Fans of Ford's high-performance vehicles will be happy to hear that the Michigan-based automaker introduced the new version of its all-wheel-drive Focus RS on Tuesday.
The unveiling marks the U.S. debut for the hatchback, as Ford had only sold the two previous generations in Europe, according to the Los Angeles Times. The company will release the new Focus RS as a more affordable and attractive model for drivers concerned with performance.
"We are acutely aware of the benchmarks we have set ourselves with RS performance models through the years, and rest assured this new car raises the game to a new level," Jim Farley, president of Ford of Europe, Middle East and Africa, said during the car's announcement.
Features of the RS include a 315-horsepower, 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, 19-inch alloy wheels, Recaro seats and an eight-inch Sync touchscreen navigation system. The car's all-wheel-drive system sends different levels of power to both rear wheels, which provides additional traction and power for turns.
The new RS, which debuted at Ford's plant in Cologne, Germany, also comes with Brembo brakes and a six-speed manual transmission, the Detroit Free Press reported. Construction for the car will take place at the company's factory in Saarlouis, Germany.
Ford will make the Focus RS available to U.S. drivers sometime in 2016. The car will also go on sale in Europe and Asia, and it will be the first RS developed for sale around the world.
"The RS captures the promise of our brand," Farley said: "Great cars that are affordable."
