Well, it’s official – Ford have well and truly delivered on its promise that their new Focus RS will deliver “well in excess of 235kW”.
257kW to be exact, and 440Nm of torque.
Even more remarkable is the fact that they’re getting that power from the same 2.3 litre four-cylinder turbo engine that will end up in the new Mustang, where it’ll be producing only 232kW and 432Nm.
Want more? You got it. The new Focus RS will also be making the switch from front-wheel-drive to all-wheel-drive. This move was undoubtedly necessary due to the power hike, which comfortably eclipses the 224kW offered with the previous front-wheel-drive, five-cylinder turbocharged RS.
Still not enough for you? the new RS also gains a 15-second ‘transient overboost’ function which sees the torque soar to 470Nm.
“We promised enthusiasts a serious driving machine and, with 350PS under the hood, that is exactly what we will deliver,” said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance.
“The stunning pace and innovative technology of the all-new Focus RS place it head-to-head with performance models from luxury and exotic marques, and it’s ready for the challenge.”
The new Focus RS hatch’s figures are undoubtedly impressive, but it is worth remembering it is still not quite as impressive as Audi’s new 270kW RS 3, along with the 265kW AMG A 45 hatch – both reportedly about to be upgraded to a pair of 280kW to 295kW options in the very near future. Both the Audi and Mercedes-Benz are premium cars though, and the Focus RS will be positioned somewhere between them and the rest of the volume-selling brands, like Subaru’s 221kW WRX STI and the 206kW VW Golf R.
Ford is keeping quiet on the Focus RS hatch’s capacity for blistering acceleration, but we’re counting on it being quicker than the WRX STI’s 4.9 seconds.
“This very special 2.3-litre EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to the red line – all delivered with a visceral sound guaranteed to put a smile on your face,” Pericak said.
No Australian release date has been announced yet, but you expect the new Focus RS to hit our shores sometime in 2016.
