At the ongoing 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford has revealed the performance specs for its much-anticipated high-performance hathcback, the Focus RS.
Powered by a specially engineered version of Ford’s new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine producing a projected 350hp and 470Nm of torque, the Focus RS is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 266 km/h.
For the first time ever, the Focus RS features Launch Control technology that configures the cars’ chassis and powertrain systems to deliver the fastest possible acceleration – in various track conditions. To use it, the driver will have to select launch control from the cluster menu, engage first gear, apply full throttle and release the clutch. The system then delivers optimum drive – including distributing torque through the all-wheel-drive system, maintaining maximum torque using the turbo overboost function, managing traction control and setting the dampers.
To achieve maximum acceleration through the gears, a performance shift light in the instrument cluster alerts the driver when approaching the optimum upshift point of 5,900 rpm, and flashes if the engine hits the 6,800rpm limit.
Another premiere for the Focus RS is the Ford Performance AWD system. It uses twin electronically controlled clutch packs to manage the cars’ front/rear torque split, and can control side-to-side torque distribution on the rear axle – delivering the torque vectoring capability that produces a dramatic impact on handling and cornering stability.
The all-wheel-drive system monitors inputs from multiple vehicle sensors 100 times per second. To deliver optimum driving dynamics, the system was calibrated alongside the car’s advanced electronic stability control, in particular, its brake-based Torque Vectoring Control that works in parallel with torque vectoring all-wheel drive.
Focus RS drivers can select from 4 different drive modes that configure the all-wheel-drive system, damper controls, electronic stability control, steering and engine responses, and exhaust sound. Normal, sport or track settings are available, along with a special drift mode to help the driver achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track.
According to the automaker, the new 2.3-litre EcoBoost shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminum 4-cylinder EcoBoost in the all-new Ford Mustang. The engine is significantly upgraded to improve power by more than 10%. It features a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor, enhanced air intake design, and a large-bore high-performance exhaust.
The Focus RS will be built in Saarlouis, Germany, and it is one of 12 new performance vehicles Ford will bring to customers globally through 2020 as part of a new era of Ford Performance vehicles.
