A few months ago Ford was testing their new Focus RS on the Nurburgring and today they released a teasing picture and what more can I say that I looks very “racy” with its new wings and spoilers, bonnet air vents or the blistered wheel arches. The same “racy” looks are used on the interior, but should be very comfortable as well.

The 2008 Ford Focus RS superhatch, will use a 2.5L modified Volvo engine with five-cylinders that sports 280hp unlike opposed to those 225hp on the ST model and 400 lb-ft torque.

We don’t have a price for this runner but it should be available on the streets, late 2008 or early 2009.

via AutoExpress

Ford will be showing the Kuga crossover concept next week in Frankfurt. The Kuga is the offroad version of the Ford Focus, based on the same platform.

The production version of the Kuga should be pretty similar to the concept that was shown in Frankfurt: the Kuga is already an evolution of the Iosis X concept that was shown last year in Paris.

All-New Ford Kuga in Brief

* Stylish Ford Kuga crossover will be previewed at Frankfurt Motor Show in near production form ahead of sales launch in early 2008
* Inspired by the iosis X Concept that was revealed at the 2006 Paris Motor Show
* Kuga is the latest showcase for Ford’s ‘kinetic design’
* Impressive on-road driving dynamics with substantial off-road ability
* Model range features ‘intelligent’ 4WD and FWD systems
* Powered by Ford’s acclaimed 2.0-litre 136 PS (101 kw) Duratorq TDCi diesel engine
* Benefits from strong Ford Focus lineage
* First crossover designed and developed in-house by Ford of Europe
* To be produced at Ford’s Saarlouis plant in Germany

Although there have been spy photos of the proposed new Focus RS Mk II earlier in the year, it has now been reported that Ford has planned to ditch the production of it.

According to reports, the Mk II which was planned for late 2008 was ditched because of concerns over CO2 emissions. On the other hand a spokesman has reported it was canned because any car that is brought to market has to be profitable and there was not enough demand across the globe besides the home of the RS which is Britain where the Focus RS Mk I was well received

The Focus RS Mk II was rumoured to have at least 300bhp (225kW) and four wheel drive. This would have at least made it a serious competitor for the Subarus and Mitsubishi Lancer Evos. (more…)

Ford Motor Co. has finally sold Aston Martin, a sports car maker it owned along with Land Rover, Jaguar and Volvo, to a British consortium. The consortium is led by Prodrive boss dave Richards, and this could mean a ot of technological collaboration with his company, which is renowned for its motorsport innovations. The price is said to be 439m Pounds, although Ford will retain a 40m Pound stake in the company.

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