DAS Demo
We have access to a lot great things here in the U S of A, but one thing we typically don’t get are the multitude of performance hatchbacks that litter the streets of Europe. Thankfully, Ford is changing that with all-new Focus RS. Not only is Ford bringing the Focus RS to American shores, but when it does, it’s going to be a monster.
Unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the RS is a performance version of the Ford Focus. It’s powered by a unique 2.3-liter EcoBoost projected to deliver well in excess of 315 horsepower. But the Focus RS is more than just power; it employs a host of advanced technologies, including direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing, and advanced turbocharging to help deliver exceptional fuel economy.
Of course, all that power needs to be controlled somehow, which is why the high-performance road car features the most powerful Ford RS braking system ever, complete with Brembo front calipers.
But perhaps the most exciting aspect of the all-new RS is its Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive system. According to Ford, the RS’ all-wheel drive will employ Dynamic Torque Vectoring for class-leading cornering speed and at-limit handling.
Put in simple terms the RS is designed to go fast, go hard, and cut through corner like a hot knife through butter. Part of what makes that possible are a number of driver-assist technologies designed heighten the RS’ extreme driving capabilities, while also making them easy to use.
The Focus RS will be the first RS model to come with selectable drive modes. The driver can select from four different drive modes to configure the car to deliver optimum performance in road or circuit driving conditions – normal, sport, track or a special drift mode.
Modes can be chosen using a switch alongside the gear lever, with specific settings for the all-wheel-drive system, damper controls, Electronic Stability Control, steering and engine response, and exhaust sound.
While a large emphasis has been placed on the Focus RS performance, the interior also gets a makeover to reflect its sporty character. There’s a new flat-bottomed steering wheel with soft-feel, leather-covered rim, alloy pedals, and unique instrument graphics for the main cluster. Further underlinding the RS’ performance capabilities are gauges above the center console that display turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature, and oil pressure.
What’s more, the RS is replete with cutting-edge technologies, including SYNC® 3 connectivity, which provides access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones via voice control and a high-definition, eight-inch color touch screen. Also available are a rearview camera as well as a Sony premium sound system with 10 speakers and subwoofer.
Performance enthusiasts – and fans of just good old-fashioned speed – it’s time to strap in and get ready for what is sure to be the most breathtaking experience you’re likely to have on four wheels.
For more information and to stay informed, be sure to contact us at Tomball Ford.
Image: Ford (European model shown)
