Vortech / Universal Technical Institute 2014 Ford Focus ST

Power Up

focus-st-vortech-uti-143-004At this point of the build, the Focus looked the part, but the crew deemed it necessary to optimize the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine for added performance. Because of this, only a handful of carefully selected modifications were added. The list of upgrades included a direct-swap Vortech intercooler system to cool discharge temperatures and a Motiv Concepts downpipe was fitted to the turbocharger to channel spent gasses to a custom dual side Magnaflow exhaust system.

The final product was tuned by Vortech for a maximum horsepower reading of 246.88 and 334.22 lb-ft of torque as measured on Dynojet rollers.


Heat Exchange Solution

focus-st-vortech-uti-143-005The turbocharged and intercooled Focus ST has been stateside for a relatively short time compared to other vehicles in the sport compact market. Thus, the aftermarket support for this platform leave a lot of room for improvement.

Vortech stepped up with its bolt-on front-mount intercooler solution. This intercooler features a bar and plate core that is a direct swap in for the stock unit. No cutting or modification is required.


The Big Reveal & Giveaway

focus-st-vortech-uti-143-003Ford Focus ST Vortech UTI DSPORT Magazine #143As the deadline approached, the team worked diligently to complete the car for the SEMA show. As promised, on the first day of the show, the finished product made its debut at the Ford Motor Company booth. All the hard work was well worth it as the Focus went on to win the Ford Design Award, the Mother’s Shine Award as well as several Top 10 recognitions by various media outlets. The Focus’ moments of fame didn’t end there however as the car continues to be one of the main display cars on the Tjin Edition RoadShow, traveling the country for 12 months to more then 35 automotive shows giving many enthusiasts the chance to view this beast for themselves. What’s even better than taking a look however, is the fact that this Focus will also go to a lucky winner as UTI plans to give away the car by the end of 2014.