Martin rates new 'aggressive' Focus

The Focus RS WRC03 was revealed at the team's base in Cumbria on Wednesday. With aggressive styling, large front and rear bumpers and a large 'cheese grater' rear wing, the new Focus certainly looks the part. And after completing two further days of testing in Spain last week, Martin thinks the car has got the oomph as well as the looks.

"This car can win in New Zealand, Finland, on asphalt, on gravel," he told AUTOSPORT magazine. "It will suit every kind of rally."

While Martin thinks the car has got what it takes, he admits his limited experience of the fast gravel rally could hamper the Focus' bid for glory straight out of the box.

"Obviously with a new car we have to be prepared for some reliability problems," explained the Estonian. "We know before we go to New Zealand that it will be a miracle if we get a trouble-free run.

"The car is capable of winning the next round, but maybe it will be a little more difficult for me. I don't have very much experience of Rally New Zealand."