Ford has confirmed that it doesn’t have any plans to produce a flagship ‘RS’ hot hatch version of its current Ford Focus.
RS versions have been a key addition to the range of this bestselling hatchback since it was introduced – acting as a ‘halo’ model in the line-up – but it looks like the current Focus won’t spawn an RS version.
Ford was said to be seeking a suitable high power hybrid setup for the model, which would have met increasingly tighter emissions regulations. However, according to Autocar, Ford now has no plans to launch the model, with the development of such a setup said not to be cost-effective.
A Ford spokesperson told the magazine: “As a result of pan-European emissions standards, increased CO2 taxation and the high cost of developing an RS with some form of electrification for a relatively low volume of vehicles, we are not planning another RS version of the Focus.”
While buyers won’t be able to get their hands on a current RS, there is the ST hot hatch for those wanting a sporty Focus. With its 276bhp 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, it’s certainly a worthy flagship – accelerating to 60mph in 5.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph. Various performance gubbins also make it one of the best hot hatches around to drive.
Enquire on a new Ford Focus RS
