Ford has long reserved a number of stunning models for the European market, including the high-performance Focus RS. Unfortunately, while Ford’s emphasis on a more streamlined global product lineup is yielding new models for us here in the US, including the new Fiesta, there’s no word yet on whether we’ll be able to get our hands on the lightweight RS Clubsport or the next generation RS based on the recently unveiled 2012 Ford Focus.
The updated Ford Focus RS Clubsport is expected to break cover later this year. In addition to utilizing lightweight components, copious amounts of carbon fiber, and Fe inely tuned suspension, this Focus is expected to be quite light on its feet thanks to a 2.5-liter five cylinder engine that produces 350 horsepower. The RS Clubsport is said to launch from 0-60 mph in a mere five seconds flat.
A new RS is also in development based on the 2012 Focus. This model will likely feature a new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine rather than the current five cylinder unit. With an estimated 300 horsepower, this new engine will provide a mid-5 second 0-60 mph time along with a 155 mph top speed.
While we would love to see this model become available in the US, there are currently no plans to bring it here. But since the new Focus is developed as a global product, like the new Fiesta, there is still hope, and we’ll continue to cross our fingers.
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