Top 5 Modified Fords You’ll See on UK Roads
Discover the top 5 modified Fords in the UK – from the Fiesta ST to the Focus RS. See why these models are loved by tuners and what upgrades make them stand out.
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The UK has a long-standing love affair with fast Fords. Whether it’s track days, car meets, or spirited B-road blasts, modified Fords are everywhere. Here are five of the most commonly modified Ford models seen on UK roads, and why they remain so popular among enthusiasts.
Ford Fiesta ST (Mk7 & Mk8)
Maybe the king of hot hatches, the Fiesta ST is valued for its booming turbocharged engine and go-kart handling. Lots of owners enjoy fitting stage 1 and 2 remaps, upgraded intercoolers, sports exhausts, and dropped springs to push its already phenomenal performance. Visual mods like Maxton Design splitters and rally mud flaps are also popular.
Suggested Mods:
- Full Cat Back System– The boosted MK7 and MK8 see nice gains from a full exhaust system
- LSD (Limited Slip Differential)– Already an engaging chassis an LSD is a great addition for those looking for even better handling and is a must for running big power.
- Lowering– Same as the LSD, having either coilovers or lowering springs builds on top of an already great platform.
Ford Focus RS (Mk2 & Mk3)
The RS badge is the stuff of legend, and Mk2 & Mk3 Focus RS cars are giant tuning opportunities. With AWD and a 2.3L EcoBoost motor, the Mk3 in particular is extremely tolerant of remaps, big turbo kits, and upgraded suspension. It’s a popular choice for track projects and extreme street setups.
Suggested Mods:
- Bigger Intercooler– A bigger front mounted intercooler is essential on both the MK2 and MK3 for those looking to go “Stage 2” or higher.
- Intake– A cold air intake will improve air flow, and great turbo noises. Companies like Cobb offer a carbon intake which pairs nicely with their tuning accessport.
- Tuning– ECU Flashing Devices are a great affordable way of tuning an RS. You will often see big power gains as well as being able to monitor different aspects of your engine in real time and create logs.
Ford Focus ST (Mk2 & Mk3)
A cheaper alternative to the RS, the Focus ST continues to punch well above its class. The Mk2 2.5L 5-cylinder and Mk3 2.0L EcoBoost engines are highly tunable. They commonly come with cat-back exhausts, induction kits, enhanced intercoolers, and ECU remaps installed by owners.
Best Mods:
- LSD– Running big power through a FWD can create it’s own problems, an LSD will help with that.
- Downpipe– Both the MK2 and MK3 ST see gains of around 15% from a downpipe alone due to the stock system being so restrictive.
- Styling– The ST looks very much like a normal Focus, especially when compared to the RS. A simple diffuser, spoiler and splitter can really change the entire look of the car.
Ford Puma ST
One of the newer faces in the Ford Performance lineup, the Puma ST borrows a lot of its DNA from the Fiesta ST but with SUV practicality. Upgrades are likewise similar: sports exhausts, ECU remaps, and high-output intake systems add to unleashing extra power.
Ford Mondeo ST220
A bit of a cult car, the ST220 has a normally aspirated V6 that sounds absolutely fantastic when fitted with a performance exhaust. While not as popular with young tuners, it has a loyal following which enjoys enhancing both its looks and its performance.
Fast Ford Legacy
Tuned Fords are part of the UK tuning heritage. Cheap, tuning-sensitive, and serviced by a gigantic aftermarket, no wonder they can be found anywhere from car meets to your local Tesco parking lot down the street.
If you have any questions or looking for a particular mod for your Ford then feel free to email us on sales@modcentraluk.com. Or message us directly on Instagram