Ford has begun selling its new Focus model and it is expected that there will be a performance orientated model just like its predecessors. The car’s mid-range performance model, the Focus ST, is almost ready for production and now it looks like the company is focusing on the top range variant which is the Focus RS.

Ford has decided to reunite both international and North American Focus models. The previous North American model was discontinued and the new model was released simultaneously worldwide. News of the next-generation Focus RS was revealed (sounds more like it was by accident) recently during a Top Gear episode and there will be major changes especially in the engine department.

Ford will drop the 2.5 litre, five cylinder Volvo turbocharged engine and replace it with a 2.3 litre, four cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine. The main reason for this was due to better efficiency. The car is destined for release some time in the year 2014 and there will be some re-engineering work that needs to be done so as to fit the new model’s transverse mounting position. It is also rumoured that the same engine will also be used in the entry level Ford Mustang and it will feature technologies like direct injection and balance shafts to maintain reasonable economy.

All that power will go to the front wheels, just like the predecessor. Some people might be wondering why Ford has not included a four wheel drive system for the car just like its former 1980s and 1990s Escort and Sierra RS. Apparently, Ford has indicated that a four wheel drive system on a low sports car would need some extra engineering rework and that would see an increase in manufacturing costs and it would also add unnecessary extra weight.

Ford will use the electronic torque-steer compensation technology (used on the Focus ST) and Ford has mentioned that they find it to be effective. The excellent RevoKnuckle front suspension (which is used in the old RS) will return on the new car.

Unlike the previous RS model, the new RS will be a five door but Ford might change that and probably introduce a new bodystyle. The next-generation Ford Focus RS is an active project but the company will not guarantee anything at the moment and we just have to wait and see what Ford has to offer.

Photo credit: Net Car Show

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