First look: XR5 comes alive

THE Blue Oval has used Sydney to unveil a hot turbocharged performance version of its Focus, to be called the XR5.

The XR5, which is essentially a rebadged version of the production Focus ST released at last month’s Frankfurt motor show, borrows its blown 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine from the Volvo S40 and pops it into a five-door Focus hatch.

The 166kW/320Nm machine is mated to a six-speed manual, while the car’s overall height has been dropped 25mm and the firmer riding suspension tuned for sportscar handling.

The brakes have also been upgraded with larger callipers and pads for beefier stopping power.

Visually, the XR5 gets a discrete bodykit comprising a honeycomb grille, deeply recessed foglights and discreet hatch-mounted rear spoiler.

The car rides on 18-inch alloys with low-profile high-performance tyres.

Although Ford has not finalised pricing, expect the XR5 to go on sale around May next year with a possible price point of around $35,000-$40,000.