It seems like Ford is going ahead with bringing an even more extreme version of their recently launched Ford Focus RS to market. The Ford Focus RS has been a great success so far and received very positive reviews all around. A possible limited-run version of the Focus RS could be called the Ford Focus RS500.
In these spy shots a more potent version of the RS is seen speeding around the ring and its exterior modifications clearly hint at more power and further improved aerodynamic functionality. The front air intakes are slightly larger and this test mule features air vents on the bonnet as well.
Ford mentioned before that they are considering upgrading the RS drivetrain and bring extra grip, performance and handling capabilities to the hot hatch through weight saving. The extra weight that would come by upgrading its current 345 hp 2.3-liter engine would be crossed out against weight saving measures that include the use of Polycarbonate glazing, a carbon fiber reinforced bodywork, aluminum suspension, carbon fiber brakes, less noise insulation and stripping out all unnecessary attributes from the car’s interior.
Possible new additions could come in the form of an electronic limited-slip differential for the front axle, a GKN-supplied rear drive unit and a dual-clutch automatic transmission. All future upgrades considered the RS500 is out to challenge the 0-100 sprint benchmark in the super hatch league currently set by the German Mercedes-AMG A45 (4.2 seconds) and Audi RS3 (4.3 seconds).
The current Focus RS is capable of hitting 100 km/h from a standstill in 4.7 seconds, although Ford engineers explained that in fact it would come far closer to the current benchmark when the Focus RS is specced with 19-inch forged wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slicks.
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