ST-Line, or ST-Line with a kiss?
We’re not sure if it actually does, but the X might as well stand for ‘extra equipment’. Ford has offered Titanium X, Active X and ST-Line X on top of the standard Titanium, Active and ST-Line trim levels in recent years, and all follow a similar pattern.
Both the ST-Line versions echo the aggressive styling of the ferocious but thirsty Ford Focus ST. So, if you want a Ford Focus in one of its sporty-looking trims, should you choose the standard ST-Line or the upgraded ST-Line X?
Ford Focus ST-Line vs ST-Line X compared
| Ford Focus ST-Line | Ford Focus ST-Line X |
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Specification and standard equipment
ST-Line has been a key part of the Focus’ line-up for over a decade, and over time Ford has added more equipment. We’re, er, focusing on the most recent Focus, which was facelifted in 2022.
ST-Line standard equipment:
- 17-inch grey alloy wheels
- Red stitching on steering wheel, gearshifter and seats
- Large touchscreen with sat nav, voice control and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Fabric sports seats
- LED headlights and tail-lights
- Rear parking sensors
- Cruise control
- Tinted rear windows
- Heated windscreen
ST-Line X standard equipment (ST-Line plus the following):
- 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels
- Heated seats
- Leather or part-leather seats
- Digital dials
- Wireless phone charging
- Premium sound system
Cost and value
The Focus ST-Line is typically a bit cheaper than the ST-Line X, and so you could get a marginally newer or lower-mileage ST-Line for your budget. Or an automatic gearbox instead of a manual.
But there are so many available for sale on the used market that finding an ST-Line X for your budget shouldn’t be difficult. And, given that some of the extras fitted to ST-Line X are quite desirable – for example, the heated seats and premium sound system – the price difference really isn’t much at all.
The ST-Line X sits in fractionally higher insurance groups than the ST-Line, which could add a couple of pence to your insurance premium. Tyres are slightly cheaper for the ST-Line’s 17-inch wheels but, again, the difference isn’t enough to sway your decision one way or the other.
Which is best?
If you’re happy with the equipment that ST-Line gets, you’ll be able to drive away in a very slightly newer or lower-mileage car. The smaller wheels should improve ride comfort a little and are ever so slightly cheaper to get tyres for.
But given the marginal difference in price, we’d be sorely tempted to go for the ST-Line X. Not only do its bigger wheels look great, but the heated seats and wireless phone charging add a feel-good factor.
Shop used Ford Focus ST-Line cars and used Ford Focus ST-Line X cars for sale, or read our Ford Focus review.
