appeal to busy, car-owning city dwellers looking for a second vehicle, as well as to younger drivers interested in a safe way to gain experience in traffic thanks to the availability of a version that will not require a driver's licence (depending on country).

Although its compact dimensions are likely to prompt comparisons with the world of scooters, Twizy delivers all the fundamentals associated with any car, namely four wheels, a steering wheel and pedals, plus an enveloping body for two occupants sitting in tandem, one behind the other.

A unique design

Twizy combines real character with a resolutely modern design that boasts sweeping lines, open bodywork, original gull wing doors and a full windscreen which extends over the top of the car to form a large glazed area, not to mention the model's original lighting signature.

Twizy buyers are likely to be sensitive to new design trends and will be able to customise their vehicle thanks to a wide choice of graphics available from launch.

TWIZY CUSTOMISED BY RENAULT DESIGN AT THE PARIS SHOW

The Paris Motor Show will see Renault display three Renault Twizys sporting customised liveries conceived by Renault Design.

The graphics of Twizy Dot Dot's design place the emphasis on elegance, Twizy Circuit takes its cues from the computer-generated imagery associated with science fiction films, and Renault Twizy Totem combines high-energy colours with tribal forms.

Nine other examples will be visible in virtual form, and visitors to Renault's stand at the Paris Motor Show (or to www.renault-ze.com) will be invited to vote for the customised Twizy they prefer from the 12 creations proposed by Renault Design.

The design which receives the highest number of votes will serve as inspiration for a limited edition version that will go on sale in 2011.

As nimble and practical as a scooter, with far superior occupant protection

Twizy's nimble handling makes it ideal for motoring in and about town. Thanks to its extremely compact footprint and a turning circle of just 3.4 metres, Twizy has no trouble finding parking space in built-up areas where micro city cars give up and look elsewhere.

Twizy's motor delivers maximum torque (57Nm; four times that of a three-wheeled 125cc scooter) the instant it is switched on. Renault Twizy consequently accelerates crisply from standstill and performs briskly in traffic. A top speed of 47mph also ensures that Twizy is at home in suburban traffic and on busy ring roads, etc. In some countries, a version limited to 28 mph will be available.

A particularly practical solution:

• Twizy's enveloping body and side deflectors combine the enjoyment of open-air motoring with protection from the elements. Additional lower door panels are available to provide even more effective shielding against wind and rain.

• The amount of in-car stowage space is ideally suited to the needs of owners travelling to and from work, or to and from the shops. A 31-litre lockable cubby - ideal for a briefcase or limited shopping - is readily accessible underneath the rear seat. The capacity of this locker can easily be increased to 55 litres. There are also three litres of stowage space either side of the steering wheel.

Easy to drive:

• Driving Twizy is a different, yet enjoyable and intuitive experience. Acceleration is smooth, torque is instantly available and the motor is particularly quiet.

• Dashboard information includes an econometer and a range gauge. Both are very clear and ensure that drivers feel immediately at home behind the wheel.

Twizy provides a standard of safety performance superior to that of a scooter.

Twizy's bodywork, for example, is far more visible in traffic to other road users. In the case of a head-on collision, both occupants are protected by a deformable structure, while the outboard position of the four wheels and the lateral beams located either side of the chassis provide protection should the vehicle be involved in a side-on impact. The safety retention systems include a driver's airbag, a four-point harness at the front and a three-point safety belt at the rear. Also, since Twizy's occupants are protected and held in place, they are under no legal requirement to wear any sort of protective gear (crash helmet, protective clothing, etc.). Thanks to its four-wheeled chassis and extremely low centre of gravity, Twizy delivers a reassuringly stable ride, while disc brakes all-round ensure precise, efficient stopping power.

An all-electric vehicle for zero-emission motoring (during road use)

Renault Twizy's carefully honed weight - 450kg, including batteries (100kg) - is directly beneficial to its range which stands at 60 miles (combined cycle). Its battery is also particularly easy to charge thanks to an extendable spiral cable stored beneath a flap at the front of the vehicle. Thanks to an integrated charger, this cable is also compatible with roadside battery charging facilities. An adapter permits this cable to be plugged into any 220V 10A household electrical supply.

