Currently reading: New Ford Focus RS RX Rallycross challenger video

Ford releases documentary explaining how Ken Block's new 600bhp Rallycross racer was created; even hotter road car under consideration

The new Ford Focus RS made its racing debut at the hands of Ken Block earlier this month, and now Ford has released a short video documentary revealing how the competition model was created.

The Ford Focus RS RX is racing in the FIA World Rallycross Championship, piloted by Block and Norwegian driver Andreas Bakkerud.

The race-spec RS RX features a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 600bhp and permanent four-wheel drive, as per current Rallycross specifications. Rallycross vehicles can sprint to 60mph from a standing start in 1.9sec - faster than an F1 car. 

The regular Focus RS is powered by a 2.3-litre Ford Ecoboost petrol engine producing 345bhp.

Fordfocusrsrx 03

During the development of the Focus RS, Autocar learned that an even more hardcore road variant of the car was under consideration, and that Ford Performance officials would gauge the public's reaction to the regular car to see if there was enough interest in a special edition version.

This even more hardcore RS would potentially come with more straight-line performance, greater levels of grip and a more aggressive look than the regular car. All this would be achieved through weight saving, an upgraded drivetrain, and by fitting more aerodynamic bodywork. The car would be pitched against premium competition including the Mercedes-AMG A45 and Audi's RS3.

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The development of the RS RX Rallycross car was a collaboration between the Ford Performance division, Ken Block's Hoonigan Racing Division and the UK-based M-Sport.

The 2016 FIA World Rallycross Championship features rounds taking place on international circuits, such as Germany's Hockenheim, the Circuit de Catalunya in Spain and Lydden Hill in the UK. After one round Bakkerud is currently placed fifth in the championship, while Block, who enjoyed a less successful 2016 debut, lies in 19th. The next round takes place on 6 May in Germany. 

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Peter Cavellini 29 April 2016

So...........?

600bhp is the target then?,well,er, no,on the Queens highway that would be obscene,anyway,with just 345bhp isn't that enough?!
smokescreen38 16 April 2016

Focus RS+

A more powerful Focus RS, please say a certain company has been helping co develop the engine. Then we can see the return of RS Cosworth. That would be the premium brand badge to take on the Merc & Audi. Don't think Ford could build them quick enough to meet demand.
vrskeith 15 April 2016

RS RX

Very Special RDU developed for this motor then. Details please GKN
No need for drift button on this one.
Engine spec please Ford.

Not interested in Price, as can't afford it.