Ford Focus RS Limited Edition 2018

09th Mar 2018

Following on from the launch of the hugely popular 2017 Focus RS Edition, Ford have unveiled two new special models of its high-performance hatchback for 2018, the Focus RS Red Edition and Heritage Edition. Both are enhanced versions of the standard Focus RS, which already delivers a combination of mind-blowing performance and remarkable handling.

Focus RS Red Edition

On sale now with only 300 examples available in the UK, this Focus RS Limited Edition features striking Race Red paint with contrasting black roof, alloy wheels, door mirrors and rear spoiler.

The 350 PS 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine remains untouched, but all that power is more easily exploited thanks to the inclusion of a Quaife mechanical limited slip differential (LSD) on the front axle, an enhancement over the regular RS. The mechanical LSD improves grip and front-end responsiveness by redistributing torque from the engine to the wheel with more traction, helping you to make the most of the Ford Performance All Wheel Drive system. 0-62mph acceleration remains at a blistering 4.7sec with launch control enabled.

Ford Performance Director Leo Roeks is clearly a fan of the new handling improvements:

"For hardcore driving enthusiasts, the additional mechanical grip offered by the Quaife LSD will make it even easier to carry speed through a corner on the track, and maximise acceleration on the way out. The new setup also delivers greater mechanical stability and control when braking hard, and will help drivers set the car up for power-slides using Drift Mode," Roeks said. The Focus RS Edition takes our 'fun to drive' philosophy to a new level for an everyday road car."

Other standard features on the Focus RS Red Edition include:

Black cast 19in alloy wheels
Brembo four-piston monoblock callipers, finished in grey with a Brembo logo
Partial leather Recaro shell seats in ebony
Carbon fibre interior trim parts (auxiliary dials bezel, door handles and handbrake lever)
Privacy glass
Rear parking sensors
Electric folding mirrors
Cruise control with speed limiter
Ford KeyFree system
Heated steering wheel
Active City Stop

Focus RS Heritage Edition

As a last-hurrah for the Focus RS, which is bowing out after 3 years of great success, Ford have announced an ultra-rare Heritage edition, of which only 50 examples will be made available exclusively to UK buyers.

Finished in "Deep Orange" paintwork, the Heritage Edition pays homage to the classic Escort nameplate which is marking 50 years in the UK this year, performance models of which were often painted in a colour named "Tief Orange". Other visual upgrades include grey-finish brake callipers, plus black door mirrors, alloy wheels and rear spoiler, similar to the RS Red Edition but without the black roof.

Also similar to the Red Edition, the Heritage Edition is treated to a Quaife mechanical limited slip differential (LSD) - see above for the positive effects that has on the handling of the Focus. Where the cars divide mechanically is under the bonnet, where thie particular Ford Focus Limited Edition gains the FPM375 Mountune upgrade. This dealer-fitted tuning package contains a high-flow induction kit and uprated turbo re-circulating valve, and significantly increases overboost power from 350PS to 375PS and torque from 470Nm to 510Nm.