After three years of production, it’s time to say goodbye to the Ford Focus RS — but it’s going out with a bang. Welcome the Heritage Edition – the final version of the high-performance hatchback.
It’s not only a celebration of the current fast Focus, which is set to go out of production on April 6, but of the RS nameplate too — which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
What makes it special? Well, it’s got a unique paint finish, high levels of equipment and a 25bhp power increase. It’s a UK exclusive, with the last 50 right-hand-drive models set to be produced in the limited-run guise.
The striking ‘Tief Orange’ paint harks back to one of Ford’s most iconic performance models – the Mk1 Escort Mexico – and is currently only available on the Heritage Edition Focus RS.
Topping off the exterior is the addition of grey brake callipers behind black alloy wheels, with black-painted door mirrors and a rear spoiler complementing the package.
Inside the car, there’s Recaro seats, privacy glass, a sunroof, rear-parking sensors, cruise control and a heated steering wheel all as standard.
Under the bonnet you’ll still find the standard Focus RS’ 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine but here, as a result of Ford-approved tuner Mountune’s FPM375 upgrade, it’s got a bump in power.
This results in a jump from 345bhp and 470Nm to 370bhp and 510Nm of torque. Ford hasn’t revealed exact performance figures but expect an improvement on the regular car’s 4.5 second 0-60mph time and 165mph top speed. Power is still sent to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
To help put it to the ground more effectively, the Heritage Edition features a Quaife front differential – as previously introduced on RS Edition models – which Ford says provides a “heightened dynamic sensation for performance driving enthusiasts”.
Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director of Ford of Britain, said: “The RS brand is hugely important to Ford and is recognised across the globe, however it has a special place in the hearts of UK Ford fans. This latest model is the best RS we’ve ever produced, so it seems a fitting tribute as we approach its 50th anniversary.”
Pricing for the Ford Focus RS Heritage Edition starts at £39,895 as it’s now on sale. Better get to your dealer quick, though, as demand is expected to be high for the next piece in Ford RS history.
