THE final production model of the new Focus RS made its debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show last week. It’s the first chance for the public to see the road model of Ford’s fastest volume car which will be available in Ireland mid-April with a price tag from 43,565euro.
“This new Focus RS will be welcomed by a committed following of car enthusiasts in Ireland,” said Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland. “As the most popular car nameplate in Ireland for the last number of years, our Focus brand will benefit hugely from the addition of this stunning new RS model”.
With the unveiling of the new Focus RS, the legendary Ford RS brand is returning after six years, applied to an all-modern interpretation of the RS philosophy, creating the latest in an impressive line of affordable and practical, yet exhilarating performance cars.
Available in a choice of three colours and with colour-matched performance interiors, the new Focus RS is the product of five years’ development work by Ford Team RS and combines bespoke engineering, design and aerodynamics with the inherent practicality of a Ford Focus.
At the heart of the new Focus RS is its turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine, creating a distinctive performance character, with peak power of 305PS (300 bhp) at 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 440Nm between 2,300 and 4,500 rpm. The previous Focus RS had peak power of 215PS.
The Focus RS powertrain features many bespoke engineering developments, including a new intake and exhaust system to aid engine cooling and breathing, and larger turbocharger, generating a 35 per cent power increase, versus Focus ST. Offering more torque than any Ford RS production car before it, Focus RS’ 440Nm peak is a 38 per cent increase over Focus ST.
Shaping such power into accessible performance and assured traction was the challenge met by Ford of Europe’s renowned vehicle dynamics experts.
The new Focus RS is capable of 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 263 km/h (163 mph).
Dynamics developments include a 40mm wider track, sharper steering, larger brakes, bespoke 235/35/R19 Continental tyres and refined aerodynamics, but the centre-piece is an innovative suspension technology called ‘RevoKnuckle’, which is an innovative two piece suspension knuckle, replacing the usual one piece format.
Test drive these Fords at main dealers Lyons of Limerick, Ballysimon Road; Sheils on the Ennis Road; Cavanagh’s of Charleville and Dan Dooley, Tipperary and Knocklong.
