The story of the new Ford Focus RS is one that seems to be going along the lines of the many conflicting Alfa Rome rumors that we hear, the ones that make things blurrier instead of clearing them up. One day they’re making it and putting in the 2.3-liter turbo from the Mustang, the next day they’re not so sure and everybody goes all ambiguous in their statements…

Now, after a few months without news of the Focus RS, AutoExpress says it’s pretty clear this time that Ford heavily hinted at the prospect of a 2016 introduction for the new halo hatch.

The Brits quote Ford Europe boss, Barb Samardzich, who said that “I can’t give you any confirmation today, but let’s say there’s a strong desire. Something like that makes a great halo car.” The statement was reportedly backed by that of an official spokesperson.

“We have a rich heritage of RS cars, and we’re not about to let any competitors overtake us in that respect,” the person said, adding that “You can rest assured that Martin [Smith, director of design, Ford of Europe] and his team are fully focused on the future of our performance strategy.”

Older rendering by Lil-k Amaru of Virtuel Car

Might pack 350 bhp

A test mule of the 2016 Ford Focus RS was caught on camera by our spy photographers in Germany.

Ford will ultimately slap the "RS" badge on the current generation Focus sometime in 2016 as a final blast for the model set to receive a successor in 2017. Seen here is a test mule spotted on the German autobahn wearing the body of the ST but with the exhaust pipes closer to the rear bumper’s sides whereas the Focus ST has a centrally-positioned exhaust setup.

The hot hatchback will reportedly receive a 4-cylinder, 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine developing as much as 350 bhp (261 kW). That's a lot of power for what is believed to be a front-wheel drive car but Ford's engineers will try to diminish torque steer issues by installing an electronic differential and a specially developed Revoknuckle front suspension.

Chances are the 2016 Ford Focus RS will carry a starting price of approximately 27,000 GBP (about 45,200 USD / 33,500 EUR).

Diesel variant will likely have 184 PS

Ford has released the first teaser image of the 2015 Focus ST, ahead of its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on June 27th.

The company is keeping details a closely guarded secret but the teaser image reveals the car has been equipped with slender headlights and a revised grille. Ford also said the model will benefit from the "technology and quality improvements" revealed earlier this year on the facelifted Focus.

Ford declined to release performance specifications but the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine will likely carryover with 250 PS (184 kW / 247 hp) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The company also confirmed the model will be offered with a diesel engine for the first time. Nothing is official but previous reports have suggested the it will use a 2.0-liter TDCi engine that develops 184 PS (135 kW).

The Focus ST will celebrates its dynamic debut at the event and Ford has teamed up with Sony to stage a “virtual vs real” in Gran Turismo 6. According to Ford, " a designated gamer at the Ford stand will match skills against Ben Collins – formerly “The Stig” from Top Gear – with the action displayed on big screens throughout the festival. Visitors to the Ford stand also have the chance to record their own times on the Gran Turismo 6 simulators."

For years, we've been hearings rumors about the prospect of a scorching hot Focus with the RS tag, but Ford officials from both sides of the Atlantic have been deliberately vague about the subject. This time, though, it's not about hearsay, but about a prototype Focus packing some interesting performance hardware and which we believe, could be a test mule for the RS.

At a first glance, the partially-covered tester looks like a 252hp Focus ST (itself, due for a facelift this weekend), but besides the changes hiding behind the wrapped front end, the hatch sported a different exhaust layout, with two separate pipes instead of the ST's center-mounted tips.

Other telltale signs are the beefy 19-inch alloy wheels (the ST has 18" rims) wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, size 235/35 R19, which sit in front of huge brakes, and the testing gear and wires popping out from the auxiliary gauge pod on the center console of the car.

In regards to which engine may power the next iteration of the RS, your best bet would be FoMoCo's new 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit featured in the Mustang, possibly tuned to deliver somewhere around 330-horses, enough to get the edge over the likes of Subaru's 305hp WRX STI and VW's 296hp Golf R.

The previous Focus RS (not offered in the States) channeled power to the front wheels through a manual gearbox and a Quaife automatic torque-biasing differential to improve traction. The new one, could keep a similar FWD setup, though, we have heard rumors about AWD too.

If the Focus RS has indeed received the green light for production, we could see it in showrooms within the next year.

