When Ford revealed the new Focus RS at the Geneva Motor Show, it promised it would deliver "well in excess of 315 horsepower." It didn't say exactly how much that would come to, but now it has. On the eve of its dynamic debut at the hands of Ken Block at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Ford has confirmed that its new hot hatch will pack 350 metric horsepower.
Those reaching for their calculators will find that works out to 345 horsepower by our standards. The power output is backed up by 324 pound-feet of torque, capable of being boosted up to 347 for up to fifteen seconds at a time. Those figures come from a retuned version of the same 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo four as the one available in the Mustang, but produces over ten percent more power thanks to a new turbocharger, upgraded intake and exhaust, and a larger radiator. All that muscle will be channeled to all four wheels through Ford Performance's new all-wheel drive system with dynamic torque vectoring, launch control, and selectable drive modes, including a Drift Mode that (as you can see from the video below) allows the hot hatch to get more than a little sideways.
Ford still isn't saying what those specs will translate to in terms of measurable performance figures, but as far as output goes, things are looking pretty good. The 30th Ford RS model already packs more power and torque than the new Honda Civic Type R (306 hp, 295 lb-ft), Volkswagen Golf R (292 hp, 280 lb-ft), Subaru WRX STI (305 hp, 290 lb-ft) or the Nürburgring-conquering Renault Mégane 275 Trophy-R (271 hp, 266 lb-ft) and Seat Leon Cupra (276 hp, 258 lb-ft). It even respectably holds its own against the more upscale BMW M235i (320 hp, 330 lb-ft), Mercedes A45/CLA45 AMG (355 hp, 332 lb-ft), and Audi RS3 (362 hp, 343 lb-ft). Whether it'll outshine them all in real-world conditions remains to be seen, but we're looking forward to finding out whenever Ford deems fit to drops those performance stats on us.
Those reaching for their calculators will find that works out to 345 horsepower by our standards. The power output is backed up by 324 pound-feet of torque, capable of being boosted up to 347 for up to fifteen seconds at a time. Those figures come from a retuned version of the same 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo four as the one available in the Mustang, but produces over ten percent more power thanks to a new turbocharger, upgraded intake and exhaust, and a larger radiator. All that muscle will be channeled to all four wheels through Ford Performance's new all-wheel drive system with dynamic torque vectoring, launch control, and selectable drive modes, including a Drift Mode that (as you can see from the video below) allows the hot hatch to get more than a little sideways.
Ford still isn't saying what those specs will translate to in terms of measurable performance figures, but as far as output goes, things are looking pretty good. The 30th Ford RS model already packs more power and torque than the new Honda Civic Type R (306 hp, 295 lb-ft), Volkswagen Golf R (292 hp, 280 lb-ft), Subaru WRX STI (305 hp, 290 lb-ft) or the Nürburgring-conquering Renault Mégane 275 Trophy-R (271 hp, 266 lb-ft) and Seat Leon Cupra (276 hp, 258 lb-ft). It even respectably holds its own against the more upscale BMW M235i (320 hp, 330 lb-ft), Mercedes A45/CLA45 AMG (355 hp, 332 lb-ft), and Audi RS3 (362 hp, 343 lb-ft). Whether it'll outshine them all in real-world conditions remains to be seen, but we're looking forward to finding out whenever Ford deems fit to drops those performance stats on us.
FORD REVEALS 350 PS OUTPUT FOR ALL-NEW FOCUS RS AS KEN BLOCK UNLEASHES HIGH-PERFORMANCE HATCHBACK AT GOODWOOD
- All-new Ford Focus RS delivers 350 PS maximum power from specially engineered 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine
- High-performance hatchback makes global public dynamic debut driven by Ken Block at the Goodwood Festival of Speed
- Advanced technologies include innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Drive Modes – including industry-first Drift Mode – and Launch Control
- Ford Focus RS is among 12 new performance vehicles Ford will offer through 2020 globally
GOODWOOD, U.K., June 25, 2015 – Ford today announced that the all-new Focus RS high-performance hatchback will deliver a maximum power output of 350 PS. The Ford Performance-developed model features a unique version of the new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that debuted with the all-new Ford Mustang.
Ford will demonstrate the performance of the all-new Focus RS to the public for the first time at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed, U.K., where Ken Block – Gymkhana and World Rallycross star – will tackle the famous Hillclimb at the wheel of a prototype car.
"We promised enthusiasts a serious driving machine and, with 350 PS under the hood, that is exactly what we will deliver," said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance. "The stunning pace and innovative technology of the all-new Focus RS place it head-to-head with performance models from luxury and exotic marques, and it's ready for the challenge."
With Focus RS, Ford is introducing its Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring. The innovative system helps delivers a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment by combining outstanding traction and grip with unmatched agility and cornering speed.
The Focus RS is the first Ford RS model equipped with selectable Drive Modes – including an industry-first Drift Mode that allows controlled oversteer drifts – and Launch Control.
