The Ford Focus RS hatchback’s development has been put on hold as the American multinational automaker now focuses on finishing the full range of derivatives being produced off the Focus platform. As of now, Ford is manufacturing up to 11 automobiles from the Focus underpinnings which include a combination of Focus variants like the Focus Electric car and spin-off models such as the Kuga compact SUV. Ford’s vehicle line director for small cars, Gunnar Herrmann, says that the firm needs to decide the technological and performance direction for the new Focus RS and it needs more time.

“We are not working on the new RS right now. It’s just because we have other priorities to clean up and effectively we have to make a final decision on how we proceed as we have other items to proceed with,” he added.

The new Ford Focus RS is expected to generate more power than the previous model which offered 224kW and 440Nm from its 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine. However, Ford still doesn’t want to use heavier all-wheel drive hardware beneath and will continue using its distinctive ‘Revoknuckle’ front suspension that works in conjunction with a limited slip differential to help minimize torque steer.

The Ford Focus RS has now discontinued its development globally, with Australia receiving the last set of production (around 300 in 2010). That performance too came at considerable expense, with Ford Australia charging $59,990 for the hottest Focus. Herrmann says that there is no need for disappointment by driving enthusiasts about the delay of RS, and that the new Focus ST will be far better to drive than its forerunner, which was badged as the Focus XR5 Turbo. The new Ford Focus ST, which will maintain its European badge for Australia this time around when it arrives towards the end of the year, uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 184kW and 360Nm.

via Caradvice