Ford's all new Focus RS makes global show debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Ford's all new Focus RS recently made its global public debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The high-performance road car pioneers the innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive system and delivers class-leading cornering speed, thrilling performance and unbridled driving enjoyment.

It comes with Dynamic Torque Vectoring which uses twin electronically-controlled clutch packs on each side of the rear drive unit.

These manage the car's front/rear torque split, and also can control the side-to-side torque distribution on the rear axle - delivering the 'torque vectoring' capability, which has a dramatic impact on handling and cornering stability. A maximum of 70 percent of the drive torque can be diverted to the rear axle. Up to 100 percent of the available torque at the rear axle can be sent to each rear wheel.

Other exclusive chassis features include sports suspension with stiffer spring rates and more efficient bushes and anti-roll-bars than those found in the Focus ST, and two-mode switchable dampers, which offer a firmer setting for track driving. A carefully tuned electric power-assisted steering system, working in combination with an optimised front suspension knuckle design and shorter steering link arms, delivers connected and responsive steering with outstanding feel.

Ford engineers worked closely with Michelin to develop a choice of high-performance 235/35 R19 tyres to complement the driving dynamics of the Focus RS; a standard Pilot Super Sport tyre for everyday use; and - for the first time on an RS - an optional Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre for enhanced vehicle dynamics on the track. The new rims also offers enhanced strength and impact resistance with weight savings of 600g per wheel.

The all new Focus RS also introduces advanced performance technologies, and is the first Ford RS equipped with selectable Drive Modes - Normal, Sport or Track settings - or a special Drift Mode and Launch Control.

Each mode can be selected using a carefully located switch alongside the gear lever, and has specific settings for the all-wheel drive (AWD) system, damper controls, Electronic Stability Control system, steering and engine responses, and exhaust sound.

Projected to deliver well in excess of 315bhp, the 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine for the all new Focus RS shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminium four-cylinder engine in the all new Mustang.

Increased output is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater air flow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximise charge density.

Engine breathing is also enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high-performance exhaust system with an electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe that helps optimise the balance of back pressure and noise output.