Gymkhana star and development consultant Ken Block was on hand today to launch a brand-new Ford Focus RS in Cologne, Germany, marking the return of the RS line at the place where the first RS (the Ford 15M RS) was shown in 1968.
The 30th car to don the RS badge, the 2016 Focus RS is the most powerful production Focus ever, and the first version available to markets worldwide, including Canada and the U.S.
Featuring a dynamic torque vectoring system, the Focus all-wheel drivetrain can effectively split the front/rear power distribution 30/70 for optimal handling in street and track conditions. The 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine also sets a benchmark in performance for the RS, which the company says will output "well in excess" of 315 horsepower, mated to a six-speed manual transmission with upgraded components and a clutch built to withstand the engine's increased torque output, all the way up to the 6,800 rpm redline.
Production will begin later this year at Ford's Saarlouis, Germany plant, with North American availability following soon after. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
