HOT on the heels of Vauxhall’s scorching Astra VXR comes Ford’s riposte, the 223bhp Focus ST.

Powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the hottest Focus offers 0-62mph acceleration in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 150mph, with prices starting at £17,495.

Standard equipment on all models includes 18-inch alloy wheels and bodykit, Recaro seats and a six-speed manual gearbox. ST2 models, priced at £18,495, add a Sony CD player, Xenon headlamps, heated front windscreen and ESP traction and stability management. The top-spec ST3 costs £19,495 and gains 10-way adjustable Recaro seats, full leather trim and a six-CD player.