Ford announced today that it is preparing a new Focus RS – the ultimate sports version of the world's best-selling car. The new Focus RS will be conceived as a global model for the first time and will probably get the 2.3-liter EcoBoost from the Mustang.
At the same time, the Blue Oval informed that the new Focus RS will be one of more than a dozen new sports models that Ford will introduce to the market by 2020. Their development will be ensured by the newly created Ford Performance department within the Ford Motor Company.
"Through a global Ford Performance team that spans racing activities, sports models and specialty accessories, we can bring to market more quickly the products that customers around the world expect from us," said Raj Nadir , Ford Motor Company vice president of global product development.
The new Focus RS will be proud of its pedigree going back to 1968 . The previous model of the sharpest Focus was launched in 2009. "For the new model to be worthy of the RS designation, it must be an uncompromising sports car that offers extraordinary dynamics on the race track, but at the same time excels in everyday use," added Nadir.
Interest in sports cars is growing worldwide. In Europe, their sales have increased by 14% since 2009, in the United States even by 70%. Ford Performance is headed by Dave Pericak , formerly the chief designer of the new Mustang, which will be sold in Europe in 2015.
Source: Ford, modernreaders.com
