Focus RS sports hatch

Ford’s upcoming Focus RS sports hatch was first revealed in concept form at the London Motor Show back in July, and then again at the Paris Motor Show, but development work is coming to an end and sales are expected to start early next year.

Some new details about the car have now come to light with the release of several official images of the final production verison of the car.

While most of the specs have already been confirmed by Ford, some of the new details include a 0-100km/h (62mph) time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 264km/h (164mph). Pricing in Europe will reportedly be set at €39,000.

Based on the same core as the Focus ST, the RS adds power, handling and appearance modifications to improve the car’s ability to put its power to the ground and direct it down the road, track or gravel path.

To keep the potent engine from creating unmanageable torque steer, the engineers designed the car with a unique suspension called the ‘RevoKnuckle,’ which enables the car to keep the intended direction of travel even under heavy throttle.

This works in conjunction with a Quaife automatic torque biasing limited-slip differential. Combined, the Focus RS obviates the need for AWD and the attendant weight gains of the extra differential and driveshafts.

A Quaife automatic torque-biasing limited-slip differential keeps the traction steady even on less-than-ideal surfaces.

Changes to the standard Duratec 2.5L block include unique camshafts, a revised cylinder head and gasket and revised intake and manifold system.

As well as the extra power, the Focus RS also receives a 40mm wider track, 19in wheels, 235mm tires, upgraded springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.

Ford has also confirmed that customers will have three colour options from launch, including the vibrant green seen here, as well as blue and white.

Customers will also be able to match the interior trim with the exterior color or pick a full black leather option. Other features of the cabin include Recaro bucket seats, brushed aluminium accents and standard micro-fiber trim.

The performance driving environment is completed by three additional gauges from the Focus ST, including a boost gauge, sitting atop the center console and angled toward the driver.

When it’s launched next year, the new Focus RS will mark the return of the storied Ford ‘RS’ badge, last seen on the first-generation Focus RS in 2002 and with a heritage stretching back 38 years including Fiesta, Escort and Sierra models.