New Ford Focus RS due in 2015 05 | 02 | 2013
FORD HAS CONFIRMED its third-generation Ford Focus RS will go on sale in 2015. The news signals acknowledgement that Ford has turned the financial corner.
Over recent years, the American giant has concentrated on boosting global sales through volume models which have used as many common parts as possible.
And under the guidance of boss Alan Mulally, Ford has seen a return to profitability in the States; it's Asia marker grow, and the rescue strategy in Europe begin to deliver results.
That, in turn, has now released investment which will be directed at a number of 'halo effect' models, intended to give Ford a new, higher profile away from the volume cars.
“We’ve concentrated on developing cars for world markets, and you can see the result of that with the Edge and Mustang scheduled to come to Europe, and the Fiesta and Focus in the US," Barb Samardzich, vice president of product development for Ford Europe, said.
"Our ‘One Ford’ policy has succeeded in pushing our mainstream products further than ever, and the next step is to provide customers with more exemplary, smaller-volume highlight products.
Trio unite to develop fuel cells
"Planning doesn’t just have to be about the mainstream now; we can go to the edges again.”
Though Samardzich personally sidestepped confirming the new Focus RS, Ford insiders have stated work on the new car is already underway. It's production sign-off is imminent.
“There’s more room for more performance products across the range in the small, medium and large car segments,” Samardzich continued.
“A whole suite of such cars is what I have in mind. I’m noting there are two different kinds of customers — one for ST products (Ford ST pictured), which are fun but have an everyday usability, and another, more racing-focused customer who wants an RS-type car.
"Evolving both alongside Mustang is complementary; the customers for one don’t necessarily want the other.” The new Mustang is due to arrive in Europe next year.
The new five-door Focus RS is expected to use the new Ford-developed 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder tuned to around 330bhp. The same powerplant will be used in the Mustang. The RS's fuel efficiency will be improved thanks to the latest turbo and direct-injection technology.
In addition to a return for Revoknuckle front suspension that was developed for the last RS, the new Focus RS will have a limited-slip differential, plus larger brakes and tyres, and a sportier cabin.
New Ford Focus WTCC limited edition
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars
Jim McGill