Before the the Focus ST came to America in 2013, the last time we had a fast Focus was the SVT from 2004. During the same period, Europe got plenty of fast Focuses, one of which was the Rally Sport (RS). The RS Focus was introduced in Europe in 2003, followed up with a second generation in 2008. Finally though, America will see the Focus RS when the latest generation comes stateside in the spring of 2016.
The Focus RS targets the Subaru WRX STi and the VW Golf R. The Focus RS is powered by the same 2.3 liter turbo four from the Mustang. Ford says it will make at least 330 horsepower. The engine is paired to a six-speed manual only, going to a new all-wheel drive system that can send 100 percent of the power to any singular wheel if the others lose traction.
The RS sees a few styling differences over the ST. Starting with the front end, the RS has more aggressive front end with bigger air dams. Moving to the back there is a massive rear wing and a new diffuser with with split dual exhaust unlike the ST’s center exit exhaust. That’s all topped off with 19 inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Inside there’s new trim and different Recaro Seats than the ST.
No word on price, yet, but based on the competition expect it to start in the mid $30,000 range and top off at around $40,000. Even with The Mitsubishi Evo dying at the end of the year, The Super-Compact segment seems to be stronger than ever.
To check out our review of the Focus ST click here.
Jim • Mar 23, 2015 at 11:18 am
Kudos to Ford for the new RS. Seems like a lot of car and performance per the cost and smart of them to make it a world car. They can always make up the profit margin in sales volume.
I hear a rumor of at least 345 Horse Power from multiple sources! If the EVO can do 0-60 in 4.5 seconds at around 300 H.P. The new RS will be a serious machine to say the least.