The Ford Focus RS500 is Real and These Spy Photos Are Proof

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

A new Ford Focus RS500 is in development and spy photographers have caught a prototype testing.

Late last year, rumors began spreading that Ford was planning an even hotter Focus RS model and this might be the first evidence of the new Ford Focus RS500. Although it currently looks similar to the existing Ford Focus RS, you can spot the extra vents on the hood that are likely necessary to help dissipate heat from the even more powerful engine underneath.

Details on the new Ford Focus RS500 are light at the moment, but expect it to lose quite a bit of weight while receiving upgrades to its suspension and brakes. It is also possible that Ford will equip it with a dual-clutch transmission from Getrag.

SEE ALSO: Ford Might be Planning a Hotter Focus RS

The first rumors suggest that the Ford Focus RS500 would could shed up to 220 pounds thanks to a stripped out interior, less noise insulation, carbon fiber-reinforced bodywork, aluminum suspension components and lighter brakes. It would undoubtedly get a power upgrade from the current 350-horsepower figure, but don’t expect it to increase significantly.

Discuss this story on our Ford Focus RS Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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  • Timothyhood Timothyhood on Jun 22, 2016

    I like that color! Is that the Stealth Gray? Looks different than from the web site--even better in photos than on Ford's web site. This sounds like the 350R equivalent of the Shelby. I'm guessing that all but the most track-minded of people will be happy with the RS, but for those who want the extra edge and aren't planning on doing much daily driving (definitely not a family car!), this could be quite a track star.

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