The rumour mill has it that Ford is still considering launching a Fiesta RS and is developing it in parallel with the Focus RS. Engine power from the 1,6-litre turbopetrol engine is likely to increase to around the 170 kW level, from the current car’s 132. In order to cope with the additional power, a limited slip differential will be added, the suspension sport-tuned and the brakes upgraded.
If Ford can make a business case for the RS (and not step on the toes of its other performance products) then chances are that we may see the Fiesta RS in 2015. The speculated price for the vehicle is close to the R400 000 mark.
We were very impressed with the perfect balance between agility, handling and power of the Fiesta ST during our annual Performance Shootout and are hoping that the engineers at Ford can apply the extra power with the same flair if the vehicle makes it to market.
Click here for our drag race video of the Ford Fiesta ST vs. Peugeot 208 GTI.