Ford is bringing the Focus RS to the United States for the first time as the automaker launches a new, high-performance version of the small car in markets worldwide.

CEO Mark Fields confirmed the welcome news at a press conference today, Autoblog.com reported.

The Focus RS, which will slot above the ST variant, was last sold in Europe in 2009. Powered by a four-cylinder engine, the ST produces 252 horsepower and is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

As for the new Focus RS, the upcoming variant could be powered by Ford's 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing between 325 and 350 horsepower. The buzz is that the new RS may get all-wheel drive.

Whatever ends up constituting the powertrain, the updated RS will continue a legacy dating back to 1968.

"The RS has a significant heritage and pedigree," said Ford product chief Raj Nair, as quoted by Autoblog.

The automaker has announced that all its sporty units will sit under the "Ford Performance" umbrella, which will hold Ford Racing, SVT and RS. Mustang chief engineer Dave Pericak will be heading Ford Performance.

"We're changing Ford's performance business," Nair said.

The Focus RS is expected to launch at next month's Detroit Auto Show, but Ford hasn't officially announced when it will debut. 

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