Ford has released details of the new Focus RS model prior to its official unveiling Leipzig Motor Show. Designed for power and performance, the RS range was based on the iconic Ford rally cars first released in 1970. Production of the current Ford Focus RS will cease this year but Ford has announced the limited edition Focus RS 500 as a final celebration of the sporty model. As the RS 500 name suggests, only 500 units of the Focus RS will be produced, each with a unique identification number from 001 to 500. In keeping with the Rally Sport name, the Focus RS features a powerful engine in the shape of an enhanced 345bhp turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine from the standard Ford Focus. The result of the refinement is an impressive 0-62mph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of around 163mph. “The more urgent engine sound and sheer thrust of the mid-range performance tell the driver immediately that this is not a standard Focus RS,” said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford’s global C-car vehicle line director. “With 15 per cent more power and the same gutsy, sporting character, our new powertrain gives the RS500 the special engine it deserves,” he added. Ford claims the Focus RS will approach eight minute times around the famous Nurburgring track after testing the car for over 500 laps around the circuit. Surprisingly, the Ford Focus RS will be front wheel drive, and will feature a larger exhaust, downpipe and air-to-air intercooler.



Available only in matte black, the new Focus RS boasts metallic black alloy wheels, twin blade rear spoiler, red brake callipers, RS badging and unique red interior detailing. In the build up to the launch of the Focus RS, Ford posted a video of the car being driven around a track at night, although today is the first time pictures of the car have been released. The car will make its world debut at the 2010 Leipzig Motor Show in Germany on 9 April, after which only 100 models will be available to buy in the UK.

 

I think this is a repost, but that car is still badass...

 

the other thread doesn't contain any info about this car ..

 

I stand corrected. Thanks for posting it!

 

Why god, why don't they make it AWD.

 

If the car was AWD or preferably RWD, this would be _the_ hot hatch to buy. But 345 bhp on a fwd car, I'm skeptical.

 

What's the fun in four wheel drive? Everybody could drive that! But torque steering all over the place trying to control 345 bhp now that's fun lol!

 

I saw this on topspeed about a week ago.. Not sure how I feel about Ford and limited release cars.

 

My new favourite hot hatch. Love it!