Ford Focus RS500: First Look

Jay Williams - 30/March/2010

Saarlouis, Germany - Ford has announced that it will be launching a new limited edition Focus RS model, called the RS500. This ultimate performance machine will make its official debut at the  Leipzig Motor Show in Germany on April 9.

As the special name plate suggests, the new RS500 will have a limited production run of just 500 vehicles, with each vehicle being individually-numbered.

The new Ford Focus RS500 is said to generate 15 per cent more power than the standard Focus RS.

Under the RS500's bonnet is the 305 PS turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine from the standard Focus RS, that has been upgraded to deliver significantly more top-end and mid-range power, but without compromising engine strength and responsiveness at lower revs.

Peak power is increased by 33kW to 260kW at 6,000rpm, while torque has been increased from 440 to 460Nm, delivered across a broad speed range from 2,500 to 4,500rpm.

To achieve the balance between mid-range and top-end performance, the engine has received a range of performance enhancements aimed at improving the engine’s breathing and combustion.

The changes include a significantly larger air-to-air intercooler  which provides a cooler, denser charge, a larger air filter box for increased airflow, larger diameter exhaust downpipe and an upgraded fuel pump, along with a re-tuned ECU to optimise performance of the revised engine.

To help cope with the increase in power – a revised cylinder head gasket, ultra-durable metal sprayed cylinder bores, revised pistons and new connecting rods, insure the strength and engine reliability.

Ford say that the Focus RS500 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 263 km/h (similar to the standard RS).

In tune with RS500’s breathtaking power, is an equally dramatic appearance. The limited edition model features a unique matt black 'foil' paint scheme with matching 19-inch alloy wheels, along with black grille, twin blade rear spoiler and black rear diffuser.

Stepping inside the car, customers will notice a series of special features which are unique to this limited edition model.

The centre console is distinguished by the car's hand-engraved individually-numbered metal plaque (001 - 500), and by a unique carbon-effect finish  which carries a distinctive RS pattern.

The RS500's interior also features a special red colour scheme, notably on the stitching of the leather trim on the steering wheel, door trim and gear lever, and on the floor mats.

Customers also have the option of specifying the bespoke Recaro front sports seats in full red leather.

All Focus RS500 vehicles will be equipped as standard:

Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated windscreen
Rear parking distance sensors
Tyre deflation detection system
Automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers
Auto dimming rear-view mirror
Ford key-free start
Enhanced connectivity with Bluetooth, voice control and USB port
Sony 6-CD audio system
Recaro sports front seats with partial leather trim

Two optional features include a touchscreen DVD navigation and audio system, and full leather Recaro front seats in red.

The Focus RS500 will start production at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany during May and will be limited to 500 customer vehicles for twenty European markets, in line with the anticipated level of interest.

However, don't expect to see the Focus RS500 on Australian shores, as all models will be made in left-hand drive only.

Related Links
- Ford Mondeo Tri-Fuel + Wagon (2009)
- Ford Mondeo (Road Test)
- Ford iosis MAX Concept (2010)
- Ford Territory MkII (2009)
- Ford Focus (2009)
- Ford Ka (2009)
- Ford Fiesta (Road Test)
- Ford Falcon G6 (Road Test)
- Ford Focus Diesel (Road Test)
- Ford Focus RS (2009)
- Ford Fiesta XR4 (Road Test)
- Ford Focus XR5 Turbo (Road Test)
- Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo (Road Test)
- Ford Ranger (2009)