FOCUS RS RED EDITION

Chassis tweaks smooth out hot hatch’s bouncy nature

IN TYPICAL FASHION, FORD IS SAYING goodbye to the Mk3 Focus RS with a run of special models. First there was the Edition (an RS with an LSD on the front axle), then the Red Edition (an RS with an LSD and some red paint) and, finally, the Heritage Edition (an RS with an LSD, some orange paint and a Stage 1 Mountune upgrade). Thanks to its ruby hue, this particular car is clearly the Red Edition, but to confuse matters it has also been equipped with the Heritage Edition’s power upgrade, which take the engine from 345bhp and 347lb ft of torque to 370bhp and 376lb ft.

The Red Edition also gets Recaro bucket seats as standard (normally optional) and carbonfibre interior trim, but it’s the chassis alterations that make this car feel dramatically different to other Focus RSS we’ve driven.

Although what’s been changed isn’t mentioned in the press literature, or even spoken about by Ford, it’s clear something has gone on under its wheelarches, as it rides with a composure unlike any other Focus RS we’ve driven. Where the regular car would try to bounce you out of your seat, this one remains smooth. The back end still makes the car writhe around out of corners, but it’s less blatant now.

By turning down some of the Focus RS’S exuberance, the Red Edition allows you to enjoy the car’s talents more often. Yes, it’s a bit more conventional than the regular RS, but it’s all the better for it.