Ken Block debuted Gymkhana FIVE to over nine million viewers in just the first two days, thrilling fans with the fifth installment of the award-winning viral video franchise. The impressive landscape, iconic landmarks, and a classic appearance by Travis Pastrana provided Block the chance to do only the unthinkable and shocking.
“The goal is to always make the next one better, which is tough, because every time I finish one of these I think it’s the best one yet,” said Block.
“When we found out that San Francisco was actually available as a location, that’s when the gears started turning about what we could do, how we could utilize the unique terrain within the city. Once I knew I’d be able to jump streets I was able to envision certain tricks, like the jump drift.”
Before Block filmed the epic routes highlighted in Gymkhana FIVE: Ultimate Urban Playground;San Francisco in his Ford Fiesta (H.F.H.V), he utilized the Focus ST, Ford’s first true global performance car, on a scouting trip through San Francisco to plan the masterpiece. In true form, the 252-horsepower (Europe 250 PS) Focus ST was used as Block’s everyday solution for Gymkhana. The Focus ST was aggressively driven on the scout, and it was confronted with overwhelmingly steep streets, hairpin turns and the occasional trolley, which Block executed with unique flair.
“The Focus ST was a lot of fun to rip around San Francisco in, especially with all of the torque on those hills. It’s nice to finally be able to drive the same hot-tuned Fords that Europe always gets, here in America,” said Block.
“The handling’s good in the ST, it’s definitely a fun, quick car that enjoys being driven hard. I’m actually eagerly awaiting mine to be delivered later this year.”
Block can be seen putting the Focus ST through its paces in the ever-engaging credits at the end of the video. The integration stems from a partnership with DC Shoes, Block’s passion for performance and his connection with a generation of enthusiasts who appreciate what cars like the Focus ST have to offer.
“I think it’s great that Ford is finally bringing this product over here to the American consumer. There’s always been a demand for this sort of car from the enthusiasts here and I think they’re going to embrace it once it’s available at the dealership.”
Ford’s partnership with Block has rapidly expanded into additional integration plans with the launch of Focus ST in the states.
“I’m actually working on a top-secret project with both Ford and one of the top names in small car tuning here in the States,” he said. “I can’t tell you much more than that right now though!”
A first-ever look at what it took to bring Gymkhana FIVE to life in a special behind-the-scenes edit is expected to be released in late August.
Watch Ken Block's Gymkhana 5 below.
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