As Ford’s first global performance vehicle, it is important for the Focus ST to get it right in all major markets it is sold. Featuring more or less identical specs in all the countries where it is available, the Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline engine delivering 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft (365 Nm) of torque.

Jay Leno had Focus ST chief engineer Jamal Hameedi explain the main features of the Euro-flavored hot-hatch, with the talk show host and car collector then taking the car for a drive.

Leno says he was impressed from the instant response and power of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, as well as its practicality as it can be used for daily driving or even as an only car.

The comedian added that he enjoyed the Focus ST’s handling and congratulated Ford for fitting the car with a six-speed manual transmission, which is pretty rare in the United States. Scroll down to find what else Leno had to say about the hot Ford.

By Dan Mihalascu

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