Will likely be FWD

A chassis testing mule of the 2016 Ford Focus RS has been caught on camera in Germany by our spy photographers.

The last hurrah for the current generation Focus will represent a range-topping RS version set to come out sometime in 2016, a year before the all-new model is scheduled to hit showrooms. Likely to retain a front-wheel drive layout, the RS variant is believed to feature a tweaked Revoknuckle front suspension (Ford's version of the MacPherson strut) together with an electronic differential to better cope with all that power sent to the front axle which could cause torque steer problems.

Motivation is expected to come from the 2.3-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine found in the new Mustang where it develops more than 305 bhp (227 kW) and 406 Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. In the Focus RS, the engine could be further tweaked to unleash 350 bhp (261 kW) although this hasn't been confirmed yet.

The car spotted here was only a chassis testing mule wearing the body of the Focus STwith a lower sports suspension, front lip spoiler and larger air intakes. It also had a different exhaust pipe arrangement together with a modified roof-mounted spoiler.

Since we mentioned the 247 bhp Focus ST, we remind you the facelifted version will be introduced tomorrow at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The RS version will probably follow in the second half of next year as a 2016MY.

Debuts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

Ford has unveiled the 2015 Focus ST, ahead of its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Looking instantly recognizable, the facelifted model is distinguished by modified bumpers, a new hood and slimmer headlights. The car has also been equipped with restyled fog lights and new 18-inch alloy wheels.

The cabin receives a modest makeover that includes a flat bottom steering wheel, a redesigned center stack and improved climate controls. There's also a new center console with a media bin that houses a smart USB charger.

Under the hood, two engines will be available. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder carries over and produces 250 PS (183 kW) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the hatchback to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 154 mph (247 km/h). Thanks to a new engine start/stop system, the model averages 41.5 mpg UK (34.5 mpg US / 6.8 L/100km) with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km.

Interestingly, the U.S. spec model is rated at 252 bhp (188 kW) and 270 lb-ft (365 Nm) of torque. Ford declined to elaborate but its performance should echo the European variant.

Speaking of European variants, there's a new 2.0-liter TDCi diesel engine that develops 185 PS (136 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the car to run from 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds and hit a top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h). In terms of fuel efficiency, owners can expect to average 64.2 mpg UK (53.4 mpg US / 4.4 L/100km) with CO2 emissions of 114 g/km.

The 2015 Focus ST also boasts a retuned suspension with new front springs and sportier shock absorbers. There's also an improved power steering system, an upgraded torque vectoring control system and a new Electronic Transitional Stability function that intervenes as "required to maintain optimal precision and control during rapid changes of direction at speed – for example in a lane-change situation."

According to Ford of Europe Vice President of Product Development Joe Bakaj, “Ford has long enjoyed a reputation for producing performance hatchbacks with superb driving dynamics and the new Focus ST more than lives up to that pedigree." He went on to say "The engineering enhancements to the suspension, steering and electronic control systems deliver greater responsiveness, agility, precision and an exhilarating driving experience – whichever powertrain you choose.”

The Ford ST will be available to order in Europe this fall and the first deliveries are slated for early 2015.

FORD'S NEW FOCUS ST PERFORMS AT GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

- New Ford Focus ST makes global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed – demonstrating the vehicle's performance and enhanced driving dynamics on famed hill climb
- New chassis control technologies, re-tuned suspension and steering help deliver a driving experience that is even more responsive, balanced and refined
- Ford introduces diesel Focus ST that offers 114 g/km CO2, Auto-Start-Stop technology that improves fuel efficiency of 250PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost model by 6 per cent
- Sporty and aggressive new five-door and wagon models offer a muscular body kit; unique lamp, grille and bumper designs; and new 19-inch alloy wheels
- Well-crafted interior features ergonomic controls, Recaro seats and sports steering wheel
- New driver assistance and connectivity features include SYNC 2 connectivity system with high-resolution 8-inch colour touch screen and class-leading voice control

GOODWOOD, Sussex, 26 June 2014 – The new Focus ST makes its global debut tomorrow at the Goodwood Festival of Speed – the ideal location to showcase the speed and enhanced driving dynamics of the global performance car.

