Orders for the new Ford Focus RS are at 1,500 in the UK without a single test drive being taken.

In the month before prices and specifications were announced at September’s Frankfurt Show, 500 deposits had been paid.

Since then Ford dealers have logged 1,000 further prospective buyers. Deliveries start in the spring.

 “These enthusiasts are taking great care in building their optimum specification,” said Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director.

“We expected those first in the queue, many of whom are owners of previous RS models, to be exacting about their requirements, and so it has proved, with many opting for motorsport-style Recaro shell front seats, 19-inch black forged alloy wheels, luxury pack, electric tilt/side sunroof and Ford SYNC2 navigation and sound system.”

The all-new Focus RS has a recommended on the road price of £28,940.