The newest addition to the range of high-performance Fords on offer is the new Focus XR5 Turbo, which went on sale across Australia in May, retailing for around $36,000 (Australian dollars). The pricing structure was announced by Tom Gorman, President of
Ford Australia, at the Melbourne International Motor Show.
"Value for money is a cornerstone of the
Ford brand and the new German-engineered and built Focus XR5 Turbo certainly lives up to that reputation, combining a high performance turbocharged engine, slick six-speed manual transmission and razor sharp handling for under $36,000,” said Gorman. “Focus XR5 Turbo combines performance with practicality; offering usability and versatility just as its siblings do, with additional power and performance in tribute to its rally-bred origins"
In designing and manufacturing the XR5 Turbo,
Ford modified and stiffened the basic Focus chassis, as well as lowering the entire vehicle by 25 mm. The handling capabilities of the car have been improved through the stiffening of both the front and rear springs, as well as the inclusion of anti-roll bars with a larger diameter. The brakes have also been improved, to include 320 mm x 28 mm ventilated front discs bearing huge callipers and pads.
To compensate for the extra power and agility, upgraded safety features have been added, including a rigid passenger cell, protected foot wells, collapsible pedals and steering column, side impact door beams and Ford’s DSC (Dynamic Stability Control). Twin front and side airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are also included as standard.
In terms of design, the interior features Recaro sports seats and an extra instrument panel, which displays oil temperature and pressure, as well as the turbocharger boost pressure. The XR5 Turbo is also fitted with a premium Sony sound system, featuring in-dash 6-CD changer and a total of eight speakers. Outside, the XR5 Turbo boasts an emphasised front bumper to give the car a lower stance, which includes an aggressive-looking lower grille panel. The finishing touches are added with the use of brushed aluminium to trim the fog lamp openings either side of the grille.
The new Focus XR5 Turbo features superb performance levels which more than merit its hot hatch status. It is equipped with a
Volvo Duratec 5-cylinder, 2.5-litre engine. This turbocharged powerplant is capable of producing 223 bhp at 6,000 rpm, with torque peaking at 236 lb/ft at 4,000 rpm. Closed-ratio, six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard.
Ford’s racing and performance section,
Ford TeamRS, based at the Dunton technical Centre in the United Kingdom, developed the model with the aim of creating a car which was both ideal for the performance driver, and offered a certain level of refinement at the same time.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Murph for www.sport-cars.org
April 1, 2008, 11:27 am
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