The battery fully charges in three-and-a-half hours.

Twizy will go on sale in Europe at the end of 2011 with a price tag similar to that of a three-wheeled scooter. For the UK, launch is planned for the first quarter of 2012. Like the other models that make up the Renault Z.E. range, customers will be able to take out a monthly subscription to cover battery rental and associated services.

RENAULT TWIZY - Technical Specification

DIMENSIONS
Standard rims (inches)		13
Length (mm)		2,320
Width (mm)		1,191
Height (mm)		1,461
Wheelbase (mm)		1,684
Front/rear track (mm)		1,050/1,036
Front/rear overhang (mm)		292/345
Kerb weight (kg)		450 (with 100kg battery)
Standard tyres (front/rear)		125x80 R13 / 145x80 R13
MOTOR
Type		Electric
Transmission		Direct drive with reducer and forward/reverse inverter
Maximum continuous power (EEC) (45kph version/75kph version)		4kW (5hp)/8kW (10hp)
Maximum peak power (EEC)(45kph version/75kph version)		7kW (9hp)/15kW (20hp)
Maximum torque EEC (Nm)		57
BATTERY
Type		Lithium-ion
NEDC combined cycle range		60 miles
PERFORMANCE
Top speed	47 mph

2010 SEMA Show: Hyundai Sonata 2.0T by RIDES

Hyundai has announced plans to introduce a supercar-inspired Sonata Turbo at the SEMA Motor Show.

The exterior modifications use "influences from the Brabus Mercedes CLS Rocket sport coupe," said Hyundai in a statement. Details include 20-inch staggered three-piece wheels, matte pearl white paint and carbon-fiber components including grille, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser. "To complete the design, fabricators will incorporate LED foglights into the bumper from the Porsche 911 Turbo," said Hyundai.

The interior will be inspired by the Ferrari F430. There will be a strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents. Those strapped into the leather driver’s seat will take pleasure in performance upgrades including turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.

Hoping to build some hype around the new 2011 Sonata 2.0-liter Turbo before it arrives in showrooms later this year, Hyundai has teamed up with RIDES and 0-60 magazines to trick out the 274-horsepower-strong saloon for the SEMA show, which will take place in Las Vegas this November.




Press Release

RIDES & 0-60 MAGAZINES ROLL TO SEMA IN PEARLY HYUNDAI SONATA TURBO

Supercar-Inspired Sonata Turbo to Make SEMA Debut in Hyundai Booth

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 09/30/2010

To build excitement around the recently launched 2011 Sonata Turbo, Hyundai Motor America teamed up with RIDES and 0-60 magazines to trick out one of the first turbos off the assembly line of its Alabama plant for a debut at this year's SEMA show. Inspired by Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche, the modified Sonata 2.0T will feature performance parts from leading aftermarket companies and custom fabrication work from RIDES' and 0-60's team of expert builders.

"The Sonata Turbo is an ideal platform for us to bridge the worlds of performance, aesthetics, luxury, technology and style," said Ben Harris, executive publisher, RIDES and 0-60 magazines. "The design we've chosen will accentuate the car's lines and style, using influences from exotic supercars."

The vehicle's exterior modifications will be modest and tasteful, using influences from the four-door Brabus Mercedes CLS Rocket sport coupe to broaden and draw attention to the vehicle's body lines from the factory. Key elements consist of 20-inch concave monobloc wheels, matte pearl white paint and a slew of carbon fiber components including the roof, grill, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser. To complete the design, fabricators will incorporate custom LED fog lights into the bumper.

Inspiration for the sporty interior design came from the Ferrari F430, with strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents. Those strapped into the leather driver's seat will take pleasure in performance upgrades including turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.

The Sonata Turbo will be shown in the Hyundai Booth between November 2-5, 2010 (Booth #24387), among other vehicles from Hyundai Motor America. Outside of SEMA, the 2011 Sonata Turbo will be arriving in dealer showrooms later this year, with 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.

