The Ford Focus ST is already a standout in the hot hatch category, known for its punchy turbocharged engine and sharp handling. But even great can get better.
After installing the maXpeedingrods T6 Series Coilovers on my 2015 Focus ST, I realized just how much untapped potential was hiding under the stock suspension. Whether you're carving canyon roads or hunting down lap times, this upgrade delivers a level of precision and control that transforms the driving experience.
With testing data showing that properly tuned coilovers can shave up to 3.2 seconds off lap times on technical circuits, the value proposition becomes hard to ignore. Let's dive deep into what makes the T6 Series a compelling upgrade for the 2013–2018 Focus ST platform.
What Makes the T6 Series Stand Out?
Plenty of coilover kits promise performance, but the T6 Series backs it up with engineering tailored to Focus ST owners who demand both street comfort and weekend performance.
- 24-Way Damping Adjustability
Fine-tune your suspension behavior to match daily drives, spirited backroad sprints, or all-out track days. The damping range is logically divided into performance tiers to simplify setup.
- Robust Spring Construction
Featuring 55CrSi high-tensile steel, the springs are tested over 600,000 cycles with less than 0.04% distortion. This ensures reliable, consistent performance long-term.
- Corrosion-Resistant Components
Anodized shock bodies paired with a specialized anti-corrosion coating fend off road salt and moisture—ideal for those in harsher climates or year-round driving.
- Pillow Ball Top Mounts
Usually found in pricier setups, these mounts improve steering precision and feedback, especially under load during aggressive cornering.
Backed by a 2-Year Warranty
A solid warranty shows the brand stands behind its components, offering peace of mind alongside performance gains.
Installation and Compatibility
Fitment issues can ruin any mod experience. Fortunately, the T6 Series was engineered with the Focus ST platform in mind.
- True Bolt-On Design
No cutting, welding, or hacking necessary. The kit lines up perfectly with factory mounting points.
- Complete Hardware Kit
All essential components are included—upper mounts, locking collars, and fasteners—saving you from unexpected trips to the hardware store.
- Install Time & Tools
Expect 4–6 hours for installation, best handled with a lift and a proper torque wrench. Enthusiasts with some wrenching experience should manage fine.
OEM and Aftermarket Wheel Support
The coilovers accommodate most wheel setups. However, very aggressive offsets may require spacers.
Suspension tuning can seem daunting, but the T6 Series makes it straightforward with a wide range of height and damping adjustments.
- Height Adjustment: 25–75mm Lower
Drop it for a sportier stance or fine-tune for track-specific geometry. The sweet spot lies in improving handling while preserving practicality.
- Three Tiers of Damping Settings:
* Street (0–8): Prioritizes comfort with subtle firmness—ideal for daily driving.
* Backroads (9–16): Boosts responsiveness without sacrificing ride quality.
* Track (17–24): Maximizes damping control to minimize body roll and maximize grip.
- Spring Rates
A balanced 6 kg/mm (336 lbs/in) front and rear keeps handling predictable and neutral—no surprise understeer or tail-happy oversteer.
Preload Sweet Spot: 7–10mm
Enough to maintain spring engagement without stiffening the ride unnecessarily.
Real-World Driving Improvements
Once installed and dialed in, the difference is immediately apparent.
- Reduced Body Roll
The car stays flatter through turns, keeping tires planted and improving grip.
- Sharper Steering Response
Pillow ball mounts enhance front-end communication. Steering inputs translate quicker and more accurately.
- Improved Corner Exit Traction
Better weight distribution means more balanced power delivery exiting curves—less wheel spin, more speed.
- Predictable Handling
Whether transitioning through chicanes or pulling off evasive maneuvers, the car feels composed and controlled.
- Lowered Center of Gravity
Enhances aerodynamics and stability, especially at higher speeds.
Best of all, if you soften the damping settings, you still get a compliant ride for commuting without sacrificing all that performance potential.
How It Stacks Up in the Market
At a price point of roughly $399.99 USD, the maXpeedingrods T6 Series hits a sweet spot between budget kits and premium setups.
- Better Than Budget Brands
Compared to options under $300, the T6 Series offers better material quality, damping control, and warranty support.
- Competitive With Mid-Range Rivals
Despite a lower price tag, it rivals mid-tier offerings from BC Racing and Fortune Auto in functionality and build.
- Much More Affordable Than Premium Kits
Coilovers from KW or Öhlins easily top $1,000—over twice the price for incremental gains most daily drivers won’t fully exploit.
Wide Availability
Easily sourced via Amazon, eBay, and various specialty retailers—no need to chase down niche suppliers.
An Ideal Suspension Upgrade for Enthusiasts on a Budget
If you're serious about elevating your Focus ST's performance without draining your wallet, the maXpeedingrods T6 Series deserves your attention. It may not match the refinement of a $1,200 setup, but it delivers 80% of the capability at a fraction of the cost.
With its thoughtful engineering, robust construction, and daily-driver compatibility, this coilover kit hits a rare trifecta of value, performance, and reliability.
Whether you're gunning for quicker track laps or simply want more confidence in every turn, this might just be the most cost-effective way to transform your ST.