It's been only a week since the fourth-generation Ford Focus was unveiled, and the company is already testing a new version of the hatchback. Our paparazzi just spotted a camouflaged Focus on the Nurburgring track, and despite the thick wrap, it's pretty obvious that Ford isn't testing the standard model. But what is it?

Well, assuming Ford isn't planning to introduce a brand-new nameplate, we're looking at one of the upcoming performance versions of the Focus - either the ST or the RS. The mule is clearly fitted with sportier features on the outside, but how do we tell which model it is?

To be honest, the front fascia doesn't provide too many hints. The way the camo sticks to the bumper suggests that the air vents are very similar to the standard model. Same goes for the splitter, which isn't bigger than usual. The honeycomb mesh in the grille is also identical to the regular Focus. It's the side view that provides a bit of info, by ways of revised side skirts and a lowered ride height. Not enough for a conclusion, I know. So let's move to the back.

It's here where we can notice brand-new elements. The first one is the big spoiler atop the tailgate. This is definitely bigger than the standard Focus, and it appears to add quite a lot of downforce. We can also see new exhaust pipes in the apron. However, the bumper appears to be from the standard model. It's just the tailpipes that are no longer integrated into the lower body. There's no sign of a more aggressive diffuser though.

Due to the fact that this hatchback might be an early mule, it's difficult to tell whether it's the ST or the RS. But I'm tempted to say that we're looking at the upcoming Focus ST. Not only because the ST is not that extreme compared to the regular model, but also because the ST usually arrives before the RS. The latter is likely to break cover in 2019, while the ST will probably hit auto show floors by the end of 2018.

References

Here's a Preview of What the Ford Focus ST and Focus RS Might Look Like

Read our full review on the 2019 Ford Focus.

Read our full review on the 2017 Ford Focus RS.

Read our full review on the 2017 Ford Focus ST.

Read more Ford news.