RIDES MAGAZINE
RIDES is the premiere urban automotive enthusiast magazine and represents the worlds of "Street, Speed, Sound and Style." Bridging the worlds between enthusiast and consumer magazines, RIDES captures the essence of today's automotive lifestyle. From the hottest cars, trucks and customizations to celebrity cars, the ultimate in high-end performance, old school classics, new car reviews and the latest trends, if it represents the best in automotive, it's in RIDES. RIDES is published by Harris Publications, one of the country¹s largest special interest enthusiast publishers with over 70 different titles, including such young men's magazines as XXL, 0-60 and Antenna.

0-60 MAGAZINE
0-60 is a new generation of car magazine for today's performance enthusiasts who are looking for the latest in speed, power and fast cars. 0-60 fills the void between mainstream and enthusiast titles, connecting the reader with the latest in everything performance related. From the aftermarket to the OEMs, 0-60 looks at the cars, products, and go-fast bits that help create a bold, aggressive driving experience. 0-60 is published by Harris Publications, one of the country¹s largest special interest publishers with over 70 different titles, including such young men's magazines as XXL, RIDES

Paris Auto Show: 2012 Ford Focus ST

Ford has releases details for the new Focus ST concept, which will debut at the 2010 Paris Auto Show

The Focus ST will be on top of the model range, and alongside it in Paris, Ford will be showing off sedan, wagon, and hatchback versions. But it's the ST that's getting the most attention from the press gathering this year for the Paris Expo. And it's likely because of the 247 horsepower hidden underneath its bespoilered body and its bespoked wheels, and a coat of "Tangerine Scream" paint.

Power is provided by a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine which has been outfitted with a redesigned intake and a recalibrated ECU. Thanks to these modifications, the mill produces 250 PS (184 kW / 247 hp) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque.

Inside and out there’s plenty to talk about thank to a an aggressive aero kit with large lower air intakes, a massive central intake, race-inspired rear diffuser and 19-inch wheels that all add to the Focus’s already attractive package. And with an already high-grade interior on the new global Focus, the ST model gets Recaro seats up front, plus plenty of detailed stitching on the interior, as well as a unique steering wheel.

Source: Ford






Press Release

GLOBAL REVEAL OF NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE FORD FOCUS ST AT PARIS SHOW

The next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show

Ford delivers on promise to introduce a global performance version of the new Focus: next-generation 250 PS Focus ST previewed at the Paris Motor Show

• Ford's first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford's global Performance Vehicles team
• Exciting new model will be true to Ford's ST heritage, with exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design
• Pure performance delivered by unique 250 PS version of new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine
• Over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current European Focus ST, but fuel consumption and CO2 emissions cut by more than 20 per cent
• Lowered chassis and unique suspension tuning to deliver acclaimed ST handling agility and poise
• 5-door ST show car for Paris features dramatic ‘Tangerine Scream' body colour, reflecting new ST's exciting and energetic character

The exciting next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, providing an early preview of the new high-performance model which will be introduced around the world in 2012.

Ford's first global high performance model and a star attraction for Ford in Paris, the powerful new Focus ST show car was revealed today by Alan Mulally, Ford's President and CEO, and Stephen Odell, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

This range-topping Focus will be completely true to Ford's ST model heritage, offering driving enthusiasts an intoxicating cocktail of exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design.
"The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers with an early preview in Paris," said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford Motor Company's Global C-car Vehicle Line Director. "The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance and we are confident that the new model will strengthen the reputation of Ford's ST heritage among enthusiast drivers and attract new fans as well."

Global Performance Model
One common Focus ST model is being developed for all global markets, with the vehicle targeted for launch during 2012. This will be the first time that Ford has produced one of its highly regarded high-performance models for a global audience.

The Focus ST development programme is being undertaken by Ford's global Performance Vehicles group, which comprises Team RS (Europe) and SVT (USA) engineers, who are dedicated to developing and tuning products like the formidable Focus RS, Shelby GT500 and F-150 SVT Raptor.