The most advanced Focus ST yet offers new chassis control technologies, tuned suspension and steering, and bespoke tyre specification that ensure an even more responsive, balanced and refined driving experience. And for the first time, it will be offered with the choice to two powerful engines – one petrol and diesel.

The first diesel Focus ST takes day-to-day usability and sportiness to a new level by delivering the most fuel‑efficient and lowest CO2 Ford performance car ever; 185PS 2.0‑litre TDCi achieves 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds, 64.2 mpg and 114 g/km CO2.*

For customers who prefer petrol, the 250PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, fuel efficiency of 41.5 mpg and 158 g/km CO2. Both models offer Auto-Start-Stop for the first time that improves the EcoBoost version's fuel efficiency by 6 per cent and help make it the most fuel-efficient petrol Focus ST ever.

"The new Focus ST delivers an even more sophisticated balance of performance, driving dynamics, refinement and style – the core of Ford's Sports Technologies DNA," said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. "Even more enjoyable and rewarding to drive and with the choice of diesel power for the first time, the new Focus ST is in a class of its own."

The Focus ST also will benefit from technology and craftsmanship first revealed earlier this year for the new Ford Focus – the world's best-selling global nameplate.** The sporty and aggressive new five-door and wagon models will offer class-leading driver assistance technologies and connectivity features including the SYNC 2 in-car connectivity system.

Ford has sold more than 140,000 Focus ST models in 40 countries worldwide since the car was first launched in 2002.

Enhanced driving dynamics

Ford Team RS, the award-winning European arm of Ford's Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the number one objective for the new Focus ST.

The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier new shock absorber tuning front and rear. In combination with the model-specific anti-roll bars and rear springs from the previous generation ST, these enhancements deliver an even sharper dynamic performance.

The calibration of the Electronic Power Assisted Steering and electronic vehicle control systems also has been revised to meet the specific sporting requirements of the new Focus ST.

These changes deliver:

- A quicker response from the variable ratio steering, improving turn-in and delivering better overall balance
- A new Electronic Transitional Stability function in the advanced three-stage Electronic Stability Programme. This senses vehicle stability and driver inputs, intervening as required to maintain optimal precision and control during rapid changes of direction at speed – for example in a lane-change situation
- Revised Electronic Torque Vectoring Control settings that further optimise wheel torque distribution, maximizing traction through corners and increasing agility

Power delivery refinement under hard acceleration – particularly front wheel traction and gear shift quality – is also assisted by engine mounts engineered specifically to accommodate the performance of the new Focus ST. Additionally,Ford worked with Michelin to develop a new 19-inch tyre that complements the driving dynamics, especially maximising lateral grip.

"Ford has long enjoyed a reputation for producing performance hatchbacks with superb driving dynamics and the new Focus ST more than lives up to that pedigree," Bakaj added. "The engineering enhancements to the suspension, steering and electronic control systems deliver greater responsiveness, agility, precision and an exhilarating driving experience – whichever powertrain you choose."

Power of choice

The new 185PS 2.0-litre diesel engine that debuts in the new Focus ST has been optimised to deliver ST performance and character alongside fuel efficiency and everyday practicality.

The increased power output of the Focus ST 2.0-litre TDCi – a 23 per cent gain over the 150PS 2.0-litre engine in the new Focus range – is achieved by electronic calibration, a revised air intake system and a new sports-tuned exhaust.

Peak power is developed at 3,500 rpm and there is 400Nm of torque available from 2,000-2,750 rpm, enabling the new Focus ST diesel to achieve a maximum speed of 135mph. The torque output enables impressive in-gear acceleration and strong performance at low rpm. In 6th gear, acceleration from 50-75mph takes just 9.7 seconds in sixth gear, the combination of a shorter ratio and the increased power enabling the Focus ST to outpace the 150PS Focus by 2.2 seconds.

Ford's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing technology, and high-pressure direct-injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak power is available at 5,500 rpm, 360Nm of torque is available from 2,000-4,500 rpm, and maximum speed is 154mph.

Both engines use a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shift. The gear ratios – exclusive to ST and matched individually to each engine – deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed.

Powerful appearance

The new Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted bonnet; slimmer headlamps and rectangular foglamps.

The sports bodykit also includes body‑coloured side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimised for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal centre tailpipes.

Black lamp bezels, ST badging and new 19-inch ST Design alloy wheels – that are available as an option – complete the look.

