In this rivalry, we compare two of the class-leading C-Segment hot hatches – the VW Golf VII GTI (facelift) TCR and the Ford Focus ST MK4. Both models are the flagship versions in terms of FWD performance, sporty setup and styling.

The racing-inspired VW Golf VII GTI TCR is based on the seventh generation of the Golf which launched back in 2012, even though the platform has received numerous updates since then. With the Golf VIII GTI just around the corner (scheduled to be unveiled in 2020), the TCR is considered to be the swan song of this generation and the ultimate FWD Golf to date.

The Ford Focus ST MK4, on the other hand, was launched in 2019, a year after the reveal of the all-new fourth-generation Focus. Like its predecessor, it is available with petrol and diesel engines, and five-door hatchback or station wagon bodystyles. The car features improved performance thanks to the larger 2,3-liter engine inherited from the Ford Focus RS MK3.

So now we know the basics, let’s start with a design battle and then we can move on to the official specifications.

Exterior

Interior

Engine

Specifications

Model	VW Golf VII GTI (facelift) TCR	Ford Focus ST MK4
Production	2019-2020	2019-present
Segment	C	C
Doors	3/5	5
Layout	FWD	FWD
Engine Displacement	1984 cm3	2264 cm3
Cylinders	L4	L4
Induction	Turbocharged	Turbocharged
Fuel	Gasoline	Gasoline
Fuel System	Direct and Port Injection	Direct Injection
Power (hp)	290	280
Power (kw)	213	206
Power (@rpm)	@5400-6400 rpm	@5500 rpm
Torque (Nm)	380	420
Torque (@rpm)	@1800-5300 rpm	@3000-4000 rpm
0-100km/h	5,6 sec	5,7 sec
Top Speed (km/h)	260 km/h	250 km/h
Top Speed (mph)	162 mph	155 mph
Consumption (lt/100km)	6,7	7,9
CO2 (g/km)	151 g/km	179 g/km
Gearbox	7 AT	6 MT / 7 AT
Weight	1410 kg	1508 kg
Length	4258 mm	4388 mm
Width	1799 mm	1979 mm
Height	1492 mm	1458 mm
Wheelbase	2626 mm	2700 mm
Front Track	1534 mm	1567 mm
Rear Track	1549 mm	1556 mm
Boot Space	380	375
Tire Size	235/35 R19	235/35 R19
Front Brakes	340 mm Ventilated Discs	330 mm Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes	310 mm Ventilated Discs	302 mm Discs

So which one would you prefer;

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