The color design is pretty hideous.

http://www.carbuzz.com/news/2011/9/14/Frankfurt-2011-Ford-Focus-ST-R-7704801/
http://alt-a.bitg.net/nightmobile/cars/images2/90000/5000/300/95349.jpg

Soooooo.......what will be different on this than on a stock ST, besides the fact it has no interior, a racing seat and some racing hooks, buckles and straps. Will the engine be tuned different as well as the suspension?

Yes it is going to have a better suspension. there were a few threads about this already, with a little more information.

You'd think there would be a stronger, more reliable shifter design with a shorter shifter.

Too many doors.