Reports are suggesting that Ford may be considering developing an even more radical version of its Focus RS hot hatchback, which is due for launch in South Africa in July 2016.

The looming arrival of the Ford Focus RS has enthusiasts frothing at the mouth. The reason? It’s powered by an uprated four-cylinder 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine delivering 257 kW and 440 Nm of torque, the same engine that powers the Ford Mustang. Even though the RS’s outputs don’t quite match those of the Audi RS3 (270 kW / 465 Nm) and Mercedes-AMG A 45 (280 kW / 475 Nm), it might be enough to ruffle their feathers when it arrives.

Also see:

Track Race: Audi RS3 vs Merc-AMG A45 vs Honda Civic Type R vs BMW M2 [Video]

Drag Race: Audi RS3 vs Mercedes A45 AMG [Video]

Audi RS3 (2016)Review

Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC (2016) Review

Ford Focus RS500 in the works?

While we wait patiently for the RS’s arrival, Ford is reportedly mulling over the possibility of creating an even more powerful version of the RS, the RS500, and if this fruit comes to bear, it could become the “fastest-accelerating hatchback in history”.

Details of the RS500 are scarce at the moment but reports suggest that it will feature an upgraded version of the 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine from the RS, which may see it attain hot hatchback stardom.

The RS500’s development will greatly depend on how well the Focus RS is received globally. If Ford feels there is a market big enough for such a high-performance hatchback, it could very well see the light of day. Let’s hope that day comes sooner, rather than later…