After numerous teasers and leaked photos, here’s your first official look at the all-new, hot out of the oven 2016 Ford Focus RS. The magnificent hot hatch has stepped up its game in all areas, not just raw power as is the case with most of its rivals.

Focus RS has always been the most powerful hot hatch among its contemporaries. The latest generation, however, may not be able to claim that, thanks to power-crazed Germans who only recently decided they want to play in this segment. But it has something else going for it: it’s become a lot smarter.

The 2016 Ford Focus RS is powered by 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine they use in the new Mustang. Despite earlier reports that said Ford may de-tune the engine for use in the Focus, they’ve actually tuned it up a bit! The Focus RS packs a full 320 horsepower, which is a lot in a hatchback. Which is why it comes with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.

Now, before you scoff at the new Ford Focus RS arguing that an AWD hot hatch is not fun to drive, you should know that it’s a performance-oriented system with heavy rear bias. This car is practically rear-wheel-drive. What’s more, Ken Block has been the main consultant on the development of the new Focus RS, and that guys knows a thing or two about driving fun.

In short then, the 2016 Ford Focus RS is another brilliant effort by the Blue Oval. We are not completely convinced about the looks, but then again, nobody ever expects an RS Ford to be a beauty queen. Appearance is not what there cars are about. It’s all about the substance.

Detailed specs of the new Focus RS will be revealed in time for the car’s world debut at the Geneva Motor Show.