Ford has no plans to create a range-topping RS version of the current Focus, the company has confirmed. Previously, it was understood that a fourth generation of the hot hatch would depend on the development of a high-output hybrid powertrain to minimise CO2 emissions.
However, Ford has now confirmed that development of such a system has been deemed not cost-effective. This means the 276bhp Focus ST will be the fastest variant for the foreseeable future.
“As a result of pan- European emissions standards, increased CO2 taxation and the high cost of developing an RS with some form of electrification for a relatively low volume of vehicles, we are not planning another RS version of the Focus,” said a Ford spokesman. He also affirmed a commitment to Ford Performance cars in Europe, such as the ST models, Mustang and Ranger Raptor.
