2013 Ford focus ST

The new Ford Focus is now out and what’s even better is its availability in the ST model.  Sporty styling? Check.  Turbo? Check. Smiles? Well that’s Guaranteed.  Following up on the success of the last generation Focus St, there was a lot to live up to, in terms of its looks and performance.  I think Ford did a great job with the 2013 Focus worthy of that ST badge. At first I didn't agree with the exterior styling with that big front grill, but after taking a closer look and driving it I have a new perception of it.  The rugged grill acts as a muzzle trying to silence this incredible machine.

The Focus St was a pleasure to drive, as it was quiet and relatively smooth, especially for a sports car.  This means that it can also serve as a family car for taking the kids to school, and an after school toy for the grown-ups too.  The 2Litre Eco boost turbo-charged engine with 184kw of power will make sure you have plenty of fun with this car.  Put your foot down and it will immediately silence the humdrum sounds of reality.  The turbo kicks in, and a sensual growling comes from within the engine and out of the unique exhaust (which looked like it belonged to a flame thrower).

Focus, in the literal sense is a necessity for driving this car.  Blink, and you might just end up hitting the top speeds in no time.  But who could blame you if you did, as you sit back and relax in the most comfortable sports car seats I’ve ever experienced.

As much as I like the car, there were however a few faults I found, which were oddly enough all located in the interior.  The center console and radio system needed more contrast from the rest of the car, as its features hid among the dash board.  The gear lever was a little too far from the driver, which can be irritating during any long or short journey.  However, the new Focus ST has a lot more to like than to dislike, especially with its price at around R318 000, it’s actually more affordable and has a greater output of power than it’s Golf GTI competitor.

Subaru Imprezza WRX,

World rally cross or WRX letters that motor enthusiasts love to see on a car that symbolizes power.  With so many vents and scoops on the car, it creates the feeling that you being sucked into the cockpit.  This Subaru is a pleasure to look at, with almost life like qualities resembling that of a Japanese dragon.  With its back scoops and lines, intimidating front head lights like a wild eyed beast and amazing bonnet scoop, acting like the nostrils of a dragon.

So how did it feel driving this dragon you ask?  For a start the cockpit is very quiet, however this is just a misleading tactic. After cruising for a little and enjoying the smooth ride of this beast, I put my foot down an unleashed the true power of the WRX.  You hear the turbo ‘spool’ and then that front “nostril” sucks in great amounts of air.  This is in order for that incredible 2.5litre turbocharged engine to push the ‘fire power’ of this dragon out the tailpipes.  It was like sitting in the world’s most comfortable rocket. Taking the corners was just as fun as it hugged the road with its claw like grip.  It has its all-wheel drive system to thank for this.  There is no doubt that there is more than enough power for anyone to have some fun with this car, especially with that famous Subaru engine sound.

However the interior of the WRX was nothing special. The bucket racing seats were stylish and comfortable but I just expected more from the belly of the beast.  It seemed very boring instead of sporty and creative, but I suppose when you buy this car it’s more for the external styling and the power.

Unfortunately there were some faults on the car.  The wheels were way too small for such a bulky car and such wide wheel arches.  The brakes were the next let down; although I’m sure that they are ample to stop the Subaru, they just didn't seem very responsive initially. I had to really push them before getting actual stopping power.  The price of the WRX is not the prettiest, and although this is a Subaru WRX, one of the most well-known names in motor sport, I just don’t think it’s worth it. It’s currently in a very high price bracket, and unless something changes, this will no longer be known as an amazing toy but a sophisticated trophy.