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Ford Heats Up The Hot Hatch Game At SEMA 2017

Posted By Steve Turner On In News | Comments Disabled

As fall arrives the aftermarket action heats up in Las Vegas. In just over a fortnight, cars, trucks, parts, and more will fill the Las Vegas Convention Center as the SEMA show descends on Sin City. As expected, Ford is set to bring an impressive display to the main hall and one highlight of the display is a pack of project cars. We now know that four of those magnificent machines are three 2017 Focus RS and one 2017 Focus ST.

Part of over 50 vehicles Ford will have on display at the massive show, these four hot hatches mark the first official announcements of Ford-endorsed project vehicles for this year’s show. In the coming weeks we can expect to see more previews of these modded machines, but if the quartet of Focus are any indication, it looks to be another good year for Blue Oval machinery.

Blood Type Racing 2017 Focus ST

While the Focus RS gets all the headlines, its cousin the Focus ST is quite the performance value and the crew at Blood Type Racing showed just what is possible from this all-wheel-drive hot hatch.

“This Focus ST concept combines lifestyle elements of moving images with motorsports to make a vehicle for the modern enthusiast. The exterior is all royalty, from the Midnight Purple paint to the wide body fender flares and rear hatch wing,” says Ford. “The ST boasts a unique roof-mounted drone helipad, adding functionality to curb appeal. A Full Race Turbo kit means turbo lag is non-existent with quick response and increased engine output. Ford Performance accessories including exhaust, short throw shifter, and illuminated door sill plates making this Focus ST ready for prime time.”

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Pennzoil/Tjin Edition/UTI 2017 Ford Focus RS

It is common to see one aftermarket company build a project for SEMA, but this Focus RS is the result of a triumvirate of players — Pennzoil, Tjin Edition, and Universal Technical Institute — joining forces to push the limits of the RS platform.

“Fast and fearless, this Focus RS is ready for action thanks to performance upgrades including Full Race intercooler, piping and intake and Ford Performance exhaust,” says Ford. “The exterior features Axalta paint in Pennzoil yellow with Ford Performance interior carbon fiber features for a sleek and lightweight cabin. Wheels, tires, brakes and suspension have been upgraded for increased feedback and sharper steering response.”

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Rally Innovations 2017 Focus RS

With a rich history in rallying, the Focus RS is a natural for a rally-themed build, so it’s no surprise Rally Innovations consulted its pace notes in developing this Focus RS for SEMA.

“A balance of capable performance and aggressive appearance, this Focus RS Rally Revival pays tribute to celebrated rally drivers over the years. An RS-R coilover suspension improves ride quality, performance, and comfort while reducing excessive vibrations from every day driving, as well as minimizing noises from suspension movements,” Ford says. “Added Ford Performance short-throw shifter provides a more direct and connected feel, giving better feedback while driving whether you’re cruising local streets or pushing the limits on the track.”

 

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VMP Performance 2017 Focus RS

An intriguing entry in the Ford hot hatch lineup for SEMA is the TriAthlete built by VMP Performance. A company best known for hot Mustangs and F-150s put together a decidedly aggressive RS that is built to perform in any venue.

“At the drag strip, the road course or on America’s twisty backroads, this Ford Focus RS smokes the competition in true Olympic triathlete style,” says Ford. “Performance suspension and powertrain upgrades include a dual port blow-off valve which helps vent the air-intake reducing turbo lag and eliminating cavitation. A sinister matte-black finish with custom airbrush art and lightweight carbon fiber bits combine for an RS with a street stalker exterior and competitive attitude.”

 

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As we mentioned, these four Focus projects are just the beginning of the SEMA previews from Ford, so stay tuned for the first word on all the cool Ford vehicles set to debut in Las Vegas and for full coverage from the show floor.