High-performance EcoBoost powertrain specially engineered for RS
The new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine for the all-new Focus RS shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminium four-cylinder engine in the all-new Ford Mustang. The engine has been significantly upgraded for the Focus RS to deliver 10 per cent more power with 350 PS maximum output.
Increased power is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater air flow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximise charge density. Engine breathing also is enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high performance exhaust system with an electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe that helps optimise the balance of back pressure and noise output.
The cylinder head is produced from an upgraded alloy material capable of withstanding higher temperatures, while the cylinder block employs stronger high-tensile cast iron liners.
Engine cooling also has been given the highest priority, with engineers creating additional space within the front of the vehicle to house a significantly larger radiator pack – the biggest ever fitted to a Focus – which provides the level of cooling demanded for intense circuit driving.
Meticulous calibration work has ensured that the power unit delivers excellent low-end responsiveness with a powerful mid-range pull, climbing to a free-revving top-end up to a maximum rev limit of 6,800 rpm. Maximum torque of 440 Nm is delivered between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm, with 470 Nm available for up to 15 seconds on transient overboost during hard acceleration.
Inspiring performance demands an inspiring soundtrack. Ford Performance engineers have tuned the RS to deliver a rewarding and sporty sound character during spirited driving, with the distinctive burbles and pops that are a RS signature.
"This very special 2.3-litre EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to the red line – all delivered with a visceral sound guaranteed to put a smile on your face," Pericak said.
Developed by a team of Ford Performance engineers in Europe and the U.S., the all-new Focus RS is the third generation of Focus RS cars, following models launched in 2002 and 2009. The 30th car to wear the legendary RS badge, the Focus RS will be built in Saarlouis, Germany.
Focus RS is one of 12 new performance vehicles Ford will bring to customers globally through 2020 as part of a new era of Ford performance, and will be available for delivery to European customers from early 2016.
- All-new Ford Focus RS delivers 350 PS maximum power from specially engineered 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine
- High-performance hatchback makes global public dynamic debut driven by Ken Block at the Goodwood Festival of Speed
- Advanced technologies include innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Drive Modes – including industry-first Drift Mode – and Launch Control
- Ford Focus RS is among 12 new performance vehicles Ford will offer through 2020 globally
GOODWOOD, U.K., June 25, 2015 – Ford today announced that the all-new Focus RS high-performance hatchback will deliver a maximum power output of 350 PS. The Ford Performance-developed model features a unique version of the new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that debuted with the all-new Ford Mustang.
Ford will demonstrate the performance of the all-new Focus RS to the public for the first time at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed, U.K., where Ken Block – Gymkhana and World Rallycross star – will tackle the famous Hillclimb at the wheel of a prototype car.
"We promised enthusiasts a serious driving machine and, with 350 PS under the hood, that is exactly what we will deliver," said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance. "The stunning pace and innovative technology of the all-new Focus RS place it head-to-head with performance models from luxury and exotic marques, and it's ready for the challenge."
With Focus RS, Ford is introducing its Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring. The innovative system helps delivers a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment by combining outstanding traction and grip with unmatched agility and cornering speed.
The Focus RS is the first Ford RS model equipped with selectable Drive Modes – including an industry-first Drift Mode that allows controlled oversteer drifts – and Launch Control.
High-performance EcoBoost powertrain specially engineered for RS
The new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine for the all-new Focus RS shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminium four-cylinder engine in the all-new Ford Mustang. The engine has been significantly upgraded for the Focus RS to deliver 10 per cent more power with 350 PS maximum output.
Increased power is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater air flow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximise charge density. Engine breathing also is enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high performance exhaust system with an electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe that helps optimise the balance of back pressure and noise output.
The cylinder head is produced from an upgraded alloy material capable of withstanding higher temperatures, while the cylinder block employs stronger high-tensile cast iron liners.
Engine cooling also has been given the highest priority, with engineers creating additional space within the front of the vehicle to house a significantly larger radiator pack – the biggest ever fitted to a Focus – which provides the level of cooling demanded for intense circuit driving.
Meticulous calibration work has ensured that the power unit delivers excellent low-end responsiveness with a powerful mid-range pull, climbing to a free-revving top-end up to a maximum rev limit of 6,800 rpm. Maximum torque of 440 Nm is delivered between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm, with 470 Nm available for up to 15 seconds on transient overboost during hard acceleration.
Inspiring performance demands an inspiring soundtrack. Ford Performance engineers have tuned the RS to deliver a rewarding and sporty sound character during spirited driving, with the distinctive burbles and pops that are a RS signature.
"This very special 2.3-litre EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to the red line – all delivered with a visceral sound guaranteed to put a smile on your face," Pericak said.
Developed by a team of Ford Performance engineers in Europe and the U.S., the all-new Focus RS is the third generation of Focus RS cars, following models launched in 2002 and 2009. The 30th car to wear the legendary RS badge, the Focus RS will be built in Saarlouis, Germany.
Focus RS is one of 12 new performance vehicles Ford will bring to customers globally through 2020 as part of a new era of Ford performance, and will be available for delivery to European customers from early 2016.
Featured Gallery 2016 Ford Focus RS
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