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2016 Ford Focus RS to boast 257kW and up to 470Nm

The all-new 2016 Ford Focus RS has been detailed ahead of its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and the numbers do not disappoint.


The 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the bonnet of the new-generation Focus RS produces a staggering 257kW of power and 440Nm of torque - or a mind-blowing 470Nm on overboost.

That's more than the 2.3-litre turbo engine puts out in the Ford Mustang (233kW/432Nm), and the new model also betters its predecessor Focus RS, which had a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo producing 224kW/440Nm.

The peak power hits at 6800rpm (the maximum rev limit), and while maximum torque of 440Nm hits between 2000rpm and 4500rpm, European models have 470Nm available for "up to 15 seconds on transient overboost during hard acceleration. Thankfully it looks like Australian-delivered models will get that Euro tune, too.

The engine shares the same main components as the Mustang, but there's a new low-intertia twin-scroll turbocharger with a larger compressor that "delivers significantly greater air flow", while the intercooler has also been upsized to "maximise charge density". Further to that, there's a larger radiator pack that "provides the level of cooling demanded for intense circuit driving".

There's also a revised intake for better flow, and the exhaust system features and electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe to control the back pressure and noise.

The new model - which uses all-wheel drive underpinnings unlike the previous FWD model - is more rally-bred than ever before, and it will also debut an "industry-first Drift Mode".

The all-wheel drive system includes a torque vectoring system that "helps deliver a new level of handling capability and driver enjoying by combining outstanding traction and grip with unmatched agility and cornering speed".

As well as that, the new Focus RS will be fitted with  Drive Modes – including an industry-first Drift Mode that allows controlled oversteer drifts – and Launch Control.

Ford Performance global director Dave Pericak said in a statement that the brand came through with the goods on the new RS.

“We promised enthusiasts a serious driving machine and, with 350 PS (257kW) under the hood, that is exactly what we will deliver,” said Pericak.

“The stunning pace and innovative technology of the all-new Focus RS place it head-to-head with performance models from luxury and exotic marques, and it’s ready for the challenge.”

Full pricing and specification details for Australian models are still being worked through, according to Ford Australia.

It wouldn't be unexpected to see the car sit close to where it did previously ($59,990 plus on-road costs), though the fact this is a run-of-production model rather than a special edition could see some impact on the sticker price.

The high-performance hatchback will debut with celebrity driver Ken Block behind the wheel at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it will take on the famous Hillclimb circuit.

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