We asked Ford Performance engineering manager Tyrone Johnson at Geneva earlier whether a Fiesta RS was in the pipeline. Like a true PR whiz, he refused to answer outright, only saying that the current Fiesta ST "isn't the best it can be." Pressed further on the subject, Johnson also commented that a supposed Fiesta RS would also have to make good business sense. But judging by the smile on his face, we were pretty sure an even hotter Fiesta was secretly in the works.

And now that secret is apparently out, thanks to our intrepid spy photographers. What you're looking are the first shots of an early development Fiesta RS test mule. How do we know? Take a closer look and you'll see additional cooling components hiding behind the temporary grille, as well as tacked on fender flares that make way for a wider track. There are also additional body panels at the rear. Expect for the final production car to feature more aggressive bodywork and upgraded brakes and suspension. Power will likely come from the 1.6-liter EcoBoost tuned to around 250 horsepower. These spy shots also reveal the test mule driving alongside two, still camouflaged, Focus RS prototypes. If all goes to plan, a 2017 launch sounds realistic.