Focus RS Outguns Mustang EcoBoost

Ford Motor Co. says the upcoming RS performance variant of its Focus small car will produce 345 hp. The output is considerably higher than most of the car's "pocket rocket" rivals and is nearly 10% more than the 315 hp figure Ford used when it unveiled the new global model in Germany earlier this year.

The Focus RS hatchback will be powered by the same base 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine available in the Mustang sports car that generates 310 hp. The extra oomph in the Focus RS comes from an upgraded twin-scroll turbocharger with a larger compressor. Other enhancements include a much larger intercooler and exhaust system and a less restrictive intake system, Ford says.

Torque is increased slightly in the RS to 324 lb-ft compared with the Mustang's 320 lb-ft. The car's overboost feature can bump this to 347 lb-ft for 15 seconds.

The engine is mated with a 6-speed manual transmission. All-wheel drive with a new dynamic torque-vectoring system is standard. As much as 70% of available torque can be delivered to the rear axle, all of which Ford says can be routed in a turn to the outside rear wheel.

Ford will market the RS above the current Focus ST in the U.S., where the performance model will be offered for the first time. Sales are expected to begin next year.