Ford Focus RS Limited Edition 2017 pricing and spec confirmed

Ford Australia has confirmed it will import 500 Focus RS Limited Edition all-wheel drive (AWD) hot hatches in November, each wearing a price tag of $56,990 – $6000 upstream from the regular model.

For the extra cash, buyers get a Quaife front limited-slip differential (LSD) to better send power from the 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant to the road.

According to Ford, the helical mechanical LSD has been designed to improve traction and cornering, using gears rather than clutches for a smoother operation.

'Nitrous Blue' duco is standard on the Limited Edition RS

“Our new limited-edition Focus RS represents accessible performance at its finest,” said Ford Performance chief Jamal Hameedi.

“Improving on the thrilling driving dynamics of the Focus RS is no small task – but our Ford Performance engineers have delivered a drivetrain capable of wringing every drop of performance from the engine.”

Also standard on the new Limited Edition model are lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in sticky 235/35 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres – an optional $3500 package on the standard Focus RS.

Inside, the new Focus RS gains Recaro bucket seats with Nitrous Blue detailing.

Aesthetically, the limited-edition Focus RS is differentiated from the standard version by 'Nitrous Blue' duco – a $500 option on the standard hot hatch – and a gloss black roof, side mirrors and roof-mounted rear spoiler.

Inside, the new Focus RS gains Recaro bucket seats with Nitrous Blue detailing to match the paintwork. An 8.0-inch 'Sync3' multimedia system sits atop the centre stack.

Engine performance remains unchanged with 257kW of power and 440Nm of torque (470Nm with an over boost function) produced from the 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, resulting in a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 4.7 seconds.

Selectable drive modes – including the infamous Drift Mode – adjusts steering, engine and exhaust settings, with dampers altered via a separate button.

When it lands in November, the Focus RS Limited Edition will face renewed competition for the hot hatch crown from the new-generation 228kW/400Nm Honda Civic Type R that arrives in October from $50,990 and the facelifted 213kW/380Nm Volkswagen Golf R landing in showrooms this month from $52,990.

Is the Ford Focus RS still the king of the hot hatches or has its thunder been stolen by rivals? Tell us what you think in the comments below.