Whether you own a Fiesta ST150, Fiesta ST Mk7, Focus ST170, Focus ST225, Focus Mk3 ST, Focus RS, or even the legendary Escort or Sierra RS Cosworth, upgrading your suspension bushes is one of the most effective ways to improve handling, steering precision and driver confidence.
Factory rubber bushes naturally deteriorate over time. Heat cycles, oil contamination and years of hard driving cause the rubber to soften and crack, allowing unwanted movement throughout the suspension. The result is vague steering, poor braking stability, uneven tyre wear and reduced cornering performance.
This is where polyurethane bushes come into their own.
Two of the most talked-about names in the performance Ford scene are Powerflex and GodFlex. Both manufacture high-quality polyurethane suspension bushes designed to replace the original rubber components, but which one is right for your build?
Let's take a closer look.
Why Upgrade Suspension Bushes?
Many Ford ST and RS models are now over 10 years old, with some classics approaching 25–40 years of age. Even low-mileage cars will often have worn bushes.
Replacing tired rubber bushes with polyurethane alternatives can provide:
- Sharper steering response
- Improved cornering stability
- More consistent suspension geometry
- Better braking stability
- Reduced wheel hop
- Longer service life than OEM rubber
- Improved driver confidence
Unlike rubber, polyurethane is far more resistant to oil, fuel, road salt and ageing, meaning it maintains its shape and performance for many years.
Powerflex Bushes
Powerflex has become one of the best-known polyurethane bush manufacturers in Europe, producing bushes in the UK since the mid-1990s. Their range includes Road Series, Heritage Collection and Black Series products for everything from daily drivers to dedicated race cars. They manufacture in-house and back their products with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Huge product range
- Excellent reputation worldwide
- Proven motorsport pedigree
- Lifetime warranty
- Road and track compounds available
- Extensive Ford ST and RS coverage
Powerflex Black Series bushes are aimed at track and motorsport users, using a harder 95A polyurethane compound to maximise suspension control and maintain wheel alignment under high loads.
GodFlex Bushes
GodFlex is a newer British performance bush manufacturer that has quickly gained attention within the Ford community. The company focuses on precision-engineered polyurethane bushes combined with lightweight CNC-machined aluminium sleeves.
One of their standout design features is a unique grease-retaining system, designed to hold PTFE-enhanced silicone grease where it's needed. This helps maintain smooth operation and long-term lubrication, particularly in demanding road and track environments.
Pros
- British-made
- CNC-machined aluminium sleeves
- Innovative grease-retaining design
- PTFE-enhanced lubrication
- Strong focus on performance applications
- Expanding Ford ST & RS range
For enthusiasts wanting modern engineering with a focus on installation quality and long-term durability, GodFlex has become an increasingly attractive option.
Powerflex vs GodFlex Comparison
| Feature | Powerflex | GodFlex |
|---|---|---|
| British Manufactured | ✔ | ✔ |
| Polyurethane Construction | ✔ | ✔ |
| CNC Aluminium Sleeves | On selected products | ✔ |
| Motorsport Focus | ✔ | ✔ |
| Lifetime Warranty | ✔ | Check individual product |
| Grease Retention Design | Standard | Advanced grease-retaining design |
| Ford ST & RS Coverage | Extensive | Growing rapidly |
Which Bushes Are Best for a Ford Fiesta ST?
Popular upgrades include:
- Front wishbone bushes
- Rear beam bushes
- Engine mount bushes
- Gearbox mount bushes
- Anti-roll bar bushes
Whether you're driving an ST150 on B-roads or building a turbocharged Mk7 Fiesta ST for track days, polyurethane bushes noticeably reduce unwanted suspension movement and improve steering accuracy.
Best Bushes for the Focus ST & Focus RS
Owners of the Focus ST225, Mk3 Focus ST and Focus RS often report improvements in:
- Steering precision
- Front-end grip
- Cornering confidence
- Braking stability
- Reduced wheel hop under acceleration
As these cars age, replacing worn factory bushes can make the suspension feel significantly tighter without changing springs or dampers. Powerflex has developed dedicated solutions for several Focus ST and RS steering and suspension applications.
Should You Fit Every Bush in Polyurethane?
Not necessarily.
For most road-going Ford ST and RS owners, replacing the highest-wear bushes first provides the greatest benefit.
A sensible upgrade order is:
- Rear beam bushes
- Front wishbone rear bushes
- Engine mount bushes
- Gearbox mount bushes
- Anti-roll bar bushes
- Rear suspension arm bushes
This approach delivers noticeable improvements while keeping installation costs manageable.
Which Brand Should You Choose?
The good news is that there isn't a bad choice here.
Choose Powerflex if you:
- Want a long-established brand
- Need the widest product selection
- Plan a dedicated track or motorsport build
- Value the reassurance of a lifetime warranty
Choose GodFlex if you:
- Want British-made performance bushes with modern engineering
- Appreciate innovative features such as grease-retaining designs
- Prefer lightweight CNC-machined components
- Are building a fast-road or performance-focused Ford ST or RS
Ultimately, both brands offer a substantial upgrade over ageing factory rubber bushes. Your decision may come down to the specific application, availability for your vehicle, and the features you value most.
Final Thoughts
Suspension bushes are often overlooked, yet they are one of the highest-value upgrades you can make to any Ford performance car. Whether you're restoring a classic Escort RS Turbo, sharpening a Fiesta ST150 for weekend drives, or preparing a Focus RS for track days, quality polyurethane bushes transform the way the car feels.
Both Powerflex and GodFlex produce high-quality British-engineered products that improve handling, reduce unwanted suspension movement and increase long-term durability compared with worn OEM rubber bushes.
Whichever route you choose, replacing tired suspension bushes is an investment you'll notice every time you turn the steering wheel.
Looking for bushes for your Ford? Browse our range of GodFlex Performance Bushes and find the perfect upgrade for your Fiesta ST, Focus ST, Focus RS and other Ford performance models.
