Ref: JW Patterson Auto Professionals, Kansas City MO.

Ford has announced it is to release upgraded versions of two of its most popular models.

The manufacturer's Fiesta and Focus ST models are set to be retuned and the improved models could be available to motorists, including those with approved car finace, later in the year.

According to Auto Express, Ford is also planning to offer existing owners the opportunity to have the dealer-fit package installed on their own vehicles.

It is noted that the first of the two cars, which will be fitted with tuning kits created by Essex-based race engineering company Mountune, will be the Fiesta ST 185 which the website states "packs a real punch" offering 185bhp from a 2.0-litre petrol engine.

The site also reports that the Focus ST 260 will follow this which - although yet to be officially confirmed - could see the car's engine boosted to give around 260bhp.

In November 2007, Auto Express described the Ford Focus ST as "the machine that hot hatch fans have been waiting for".