Don’t look now but more Ford RS talk is afoot with a development mule running around the Nürburgring last week according to sources from Car. It is expected that the Ford RS all gussied up in it’s new Focus skin will be announced at the Geneva motor show in 2008.

The above pictures show advance electronic load-monitors measuring the car’s handling and ride characteristics. The RS team are working to ensure the volvo sourced AWD platform performs in concert with the upgraded steering, suspension and overhauled engine.

The blown 2.5L 5 cylinder engine sourced from the Ford ST is expected to receive over 300bhp (220kW) and 280lb ft of torque for true pinned to the seat performance. This performance is achieved through a new variable intake and exhaust manifold, uprated turbo with larger intercooler, larger oil cooler and reinforced con-rods.

Many a Ford ST / XR5 admirer have been waiting for some fresh clues that an AWD hero car to challenge the Evo X and Impreza STI was coming, thankfully the wait is over. The Ford RS is expected to be priced around the £28,000 upon it’s release around this time next year.

All join me in praying to the Hot Hatch Heavens that the RS enjoys worldwide distribution ensuring many fans enjoy what will be a performance bargain.

[SOURCE: Car via Autoblog]