VIDEO: Ford Shows Off 2012 Focus ST on the Road

For anyone secretly hoping that the Ford Focus ST Paris Show car would look better in motion, we're sorry to say it does not. Somehow this video makes that 'gaping mouth' grille look even worse, and all the odd creases and curves stand out even more. That 'Tangerine Scream' paintwork isn't doing it any favors either.

Admittedly, the Paris Show Car makes the old, pre-facelift ST look boring and understated by comparison, but is it really better to be garishly ugly than conservatively dull? At least things are better under the bonnet. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder good for 250 hp should make the new ST a real corker when it launches in 2012, as will the rumored dual-clutch Powershift 'box.

Here's hoping Ford reconsiders the styling before then. Oh well, at least if you're driving it, you can't see that hideous gaping grille.

By Tristan Hankins

2012 Ford Focus to get 160HP 2.0-liter with Direct-Injection and 40mpg

Ford today revealed new details on the 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that will be offered on the North American market 2012 Focus when it arrives in U.S. showrooms next year. This newly designed powerplant marries direct injection technology with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and E85 flex fuel capability. The latter gives drivers the choice of using less-expensive E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

The 2.0L engine's output rated is at 160-horsepower and 146 lb.-ft. torque, which represents a gain of 20HP and 10 lb-ft respectively over the four-cylinder unit found in the current generation 2011 Focus.

According to the Dearborn-based automaker, the 2012 Focus with the new 2.0-liter four-banger can achieve an estimated 40 mpg US on highway when paired to an automatic transmission. That's a significant improvement over the 140HP 2011 Focus with an auto box that returns 35mpg / highway.

"By combining direct injection and Ti-VCT, we've been able to make a quantum leap in fuel economy and performance," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "We're meeting the goals of our global powertrain strategy, and we now have another key engine in our lineup."

_______________________________GALLERY_______________________________

Ford offers a special edition Focus Sport 2011 - price list

Ford has introduced a range of special edition Focus Sport, which is complemented by sporty elements and new options.

"Sports style and technology together in a city car, offering a new comfort and convenience" - said in a release.

The list of standard equipment includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth, integrated USB, 16-inch alloy wheels ST, parking sensors, automatic headlights, wipers and mirrors Antidazzle.

Ford Focus Sport is available in five-door body, with the two most popular engines - a 1.6-liter diesel TDCI, capacity of 109 hp and 1.6-liter gasoline version, issuing 100 hp Both engines are equipped with manual transmission.

In a range of exterior colors, there are six options, selling Ford Focus Sport will begin next spring, the cost of 19,070 euros (26,175 dollars) for the petrol version and 20,568 euros (28,231 dollars) for diesel.