Ford Focus RS: Special edition model on the cards

If Ford get their way, they’ll have a faster accelerating hatchback than the Audi RS3 or the Mercedes-AMG A45

Ford are considering making a Focus RS that can beat the 0-62mph benchmark of four seconds. The 345bhp five-door RS is pretty fierce but Ford is seriously considering making it even fiercer.

Part of the route to success would be to add an electronically controlled limited-slip diff at the front, tuned to work with the GKN rear drive unit. Add in a dual-clutch automatic gearbox and you’re definitely looking at a sweeter handling RS.

But to gain much more performance from the 2.3-litre engine is not going to be easy. For budgetary reasons there are plenty of elements within the car that could be lightened for a new Super RS, so that is the route that will be chosen. Things like plastic bodywork reinforced with carbonfibre, less insulation, forged aluminium suspension components and even a more stripped-out interior could take 100kg or more off the weight.

If Ford get their way, they’ll have a faster accelerating hatchback than the Audi RS3 or the Mercedes-AMG A45 – and a more expensive one too.