Last month, we shared with you some important info about the new Ford Focus ST, namely: pricing and specs. What we couldn't tell you, at the time, is whether or not it would be as fun to drive as it seemed. But, now we can tell you: it most definitely is.

One might worry that it just looks fast and fun, and that $24,495 starting price is simply for the sport seats and extra spoilers. But this is not the case: it's powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out a mighty 247 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. It sends all of that power to the 18-inch wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The first driver to take one for a spin at Inside Line proclaims, "In short, it's an animal."¹

They then go on to talk about all of the elements that come together to turn this otherwise fairly humble economy hatchback into a racetrack ready speedster. Thanks to Ford's "sound symposer" system, which amplifies the good noises in the exhaust, it sounds beefier than you would normally expect from a four-cylinder engine. While 0-60 sprint times haven't been released just yet, early figures suggest a six second time - easily.

But then, it's a performance car from its variable-ratio steering system to its turbocharged engine to low ride height. "Find a track and turn off the switchable stability control and you'll discover the 2013 Ford Focus ST will do ridiculous stuff. It's happy to pitch you into full opposite lock before the apex with a rear wheel waving in the air, yet sufficiently stable to require you to do no more than stomp back on the gas to set you straight again."²

Is it at home in the suburbs of America as it is on the track? You bet.

You'll just have to see that for yourself now, won't you? It'll be here this summer, and arranging a test drive is as easy as dropping us a line on our website. Or, stop into Jim Tidwell Ford later this season during our regular business hours - we're located at 2205 Barrett Lakes Blvd Kennesaw, GA 30144.

Source: ^1,2http://www.insideline.com/ford/focus/2013/2013-ford-focus-st-first-drive.html