The fourth-gen Ford Focus has already debuted in its ‘warmed-up’ ST version (see the gallery and the video), and the ‘hot’ RS should follow soon. Here are the latest scoops about the newcomer.
Ford calls the model ‘the 2021 Focus RS’, but the car will most likely become available ahead of its model year (i.e., already in 2020). It will rival the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S as one of the best-performing ‘hot hatches’ on the market, but only if it gets a hybrid powertrain strong enough to compete. The base engine will remain the same (2.3-liter Mustang turbo V4). According to unofficial sources, the gas engine will drive the front axle, whereas the rear axle will be driven by GKN eTwinster, a sophisticated electric motor system capable of flexibly redistributing torque between the wheels. It remains unknown whether the Focus RS will get a dedicated ‘Drift Mode’ similar to that of the AMG A 45 S.
At any rate, the performance hatchback will be at least 400 hp (300 kW) strong. Apart from the abovementioned Mercedes, it will also compete with the upcoming Volkswagen Golf R.