Based on the images leaked to carscoops.com, the expected final spy shots confirms those of the ones seen previously, with the ST differentiating itself from lesser models in the form of a black honeycomb grille, model specific front and rear bumpers, wider door sills, a grey front splitter, gloss black integrated boot spoiler, red front and rear brake calipers, black alloy wheels, a faux diffuser with grey surrounds, dual exhaust outlets and the signature Tangerine Scream paint finish.

As previously seen, the interior differs little from the regular Focus with additions consisting of Recaro sport seats with red ST embossed seatbacks and silver stitching, an ST branded leather wrapped steering wheel also with silver stitching, and faux carbon trim on the dashboard.

Up front, and following a series of conflicting reports, the ST will come powered by the same 2.3 EcoBoost engine powering the Mustang and the previous Focus RS, but detuned to deliver the same 184kW as the outgoing 2.0 EcoBoost due being front-wheel drive as opposed to all-wheel drive.

Although the model pictured came fitted with what will be the standard gearbox option, a six-speed manual, the new eight-speed automatic will be offered as option for the first time to rival the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI DSG and the Renault Megane RS Lux EDC.

Slated to have made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year, the ST is now only anticipated to debut at a later stage after the Blue Oval’s recent announcement that it, along with Jaguar Land Rover and Volvo, would not be attending the Swiss showpiece.