For new Focus ST the development is being led by Team RS performance specialists based in Europe, building on their extensive experience in engineering sought-after cars like the previous ST models and legendary RS series.

"The new Focus ST will be our first true global performance vehicle and we are excited about the chance to give many customers worldwide their first taste of Ford's acclaimed ST heritage," said Jost Capito, Director of Global Performance Vehicles. "Like the ST and RS models before it, the Focus ST will be the result of painstaking tuning around the curves of the Nürburgring, along high-speed German autobahns, and down classic British B-roads.

"For European drivers, the Focus ST will bring the same distinctive qualities of pure dynamics and performance that have created the unique appeal of our ST heritage.

"For enthusiasts in North America and Asia who have asked why our compact performance models were not available to them - the wait is almost over! The new Focus ST will offer exactly the same exciting driving experience wherever it's on sale," added Capito.

More Performance - and More Economy - from Ford EcoBoost Power
At the heart of the appeal of the next-generation Focus ST is a high-output 250 PS derivative of the efficient and advanced new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine.

Succeeding the turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder unit of the current European model, this unique 250 PS Ford EcoBoost engine is being specially developed for the new Focus ST to ensure that the car gets the muscular performance - and the inspirational sound - which it deserves. It also marks the first application of the four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model.

Compared to the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine used in other Ford vehicles, the 250 PS unit features re-designed intake and exhaust systems and a unique engine calibration to deliver the desired level of power and responsiveness. The engine retains the strong torque delivery which is a feature of Ford EcoBoost designs, with a broad, flat torque curve offering a maximum output of 360 Nm.

One of a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford, the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost is a lightweight, all-aluminium design which combines three technologies - high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing - to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

This ultra efficient 250 PS engine therefore not only delivers over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current 2.5-litre unit, it is also estimated to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 20 per cent.

The standard transmission for the Focus ST is a 6-speed manual gearbox, optimised with more sporting ratios carefully matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.

Genuine Performance and Handling
Ford Team RS performance vehicle specialists have a mission: to ensure that the new Focus ST delivers the pure performance and handling everyone expects from a genuine Ford ST model.

Compared to the standard Focus, the ST model will feature a comprehensive range of enhancements including a chassis lowered by 10mm, a substantially different variable ratio steering system, high performance brakes and unique suspension tuning, that will enable the vehicle to deliver the acclaimed ST handling agility and poise.

Naturally, the ST will also benefit from the performance improvements being delivered by the next-generation Focus vehicle architecture. Features like a stronger, stiffer body structure, optimised front and rear suspension system designs, and a new electric power assisted steering (EPAS) system all contribute to superior vehicle dynamics and improved refinement.

Unprecedented Level of Smart Technologies
Focus ST drivers will also be able to take advantage of the unprecedented level of smart new technologies incorporated in Ford's latest global C-car platform, including advanced new driver assistance, powertrain, chassis and active safety features.

Many of these features, such as the advanced new Torque Vectoring Control system - which acts like a torque vectoring differential to enhance cornering stability and agility - have a direct impact on improving driving quality to an even higher level.

"This is the third generation Focus ST and we are determined that the new car will continue the strong heritage of affordable, high performance ST models into the future," said Jost Capito. "The technology on offer with Ford's new global C-car platform will also help to ensure that the Focus ST provides enthusiasts with an exceptional driving experience."

Unique High-Performance Exterior
The new Focus ST features a highly distinctive sports exterior, providing significant functional and aerodynamic benefits and clearly differentiating the ST derivative from other models in the new Focus family.

While sharing the already sleek and dynamic profile of the new Focus five-door, the ST features unique front- and rear-end designs, together with muscular extended rocker panels and striking new alloy wheels based on the classic Y-spoke ST pattern.

"The changes we have made to deliver superior aerodynamics and vehicle performance have made the new Focus ST even more sporty and distinctive," explained Martin Smith, Executive Design Director. "Exciting new design treatments at the front and rear give the ST a much more dynamic and purposeful character, making it very clear that this is definitely a sporting Focus."

