The 2013 Focus ST marks the first real effort by Ford to deliver a serious performance hatchback since the underwhelming SVT Focus of the mid-2000’s. And frankly, it has a hell of a lot more going for it than that half-hearted attempt, starting with the 252 horsepower 2.0 liter EcoBoost engine. Add to that a fine-tuned suspension, limited slip differential, and aerodynamic design, and you’ve got what could be the best performance car in its segment…and out of it too.

Ford has rounded up most of its world-class drivers, including Ken Block, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Brian Deegan, Tanner Foust for a Focus ST showdown, pitting it against a whole slew of competitors. Gee, we wonder how this will turn out?

The teaser video shows a whole bunch of Ford’s biggest stars showing up for the showdown that will include cars from across different segments and continents. Among the competitors is a Volkswagen GTI, a BMW M3, a Subaru WRX, a Honda Civic (Si?), and probably plenty of more that we didn’t see yet.

Ford will begin airing episodes of the web series, which they are calling “Focus ST Sessions”, on July 31st. Make no mistake, this is a huge marketing effort on Ford’s part, one that is bound to draw a lot of eyeballs…and probably a lot of criticism as well. But Ford seems really confident in the new ST, and more like than not it is for good reason. Stay tuned, Focus ST Sessions begins July 31st.