Ford contemplating launch of an even faster Focus RS – report

The latest-generaiton Ford Focus RS may spawn a new, even faster limited edition variant, if a new report is to be believed.

Anonymous sources within Ford Performance have told Autocar that the automaker is drafting up plans to launch a quicker, albeit limited production run, version of the Focus RS.

Revealed in stages this year, the latest-generation Focus RS is powered by a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 257kW of power and 440Nm of torque. Unlike earlier incarnations, the new RS not only features all-wheel drive instead of front-wheel drive, it is also designed to be sold around the world.

Paired with the standard six-speed manual gearbox and 19-inch alloy wheels with 235/35 tyres, the Focus RS is said to be capable of a 0-100km/h time of 4.7 seconds.

According to the British magazine, the faster-than-RS Focus might have a little bit of extra power and torque, but the numbers won’t jump markedly as the 2.3-litre turbo is close to its maximum potential given the limited space within the Focus’ engine bay for additional cooling equipment.

Much of the uber-RS’ extra performance will come from reduced weight. Components such as carbonfibre-reinforced plastic body panels, polycarbonate windows, forged aluminium suspension parts, and carbonfibre brakes will likely feature in the limited edition model.

Ford may also decide to remove much of the RS’ noise insulation and pare back the car’s interior to the essentials. To help out with handling, the limited edition car is expected to feature a limited-slip differential up front.

The decision, say the sources, on whether to give the even faster model the green light depends on market reception to the run-of-the-mill Focus RS.

Australian sales of the new Ford Focus RS begin in the middle of 2016, with prices starting from $50,990 prior to on-road costs.