"Focus ST has proved very popular with Ford's sporty customers and the new model takes that to an even more striking and dramatic level," said Martin Smith, executive design director, Ford of Europe. "The signature honeycomb upper grille has been reproportioned, there are new rectangular fog lamps in the outer apertures, and the lower fascia offers a much sharper definition and profile. At the rear, the width of the car is emphasised by a new full-width graphic."

A new dark grey exterior paint colour called Stealth is introduced exclusively to the Focus ST. Deep Impact Blue also is new to the range that includes Tangerine Scream, Frozen White, Panther Black and Race Red.

Cockpit-style cabin

Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout that also is simpler, with a clearer visual connection between the key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin.

An additional bank of three gauges – an ST hallmark – is situated on the instrument binnacle and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim; a satin chrome-topped gear lever; and ST pedals deliver the interior that ST drivers expect.

Satin chrome door grab handles and illuminated aluminium scuff plates add extra touches of refinement, and sports seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, and also are comfortable for every day driving.

The new Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature grey/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colours (Tangerine Scream; Performance Blue; Smoke Storm or Race Red); ST3 seats have a full charcoal black leather finish.

Advanced technologies

Driver assistance, convenience and connectivity technologies that will be introduced for the first time include the Ford SYNC 2 connectivity system. SYNC 2 offers access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones using class-leading voice control and a high-definition, 8-inch colour touchscreen that displays the ST logo on start-up.

Adaptive Front Lighting, available for the first time on the Focus ST, adjusts the intensity and angle of the Bi-Xenon HID headlamp beams according to vehicle speed, steering angle and distance to objects to provide optimal illumination. Cross Traffic Alert also is a new addition for Focus ST, and warns drivers reversing from parking spaces if other vehicles are about to cross their path.

Ford's enhanced Active City Stop collision avoidance system – now operative at speeds of up to 31mph – readies the brakes if a potential impact is detected and – if the driver does not respond – will automatically apply the brakes. Lane Keeping Aid applies steering torque to guide the Focus ST back in to lane if drifting is detected.

Available to order in Europe from autumn 2014, the first new Focus ST models are scheduled to be in dealerships from early 2015. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Cars are judged differently depending on who tests them and over what period. The best and most insightful kinds of tests are those done by proper enthusiasts over a period of months, which is why this review of the Ford Focus ST features facts that are particularly valuable since it’s now been updated and we need try and accurately gauge just by what margin.

Ford says the new, revised car is better in every single way, except for the power which is exactly the same as before, improving steering response, stability and cornering, plus treating itself to a medium helping of less-ugly on the outside (especially its face) and less-cluttered on the inside.

CarThrottle emphasizes what the (pre-facelift) car’s qualities are, first of all: it’s fun, it’s fast, it steers well, it sounds good and it’s especially distinctive if you have it finished in Tangerine Scream; it’s said to be comfy for what it is too. What they aren’t so keen about, but seem to understand in the context of the car, is the high level of concentration needed to drive it, especially in the wet.

From congested roads in Michigan to the Nürburgring racetrack, Ford continues to roll out and test prototypes for a super-hot version of the Focus with the heritage-rich RS badge. This model will give the Blue Oval the weapon it needs to combat the VW Golf R, Subaru WRX STI and in the near future, the European market-only Honda Civic Type R as well.

Bypassing the trick-ST logos, the silver-colored RS prototype wears the body of the pre-facelift Focus, with its front-end entirely covered in camouflage, while at the back we see the unique exhaust layout with two wide-set outlets.

What you see in these scoop shots isn't what you're going to get when Ford releases the production car next year, as this is an unfinished tester. The Focus RS of the past had a more aggressive look than the ST with distinct details and aero mods, and we don’t expect anything less from the new model.

It is widely thought that the Focus RS will feature Ford's new direct-injection 2.3-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost turbo used in the latest Mustang where it's rated at "over" 305hp and 300 lb-ft of torque (406 Nm). Of course, there's nothing stopping Ford from tuning the inline four to deliver anywhere up to 350hp to match the older limited-edition Focus RS500.

There has been talk about Ford employing all-wheel drive, but chances are that the new RS will stick with a front-wheel-drive layout using a different front suspension setup and a torque-biasing differential to keep the car's nose in check.