New Ford Focus RS boasts more than 316bhp

The latest iteration of the Focus RS is set to offer a punchy 316bhp power output, along with some new performance-enhancing technology.

The Ford Focus RS is now in its third-generation and since its introduction in the early millennia, it has earned a cult following from petrol heads. Unlike previous-generations, the new RS will be available worldwide – something Ford is trying to instil across its entire range.

Now available solely as a five-door, the latest RS model features a punchier version of the new Mustang’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Ford has said that this unit will have a power output in excess of 316bhp.

The talking point of the new RS, however, is its newly-developed All-Wheel Drive system – which comes with a feature called Dynamic Torque Vectoring. Similar to Land Rover’s Torque Vectoring system, the new RS is capable of distributing power to the wheels that need it most.

For example, if you are on the race track and travel into a corner at speed, the Dynamic Torque Vectoring system will deliver power to the front wheels, giving you added grip and control. According to Ford, this new system “virtually eliminates understeer”. If are after something a little more race track-orientated, drivers will also have the ability to manual control the Dynamic Torque Vectoring system.

Going hand-in-hand with its track-like credentials, there are four selectable driving modes to choose from: Drift, Track, Sport and Normal. These will give drivers added flexibility on and off the track.

The new Ford Focus RS will go on sale in 2016. Prices are expected to fall under the £30,000 mark as it hopes to compete against models like the Honda Civic Type-R, priced at £29,995.