The more sporting design language is particularly evident at the front end, where the twin upper and lower grilles of the standard car are replaced by a prominent new one-piece design.

Representing the sportiest definition yet of Ford's signature trapezoidal grille, the bold one-piece design is placed higher on the nose of the vehicle, and incorporates a distinctive hexagonal mesh finished in high gloss black.

The front spoiler has a completely new configuration, with a deep central splitter framed by small motorsport-inspired spoiler blades on either side, which sweep round and encompass the fog lamps. The spoiler blades are linked to the rest of the body lines through the grille structure, which is reminiscent of the similar treatment in the current Focus RS model.

The more assertive, sporting character of the front end is completed by details like the gloss black finish to the headlamp bezels, and the bold red ST badge on the one-piece grille.

From the side, muscular extended rocker panels emphasise the lowered chassis, and the bold wheel arches are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels which are the latest evolution of the classic Y-spoke ST wheel.

Dynamic Rear End Treatment
The rear bumper and lower fascia is also completely new, with prominent diffuser-style vents on either side which mirror the form of the front spoiler blades. Rear lamps with a dark smoked tint enhance the sporty feel.

The new Focus ST has a high-performance exhaust system, which exits the vehicle through a central dual-pipe outlet. The exhaust outlet has been given a highly-distinctive design treatment with a strong kinetic form which emulates the design themes on the rest of the car.

The car's aerodynamic package is completed by a highly effective integrated roof spoiler, which has been optimised to deliver improved high-speed stability and reduced drag. With a larger, more exaggerated design than the spoiler on the current Focus ST, it incorporates ducting to the rear screen and has been carefully integrated with the vehicle tailgate and roof.

Dramatic New Body Colour
The Paris preview car is finished in a dramatic new 'Tangerine Scream' body colour, which reflects the exciting and energetic new character of the Focus ST.

A spiritual successor to the signature Electric Orange finish of the current Focus ST, Tangerine Scream is a very intense and vibrant high-saturation metallic yellow-gold tone created using an experimental process with multiple layers of tinted lacquer.

"Such an exciting new car deserves an exciting new finish and we believe that this vibrant new colour will prove just as memorable as Electric Orange," said Martin Smith. "You can expect to see a very similar shade when the ST reaches the showroom."

To complement the vibrant exterior colour, the 19-inch alloy wheels have a warm, anodised Golden Graphite finish. Their sophisticated five-spoke design is contrasted by the brake calipers which are brightly painted in body colour.

Bold High-Contrast Sports Cockpit
The performance theme from the exterior is echoed inside the car, with a very bold high-contrast sports cockpit featuring Recaro seats, unique instrumentation and modern, highly technical finishes.

Dramatically-bolstered and rally-inspired Recaro leather and fabric front seats provide an ideal balance between sporting support and long-distance comfort, and form the centrepiece of the cabin.

The seats are finished in high-quality Charcoal Black leather, offset by bold orange gold panels in a neoprene fabric and vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching. The central Charcoal Black fabric seat panels feature a rugged embossed design in the style of a performance tyre tread pattern. The rear Recaro seats are finished in the same distinctive style.

Throughout the cabin, unique details ensure that the Focus ST clearly signals its sporting intent. Three additional gauges for turbo boost, oil pressure and oil temperature are housed in a dedicated binnacle on the upper instrument panel; the instrument cluster features unique ST sports graphics with red needle pointers; and the centre console has a technical carbon-effect finish.

The interior has the signature ST treatment of a dark interior environment, with black headlining, bespoke steering wheel and a gear knob featuring the ST logo, plus metal racing pedals.

The premium sports feel of the cabin is enhanced by a generous use of Charcoal Black leather with vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching on many of the interior surfaces, including the seats, door panels, central armrest, steering wheel, gearshift gaiter and the top of the instrument binnacle.

"The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and we have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort," said Stephen Odell. "The approach of form following function is a key part of the ST DNA, and we have remained true to that both inside and outside the vehicle."