Skip advert
Advertisement

Ford Focus RS upgraded with new ‘Option Pack’

New package brings mechanical LSD plus matte black styling add-ons to the Ford Focus RS hot hatch

The Focus RS is the one of the best fast Fords we've had the privilege of driving, offering a massive turn of pace while still being fun and adjustable. It’s remained unchanged since launch in 2016, but now Ford has given the RS an upgrade in the form of a new option pack.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Across the pond in the USA, these changes come on a special Limited Edition model but in the UK you can specify them on any new Focus RS with the imaginatively named ‘Option Pack’. The biggest and most exciting change for most potential owners is the addition of a Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential between the front wheels.

Redirecting power away from a wheel when it starts spinning, the LSD should make the RS even more responsive in the corners, and able to carry more speed on fast bends. It mates with the existing AWD system and torque vectoring to produce what should be ferocious pace through the twisty stuff.

The new diff is the only mechanical change that comes with the Option Pack, but Ford has sweetened the deal with a styling update. The RS Option Pack comes as standard with matte black detailing on the roof, mirror caps and rear spoiler – contrasting nicely with the standard Nitrous Blue paint.

> Ford Focus RS review

Also standard are black 19-inch alloys with RS centre caps, RS blue Brembo brake calipers and matching blue leather detailing on the sports seats inside. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Ford Focus RS (Mk3, 2016 - 2018) review – the last proper fast Ford?
Ford Focus RS
In-depth reviews

Ford Focus RS (Mk3, 2016 - 2018) review – the last proper fast Ford?

The Mk3 Focus RS looks like it’ll be Ford’s last RS, certainly with petrol-only power, for a while if not ever. Did the legendary badge go out on a hi…
18 Aug 2026
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Can electric beat petrol? Alpine A290 meets Mazda MX-5 – car pictures of the week
Mazda MX-5 v Alpine A290
Features

Can electric beat petrol? Alpine A290 meets Mazda MX-5 – car pictures of the week

Alpine’s A290 is under consideration by evo contributor Peter Tomalin as a replacement for his MX-5. A comparison is in order…
19 Sep 2026
Polestar 3 review – electric SUV updated to face the BMW iX3
Polestar 3
In-depth reviews

Polestar 3 review – electric SUV updated to face the BMW iX3

Polestar’s stylish electric SUV has big competition now from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, so an update was in order
18 Sep 2026
The Ferrari Luce reminds me of a £2k Peugeot, but then I am just a man with a Biro
Ferrari Luce Le Mans
Opinion

The Ferrari Luce reminds me of a £2k Peugeot, but then I am just a man with a Biro

We’re all armchair experts in car design, but in reality it requires real skill, says Porter
18 Sep 2026