Focus RS unleashed

05th December 2008

The fastest Ford hot hatch ever is finally here!

Following a scene-stealing debut at the British Motor Show in the summer, the 160mph-plus Focus RS has arrived in showroom-ready form at last – and Auto Express has the latest details and all the official pictures. Painted Performance Blue, the car evokes memories of the 1992 Escort RS Cosworth and original Focus RS MkI.

But the new model takes hot hatch performance to another level, with a limited-slip diff, unique suspension and a potent 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine which will power it from 0-60mph in less than six seconds.

And although prices have yet to be confirmed, it will cost less than £25,000. Already 1,500 people have put down an order for the newcomer, and they will be relieved to see that the RS's agressive look remains faithful to the stunning concept.

Up front, there’s a gloss black grille, plus circular spotlights and bonnet air intakes, while the rear gets a spoiler inspired by Ford’s world rally contender and a diffuser with twin exhaust pipes. Completing the look are 19-inch multispoke alloys wrapped in low-profile tyres. Inside, the RS boasts Recaro seats with body-coloured detailing, carbon fibre trim on the centre console and a brushed aluminium gearlever.

Under the bonnet lies a 296bhp version of the five-cylinder unit from the Focus ST. It rockets the RS from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and on to a theoretical top speed in excess of 160mph, although production models will be electronically limited to 155mph.

Transmitting the power to the road is an Automatic Torque Biasing limited-slip differential, which was developed by British engineering specialist Quaife. It works in conjunction with Ford’s new RevoKnuckle suspension – a modified MacPherson strut set-up with special geometry – to maximise traction and limit torque steer. Uprated stability control, a wider track, lowered ride height and bigger brakes complete the package.

Expect luxurious standard kit, while exterior colours include the Performance Blue seen here, Frozen White and Ultimate Green, the shade of the British Motor Show car. Customer deliveries of the Focus RS begin in March.

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