Rumours are that Ford is planning on bringing a new Focus RS by 2016, to build on the the former generation RS lineup which was headlined by the RS500.

Ford of Europe COO Barb Samardzich revealed a few details about the highly-anticipated model, and mentioned to AutoExpress that she can’t confirm anything as yet, however, “there’s a strong desire to build a Focus RS”.

“We have a rich heritage of RS cars, and we’re not about to let any competitors overtake us in that respect. You can rest assured that Martin Smith, (director of design at Ford Europe) and his team are fully focused on the future of our performance strategy.”

Details are very limited at the moment, but speculation around the industry is that theFord Focus RS is expected to use a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that delivers between 246- 261 kW. That power will reportedly be sent to the front wheels through an electronic differential, and the model might also use the company’s Revoknuckle front suspension which has been designed specifically for high-performance front-wheel drive applications.

Currently, the facelifted 2015 Ford Focus features the award winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and more advanced technologies that improve driver comfort and safety. It will also be the first vehicle in South Africa to offer the new fuel efficient 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine which delivers between 110 kW and 132 kW of power.

The current Focus is expected to be replaced by a new version in 2017, so it’s most likely that if everything goes well, theFord Focus RS variant might launch in 2016.

*Please note pictured is the 2009 Ford Focus RS.