Some people are saying that it's cost cutting, but I have another theory on why bits were removed. The chrome part around the front fog lamps and the styled side repeater would have looked pretty dodgy on a silver car. I guess when they first revealed the ST they hadn't yet decided what colours they would offer it in.
Also, interesting that there are quite a few similarities between Honda's Type-R brand and what Ford are trying to do with ST - revvy N/A engines, red logo, and only Silver / Red / Black cars like the Civic Type-R was initially.
_________________________
Dave | Focus RS