FORD is winding down the production of the iconic high-performance Focus RS but is to produce just 300 RS Red Edition specials to mark the occasion.

In addition to its Race Red exterior, the Red Edition features grey brake callipers behind black-cast alloy wheels and the RS Edition's trademark contrasting black roof, door mirrors and rear spoiler.

It is available now through Ford dealerships, priced at £36,295 with production starting in February.

The limited edition model features a front mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential, providing even more traction and driving appeal for performance driving enthusiasts.

By controlling the torque delivered to each front wheel, the Focus RS Edition's Quaife LSD enables drivers to exploit the 350bhp delivered by its 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine in high-performance driving situations even more, and integrates with Focus RS driving technologies delivered as standard.

Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain, said: "The Focus RS Edition represents accessible performance at its finest. As RS production nears its end, we wanted to celebrate with a limited run of cars for those who want to stand out as an RS fan."

The Focus RS Edition has been developed by Ford Performance engineers and evaluated at locations across the globe to enhance the high-performance hatchback's outstanding traction and responsiveness.

The Focus RS Edition delivers drive modes that include the industry-first drift mode for controlled oversteer drifts under circuit conditions and launch control for performance off the start-line - accelerating from 0-62mph in just 4.7sec.

Other standard equipment includes black cast 19-inch alloy wheels, Brembo four-piston callipers, partial leather Recaro shell seats, carbon fibre interior trim parts (auxiliary dials bezel, door handles and handbrake lever), privacy glass, rear parking sensors, electric folding mirrors, cruise control with speed limiter, heated steering wheel and active city stop.