Earlier in the week, we reported that spy shots had emerged of a test mule for a possible Ford Focus RS500 – an even higher-performance version of the all-wheel drive Focus RS hot hatch.
Since then, website Carscoops has reported that some of its European sources claim the forthcoming Focus RS500 will shed weight over the regular performance model using some number of carbon-fiber body panels and plastic side windows, in addition to the omission of some amount of sound-deadening and other expendable material. According to the website, the new Focus RS500 could even use carbon fiber brakes, which would have the extra benefit of lowering unsprung mass for faster suspension response.
What’s more, Ford is allegedly considering giving the new, highest-performance hot hatch things like an electronic limited-slip differential in the front, and a dual-clutch transmission in place of the standard 6-speed manual. Carscoops says the Ford Focus RS500 will likely target the current king of the segment – the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG – in terms of power output. That hot hatch makes an impressive 376 horsepower.
Like the previous Focus RS500, this one will likely come at the very end of production for this generation of Ford Focus, making for a properly rousing send-off when it’s launched (likely) next year. Like its predecessor, the “500” in its name may indicate a limited production run of just 500 examples.
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