I posted about the upcoming Ford Focus RS a few times already, but R&T apparently analyzed some video footage of a Ford Focus RS on the track and determined that the car is indeed AWD. I’m not sure I believe it. Video analysis of handling characteristics might not be enough.
I posted awhile back that Porsche might be going mainstream with turbocharged flat-four engines. Boxer engines aren’t the most efficient when it comes to making power, but they do offer outstanding balance (center of gravity, which will enhance handling).
Here’s another article:
http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-videos/the-4-cylinder-turbo-porsche-cayman-cometh
Do you like documentaries on car engines? Here’s one from Subaru of America on their horizontally-opposed engines (aka boxer engines).
I’ve not yet viewed it, but once I have, I’ll update this post with my comments (if any).
To read commentary responses to Subaru of America’s Facebook post, visit here:
http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-videos/matt-farah-tracks-the-2015-ecoboost-mustang
“Is the four-banger ‘Stang ready to depose the 5.0? Not quite, says Matt.”
I’m not sure what the above quoted comment is about. The Mustang EcoBoost was never meant as a Mustang GT replacement. It was created as a global car for people living in areas where fuel costs are a concern. As well, the car will benefit those who live in countries that tax car owners based on engine displacement. To expect this particular car to be an equivalent to a Mustang 5.0L is a bit ridiculous…most car makers ensure their product line follows a strict hierarchy and Ford is no exception.
The video footage is pretty cool…I just don’t care for the commentary. I really shouldn’t have expected much from the commentary, since Matt Farah is more of a street scene type of guy (he certainly isn’t of the caliber of most mainstream reviewers, such as R&T, MT, Automobile, and C&D).
If you’re a glutton for punishing commentary, you can also read the R&T’s Facebook comments about this particular subject:
From R&T:
Back in August, we got some bombshell news about the 2016 Ford Focus RS. Not just that it was abandoning its FWD heritage for an AWD setup, or that it was going to produce something in the order of 325 to 350 hp from a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four. The biggest surprise was that Ford is seriously considering selling it in North America, in limited numbers.
…our spies in Europe have captured a Focus RS flexing muscle and dropping camo. What we’re looking at is clearly not just an ST—larger reshaped front intakes direct more air to the intercooler, and larger ducts likewise feed air to the brakes and engine. More air means more power, and that’s exactly what the RS will bring to the table.
Read more @ http://www.roadandtrack.com/go/future-cars/the-mighty-2016-ford-focus-rs-shows-its-face
From Motor Trend:
An earlier Ford Focus RS mule wore a temporary front clip, while the latest prototype features a more aggressive hood and bumper that look better suited to the task of keeping the more powerful engine cool.
The last-generation Ford Focus RS was powered by a Volvo-sourced 2.5-liter turbocharged I-5 that sent power to the front wheels with the aid of Ford’s Revoknuckle front suspension. Unlike that model and the current Focus ST, the upcoming Focus RS will feature a new all-wheel drive system. Like the last Focus RS mule, this prototype features upgraded brakes behind its larger 19-inch wheels.
Read more @ http://wot.motortrend.com/1410_spied_camouflaged_ford_focus_rs_tests_near_the_ring.html
Curious about R&T’s and MT’s Facebook comments of the article and subject-matter? Visit here:
I ordered Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32s last month, but it took me 3 weeks to get my OEM wheels to the shop to have the tires mounted on them.
They look good, too! I can’t wait for the first snow (or hint of real cold weather).
Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32s in 235-40R-18 size
Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32s in 235-40R-18 size mounted on OEM STI wheels
I’ve retired my ASA JH3 wheels (with mounted Michelin Alpin PA2s). I wanted to go 18″ for my winter tires (so that I could use my OEM wheels).
The ASAs are now for sale…whoever buys them will have to get new tires, as the Alpins are dry-rotting. No, the ASAs are not pretty, but I never bought them for that. I bought them because they were cheap (they were 2nd-hand) and I’m not about to buy Volks as winter wheels (why would I do that?). The ASAs served their purpose. I’m sure they’ll look attractive enough for someone that’s new to Subarus (like I was).