Rumorpile: Focus RS To Pack 2.3L EcoBoost Four With 350 HP?

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 8, 2012

The rumors of the next-generation of the Focus RS have been like a roller-coaster ride. There has been rumors dealing with the Focus RS being put on the back burner for a Fiesta RS, the Focus RS sharing its engine with the next generation Mustang, and what could be the possible engine specs.Now, we have some more track to add.

Auto Express is reporting that the next-generation Focus RS will utilize a new 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder that could be producing as much as 350 HP. This engine could also be used in the next-gen Mustang.

Transmission-wise, the Focus RS will utilize a six-speed manual. There are debates going on in Ford whether to use a version of the company's PowerShift dual-clutch gearbox.

“There is a trend to go to dual clutch, but they are heavier. Whether we should have a manual and a PowerShift is still up for debate,” said Chris Caven, calibration controls engineer at Team RS.

Like the previous Focus RSs, the next-generation will send all 350 HP to the front wheels. To help alleviate of the torque-steer, understeer, and other problems, Ford is working on new active limited-slip differential - E-Diff.

“You could drop a mechanical diff in as we did with the old Focus RS, but an E-diff would take that a step forward in that you can really optimize traction in all situations,” said Team RS powertrain engineering manager Len Urwin.

The new Focus RS will be arriving sometime in 2014.

Source: Auto Express

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.