Ford Focus RS Spied
Testing on Nurburgring
The Ford Focus ST has been topping the Focus range (in Europe that is) since 2005 but a successor is on its way, the rally-inspired road-going pocket-rocket Ford Focus RS.
These photos show some very recent prototypes of the 3.0 liter, in-line 6 cylinder 300 bhp engined RS and can mainly be recognized by the larger air intakes in the front, the big alloy wheels and a rear wing. All that power could not possibly go through just the front wheels, so expect an all-wheel-drive system, most probably borrowed from Volvo (just like the engine) but heavily adjusted by the UK based Prodrive team.
The European Ford Focus RS is expected to reach customers in 2008 after a Geneva Motor Show launch in March and will be a rival to the new Mitsubishi Evo X and Subaru Impreza Sti.
Clinton, Ford has always called the top Focus "RS". Im starting to think Ford US & Ford everywhere else, are like sibblings that dont get along. How is it that an American company has better products everywhere else, but in America? Ford just changes the skin & sells the US the same OLD Focus thats been around since the 90s, while the rest get a new car. Wouldnt it be smart to send it & compete against the evo & WRX? Get a clue, Ford!
RS means Rallye Sport and can trace its roots back to the RS1800 mk1 Escort .
I dont think that this Ford Focus has a 6 cylinder engine. Because the 2.5T is lighter, cheaper and brings more than enough power. I am just wondering if Ford reale brings a 4WD RS.. i hope so. Enything else makes no sense.
Yes, and the last generation Ford Focus had also a "RS" version, with 215cv and there was no problems about infringement.
"RS" means "Rennsport" (German for "racing sport"), since Ford of Europe is based in Germany as well as Porsche (911 GT3 RS).
What's it got to do with Audi? Ford has had the RS (Rallye Sport) and Cosworth badges since the 70's. Looking forward to the new one having owned the Mk1 Focus RS from new in 2003, What a car and I never get bored driving it.
By calling it an "RS", wouldn't that be a bit of an infringement on Audi?