Ford redesigned the new Focus with, well, a keen focus on fuel economy. The SE trim with the SFE Package delivers up to 40 mpg highway. However, Ford Racing saw behind the Focus sedan's conservative ways and tweaked it for the track. The result: an all-new Ford Focus ST-R racer.

Of course, Ford Racing saw the Frankfurt Motor Show as the premier opportunity to introduce its speedy new Ford Focus ST-R racer. Fast, nimble, and highly competitive, the Focus ST-R appeals to professional racers, amateur racers and general track enthusiasts alike. Though, the thoughtfully designed competition car is meant to perform only on the track.

Designed specifically to tear up the track, the new Ford Focus ST-R is fitted with an enviously powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, uprated brakes, and track-tuned suspension. Of course, it is also fitted with a FIA roll cage to keep occupant(s) safe at extreme high speeds.

"...The road-going Focus features best-in-class brakes, handling and powertrains and the design and functionality of the various vehicle systems have helped us to develop a global technical specification for teams wanting to race the new Focus cost effectively," says Jost Capito, Global Performance, Vehicles and Motorsports Business Development, Ford.  "Ford Racing in North America has taken this effort and developed the new [Ford] Focus ST-R and is a perfect example of how a great production car inspires a competitive race car for enthusiasts."¹

How long before the new Ford Focus ST-R hits the tracks? Not long. The speed-daemon is slated to race in a variety of series across North American, starting in the very near future. Bayer Ford, located at 200 E Central Ave, Comanche, TX promises specifics as soon as they become available and invites you to stay tuned for more Ford news, coming soon. In the mean time, you can explore the new 2012 Ford Focus that helped inspire the development of the Focus ST-R simply by clicking here.

Source: ¹ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ford-racing-unveils-focus-st-r/