What does the 'ST' in Ford ST mean?
To put it simply, it stands for "Sports-Tuned." Much like the RS (Rallye Sports) line of performance models, ST models are specially-branded Ford models built with heavy performance power and specs that take them to a whole other level. While Ford has always made performance models throughout the years, ST models mark the first time that the company has made their entire line of consumer-ready vehicles with these specs. Take a look at some of Ford's ST models throughout the years, and see what else is coming up ahead.
The Beginning
ST-branded Ford models are nothing new to the company, with some models dating all the way back to 1997 with the Ford Mondeo ST24 (which signified nothing more than a trim-level designation). It wasn't until 2008 when Ford began offering Mountune performance options for the Fiesta ST model in Britain that the performance line started gaining traction within the company. From there, Ford started creating an ST version of the Focus as well, with peak performance specs going up to 225 horsepower and achieving 0-100km in just 6 seconds.
Today
Ford's ST line has evolved in the last several years with the Focus and Fiesta. Today, the Ford Fiesta ST's 1.6L EcoBoost engine can produce up to 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque, while the 2018 Focus ST has been specced out with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine that's capable of 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, Ford also introduced its first performance-based SUV in its performance lineup earlier this year, with the 2019 Edge ST, packed with a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine that excels with 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft torque.
The Future
Within the next few years, Ford has major plans to expand its ST performance line, adding more models to the lineup. Most notably, the company just officially announced that the 2020 Explorer is adding an ST version of the full-size SUV into the fray! With a twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost® engine going up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, the 2020 Explorer ST can reach a top speed of up to 229 km/h.
If more models keep getting the ST treatment at Ford, we're excited to see what the future has in store for them. To see an ST model for yourself, visit our north Edmonton dealership and take one out for a spin!
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