The Ford Focus RS has reverted to forbidden fruit in North America, but Europeans are in for a treat.
Car Magazine says the redesigned 2021 model will receive a significant performance boost as it will adopt a hybridized powertrain and a trick all-wheel drive system.
Starting under the hood, the publication says we can expect a familiar 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. There’s no word on its output at this point, but the previous model had 345 hp (257 kW / 350 PS). This enabled the hot hatch to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.7 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 165 mph (266 km/h).
Also Read: Next Ford Focus RS To Get Mild Hybrid Powertrain With 400 HP
While the engine is slated to carryover, the Focus RS will reportedly be equipped with a mild hybrid system that features a 48-volt starter-generator. It will reportedly provide an electric boost which could enable the car to have a combined output of around 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS).
Speaking of electricity, the model is rumored to adopt a rear eTwinster motor from GKN. Little is known about it, but the motor will give the Focus RS all-wheel drive and dynamic handling thanks to torque vectoring.
On the styling front, we can expect the Focus RS to be even more extreme than the Focus ST. While we haven’t seen prototypes yet, we can expect a more aggressive front bumper and a revised grille. The model could also be equipped with a prominent diffuser, a sporty dual exhaust system and lightweight alloy wheels.
The upgrades should continue in the cabin and we wouldn’t be surprised to find Recaro sports seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. We can also expect special trim and plenty of RS badging.
Note: Ford Focus ST pictured
