Best Modifications for the Ford Focus ST225 Engine
Unlock the full potential of your Ford Focus ST225 with the best performance mods. From exhaust upgrades to turbo tuning, here’s how to get more power!
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The Ford Focus ST225, powered by the legendary 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder engine, is one of the most tuneable hot hatches on the market. With its volvo-derived engine, the ST225 has massive tuning potential, offering huge power gains with just a few simple mods.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best modifications to extract more power, improve handling, and enhance the overall driving experience of your Focus ST225.
Limited Slip differential (lsd)
Once you start to put more power through the ST225 traction issues quickly become a problem, along with torque steer. After a good set of tyres the best ting you can do for putting power down and predictability is to have a limited slip differential (LSD). Quaiffe is one of the best brands out there and is the one that we would choose.
Positives of a Limited Slip Differential:
- Track Benefits – More predictable and controlled cornering on road and track.
- Less Understeer – With both wheels getting power to them, you will experience less understeer.
- Traction – Better traction when applying the power more aggressively.
ECU Remap
If you’re looking for huge power gains, a remap (ECU tune) is the best mod you can do on a car with forced induction. The stock ST225 engine is heavily detuned, and with a simple Stage 1 remap, you can unlock serious horsepower and torque gains.
Tuning Stages Explained:
- Remap only (Stage 1) – Works with stock components, increasing power to 260-280bhp.
- Hardware and Remap (Stage 2) – Requires supporting mods like an exhaust, intake, and intercooler, pushing power to 300bhp+.
- Hyrbid turbo (Stage 3) – With a bigger turbo and fueling upgrades, you can exceed 350bhp.
Performance Exhaust System – More Power, More Sound
One of the first mods every ST225 owner should consider is a high-performance exhaust system. The stock system is restrictive, and upgrading to a turbo-back or cat-back system improves airflow, allowing the engine to breathe better.
Recommended Exhaust Mods:
- Turbo-back exhaust – Maximum performance, but requires a remap.
- Sports cat or decat downpipe – Improves turbo spool and power gains.
- Cat-back exhaust – Increases sound without triggering ECU errors.
Power Gains: Up to 20-30bhp with a full turbo-back system.
Front Mount Intercooler (FMIC)
The stock intercooler on the Focus ST225 is prone to heat soak, particularly when running more power. An upgraded front mount intercooler (FMIC) helps keep intake temperatures lower, resulting in consistent power delivery and reliability.
Why Upgrade the Intercooler?
- Prevents heat soak, especially in warmer weather or hard driving.
- Allows for higher boost levels without engine knock.
- Essential for Stage 2+ remaps.
There are no direct power gains from a bigger intercooler, but improves reliability and consistency at higher power levels.
Upgraded Turbo & Wastegate Actuator
For those chasing big power, upgrading the turbocharger is the only way to hit 350-400bhp+. The stock K04 turbo is capable but does run out of steam. A hybrid turbo or a BorgWarner K16 upgrade unlocks the full potential of the 5 cylinder engine.
Best Turbo Upgrades:
- Hybrid K04 Turbo – Direct bolt-on, capable of 350bhp.
- BorgWarner K16 Turbo – More lag but can push 400bhp+.
- Upgraded Wastegate Actuator – Helps hold boost more efficiently and can help with lag caused by a bigger turbo.
50-150bhp, depending on the turbo setup.
Bonus Mods for Maximum Performance
- Upgraded Fuel Pump & Injectors – Essential for higher boost levels.
- Short Shifter – Improves gear changes for a sportier feel.
- Lowering Springs or Coilovers – Improves handling and reduces body roll.
- Upgraded Brakes – Essential for stopping power, especially with big power builds.
Best Mods for the Focus ST225
Modification | Estimated Power Gains | Recommended For |
Turbo-back Exhaust | 20-30bhp | Better turbo response & sound |
Limited Slip DIfferential | No Power Gains | Improved handling and traction |
Stage 1 Remap | 40-50bhp | Best value for performance gains |
Intercooler Upgrade | No Power Gains | Better cooling for tuned engines |
Hybrid Turbo Upgrade | 50-150bhp | Big power builds |
With just a few key mods, you can easily transform the Focus ST225 into a serious performance machine. Whether you’re looking for better sound, sharper handling, or big horsepower gains, these modifications will help you get the most out of your 2.5L 5-cylinder turbo.