Ford of Europe has confirmed plans to launch a high-performance Focus RS model next year. Based on the Focus ST, the new RS model will become the 'ultimate road-going Focus", according to Ford officials.
Team Ford RS, led by Jost Capito, will be responsible for the new car. Capito takes the reins at Ford of Europe's performance vehicle division next month.
"With two consecutive Manufacturers' World Rally Championship titles under our belt, the time is right to create a new Focus RS," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe's President and CEO. "With the Fiesta and Focus ST models, Jost and his team have proved already that they can deliver exciting and practical performance road cars. The success of these models, combined with Jost's experience in motorsport and Ford of Europe's positive business results, mean that we now have a credible business case for a no-compromise Focus RS roadcar for more enthusiastic drivers."
Ford hopes to have a concept version ready for display by mid-2008, though as of yet, there's no word on powerplants, details or specifications. It's also unclear whether or not the vehicle will be sold in Canada, where it would do battle with the presently available Caliber SRT4, GTI, Mazdaspeed3 and Cooper S.
photo:Ford
Team Ford RS, led by Jost Capito, will be responsible for the new car. Capito takes the reins at Ford of Europe's performance vehicle division next month.
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"With two consecutive Manufacturers' World Rally Championship titles under our belt, the time is right to create a new Focus RS," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe's President and CEO. "With the Fiesta and Focus ST models, Jost and his team have proved already that they can deliver exciting and practical performance road cars. The success of these models, combined with Jost's experience in motorsport and Ford of Europe's positive business results, mean that we now have a credible business case for a no-compromise Focus RS roadcar for more enthusiastic drivers."
Ford hopes to have a concept version ready for display by mid-2008, though as of yet, there's no word on powerplants, details or specifications. It's also unclear whether or not the vehicle will be sold in Canada, where it would do battle with the presently available Caliber SRT4, GTI, Mazdaspeed3 and Cooper S.
photo:Ford