The Sport badge – it’s one of those things that manufacturers like to stick onto the back of a model to give it a feeling of extra performance. After all, if it says Sport on the back then it must be sporty. Right? If only that were the case.
The new Ford Focus Sport is a perfect example. Take a mid-range Focus Zetec with either 99bhp 1.6-litre petrol or 108bhp diesel engine, stick on some 16-inch ST-style alloys and throw in a few toys and then call it the ‘Sport’.
Does that make it any sportier than the Zetec? No, not really. It is a bit of a bargain though, as you get over £1500 worth of extras but pay only £700 over the Zetec, and that includes the following:
- Sat-nav
- Bluetooth
- USB connectivity
- Voice control
- Auto headlamps
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Self-dimming rear-view mirror
- Rear parking sensors
On the bright side the Sport comes with the Zetec’s suspension setup that does give a more entertaining ride than the budget models, but the engine line-up is far from exciting. The petrol engine is smooth if underpowered, although the diesel engine combines a healthy does of torque with 60mpg+ in the real world.
The retail prices are £16,545 for the 1.6-litre petrol and £17,845 for the 1.6-litre TDCi, but it might be worth waiting until dealers are desperate to clear out any remaining stock early in the new year.
That’s a tough one.
The first Mk1 Escort Sport had a tuned version of the 1.3-litre engine with Webber carburettors, I suppose that counts.
Good thread idea this. Name any ‘Sport’ badged models that actually do warrant it by way of improved performance or handling.
I’ll start:
Subuaru Impreza 2000 Sport
Various BMW M-Sport models