2016 Ford Focus RS: More Power, New Technologies
We already knew that the Ford Focus RS would be pretty amazing; after hearing about its all-wheel drive system and the turbocharged 2.3 litre four-cylinder from the EcoBoost Mustang, and after the launch event was punctuated by Ken Block drifting a pre-production car, we couldn’t wait to drive the thing.
According to the official specifications we can expect 345 horsepower, which is a lot for a car this size.
It seems like it’s never enough. According to the latest information, the Focus RS (which arrives in dealerships next spring) will generate up to 350 horsepower and 347 pound-feet of torque, likely using an overboost function. To make all this power, a huge turbo replaces the one usually found in the Mustang. It feeds cold air to the engine via a large intercooler and can boost to pressures up to 23.2 psi. The exhaust is also unique to this model and will feature valves that open electronically to let the motor breath better (and also maybe help the RS sound better).
A new function will also be implemented to the start-stop system; if an overly-enthusiast driver stalls the car while trying to launch it (the RS will only be available with a six-speed manual transmission), they will only need to press the clutch pedal to the floor to restart the engine. No need to put the car in neutral or push the start button (and as an added bonus, you can try to fool your passengers into thinking you fully planned to stall!).
Official pricing has yet to be announced for the Canadian market, but we know it will be available in America for $36,605 USD.