With 350 hp on tap and a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds, the 2015 Ford Focus RS is undeniably quick. According to new reports however, a lightweight and even faster variant is in the works and could become the quickest accelerating hatchback on the market.
According to Autocar, it isn’t a given that this hardcore Focus RS model will receive any more power than the standard model as the car’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo engine is already operating close to its limit. In order to significantly improve the car’s acceleration times, Ford is apparently working on stripping out 100 kg while also installing a selection of new drivetrain components.
On a weight saving front, it is suggested that the American marque could implement a selection of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic bodywork, carbon ceramic brakes, a stripped-back interior as well as less noise insulation. Additionally, forged aluminium suspension components could be fitted to make the car even more exotic.
Elsewhere, the car could receive a new electronically controlled limited-slip differential at the front axle and importantly, ditch the regular model’s six-speed manual transmission in favour of the marque’s dual-clutch automatic Powershift gearbox.
When it is all said and done, the car will apparently be able to outsprint the Mercedes-AMG A45 and Audi RS3 to 100 km/h, meaning a 4.0 second time is on the cards.
If the car becomes a reality, it will be extremely limited.
