Ford Focus RS – 2016
It would appear all the big names are planning to bring out their flagship cars again in 2016. Having exclusively reported on the planned Honda NSX, Nissan GTR and Toyota's New Supra,
all planned for release in 2016 - the next big hitter is Ford and their sub £30k Focus RS could make it the fastest FWD car to go round the Nurburgring! Ford has dropped the biggest hint yet that a new Ford Focus RS is being produced. Chief operating officer for Ford - Europe, hinted at the vehicles development, stating: “I can’t give you any confirmation today, but let’s say there’s a strong desire. Something like that makes a great halo car.”
Taking into consideration the impending release from Vauxhall - The Extreme VXR and Honda's New turbo-Charged Civic, A Ford spokesman showed clear intent and stated: “We have a rich heritage of RS cars, and we’re not about to let any competitors overtake us in that respect. You can rest assured the director of design, Ford of Europe and his team are fully focused on the future of our performance strategy.”
A refreshed Focus ST is scheduled to arrive this summer. It’s expected to make its worldwide debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year – however whilst the styling will be significantly more extreme than the current model’s, there won’t be any more power for its 247bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine, this in itself hints at, and leaves room for a more potent RS to be released above it.
Those who fancy a bet believe it will feature a new direct-injection 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-charged engine, producing approximately 304bhp. It could then be tuned to as much as 350bhp for the Focus RS – matching the iconic RS500. To keep the vehicles weight down Ford are expected to stick with a front-wheel-drive setup (rather than four-wheel drive) and use an electronic differential to maximise traction. Wider tyres, bigger brakes and a louder exhaust are expected and of course, expect plenty of visual details such as intakes, vents, spoilers, and diffuser.
The styling is something I do absolutely love about the RS. Ford is aiming to keep the price at around £27,000 and if it is the RS will offer one of the best power per £ vehicle on the road today. The Focus is due for replacement in 2017, it’s looking like 2016 before the production model arrives.
Ford Focus ST Owners club - www.focusSToc.com
Ford Focus RS Owners Club - www.focusRSoc.com
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