Ford Focus RS500 unveiled

This matte-black RS500 is one of just 500 limited edition models being made to celebrate the end of the current model RS. The 500 individually numbered cars will be available only in Europe and buyers are already lining up to snare the elusive car.

The RS500 gets a turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, which generates 15 per cent more power than the standard Focus RS to provide more top-end power. The hot Focus will hit 100km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 265km/h. Max power 260kW at 6000revs and 460Nm from 2500 revs. The engine has also undergone other tweaks to enhance its breathing and combustion.

The changes include a significantly larger air-to-air intercooler to deliver a cooler, denser charge; a larger air filter box for increased airflow; larger diameter exhaust downpipe; and an uprated fuel pump, along with an updated software calibration to optimise the performance of the revised engine.

The RS500's breath-taking power is matched by an equally dramatic appearance. The limited edition model sports a unique matte black "foil" paint finish with matching alloy wheels.

"We were determined to mark the end of production for the current and acclaimed Focus RS with something even more special'' says Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe's vice president for Product Development. Australian RS fans should not be too disappointed though. Ford's global technical chief, Derrick Kuzak, says the next-generation Focus RS will be a global car as part of the company's One Ford program, meaning there is a strong chance it will head Down Under.