2018 FORD FOCUS

Launched in 2016, the third-generation Focus RS represented a significant development of Ford's celebrated RS bloodline. Powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 345bhp, it combined a six-speed manual gearbox with Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive and Dynamic Torque Vectoring, providing the RS with a level of performance and capability considerably beyond that of the standard Focus.

Towards the end of Mk3 production, Ford introduced a number of limited-edition versions, including the distinctive Red Edition. Launched as a highly exclusive, limited-run final send-off for the acclaimed all-wheel-drive hyper-hatch in the UK market. Limited to strictly 300 units, the Red Edition stands as an instant modern classic alongside the standard RS Edition and the ultra-rare 50-unit Heritage Edition.

The Red Edition differentiates itself from the standard Mk3 Focus RS through distinct mechanical enhancements and unique aesthetic details. The defining performance upgrade for the Red Edition is the integration of a Quaife helical LSD on the front axle. By mechanically controlling the torque distributed to each front wheel, it eliminates power wastage through inside-wheel spin and this allows the driver to apply power significantly earlier when exiting tight corners. The mechanical front LSD works seamlessly with the standard rear-axle twin-clutch Ford Performance AWD system. Where the standard car relied heavily on electronic braking to control front-wheel slip, the Red Edition provides pure mechanical traction, resulting in sharper turn-in, reduced understeer, and higher mid-corner speeds. The Red Edition's selectable Drive & Damper Modes offer four distinct driving profiles (Normal, Sport, Track, and the famous Drift Mode) alongside two-stage adjustable dampers that stiffen by 40% in sportier configurations to eliminate body roll.

It retains the potent 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 350 PS (345 BHP) as standard paired to an engaging 6-speed manual gearbox enabling 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds om its way to 165mph.

Every car was finished in vibrant Race Red paintwork contrasted sharply by a Gloss Black painted roof, gloss black door mirrors, and a gloss black rear spoiler all set off by 19-inch black forged alloy wheels housing grey-finish Brembo brake calipers. The driver-focused cabin features Recaro part-leather shell bucket seats and a unique carbon fibre interior package covering the door grab handles, handbrake lever, and the triple-instrument binnacle gauges. Standard tech includes the SYNC3 navigation system, a rear-view camera, dual-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel.

This remarkable Focus RS Red Edition has remained in single ownership from new and, at the time of cataloguing, was indicating just nine (9) miles. Clearly acquired with preservation in mind, the car has effectively remained unused, with Ford factory protective plastic coverings still in place, offering a rare glimpse of how these cars appeared when delivered new. Our vendor confirms that every available factory option was selected when ordering the car, resulting in a particularly comprehensively specified example of this limited-production model. At just 9 miles from new, we imagine that this is one of, if not the lowest mileage examples in the country.

For enthusiasts and collectors of modern Ford Performance models, this represents an unusual opportunity to acquire one of the final Mk3 Focus RS derivatives in remarkably unused condition. With production limited to just 300 UK examples, the Red Edition has an established place within the modern RS story, and this particular car offers an intriguing proposition for the serious Ford collector.