Being able to put its 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque (more than previously reported) to the ground translates to a projected zero-to-60 miles per hour sprint of just 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 165 miles per hour. This is why the manufacturer has announced a new version of the Focus: the RS, which will inherit from the turbocharged 2.3-litre engine that now resides in the Lincoln MKC and the Mustang Ecoboost. Try doing that on the front-wheel drive Focus ST. There’s also a launch control function that only requires drivers to engage first gear, apply full throttle, and release the clutch. And speaking of tires (or tyres), all that power is routed through all four wheels thanks to Ford’s clever AWD system which maximizes torque and traction as well as the damper settings.
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Victor of our recent hot-hatch triple test, Honda’s front-wheel-drive 306bhp Civic Type R starts from £29,995 and the absorbing-to-drive, harder-to-live-with (and soon to be replaced) Renaultsport Megane virtually ties with the Focus at £28,930 in 271bhp Nav 275 Trophy trim.
Ford has shared some additional details regarding the high-performance Focus RS hatch. To make sure that every driver gets the best out of each gear, the RS also features a performance shift light in the instrument cluster. This, along with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, means that the RS will be able to be driven quickly regardless of the conditions. Focus RS drivers can select between four different driving modes; Normal, Sport or track settings are available. The latest auto will be the 30th vehicle to wear Ford’s RS badge.
The new Ford Focus RS is set to launch early next year, but is available to order now.
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UPDATE: As Oppo user fourvalleys points out, $35,730 is apparently the official price on Ford’s website as of this morning.
