The Ford Focus III RS, specifically the 2.3 EcoBoost AWD variant produced from 2016 to 2018, represents the pinnacle of performance for the third-generation Focus hatchback. Positioned as the flagship model, it built upon the foundation of the facelifted Focus III (introduced in 2014) and delivered a significant leap in power and handling compared to other trims like the Titanium or ST models. This high-performance variant was primarily aimed at the enthusiast market, offering a compelling alternative to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R and the Subaru WRX. The RS was never officially sold in the United States during this generation, making it a sought-after import for American enthusiasts.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Hatchback (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | RS 2.3 EcoBoost (350 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 266 km/h (165.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 154.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YVDB, YVDA |
| Engine displacement | 2261 cm3 (137.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.6 mm (3.45 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1524 kg (3359.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 501 kg (1104.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1045 l (36.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4390 mm (172.83 in.) |
| Width | 1823 mm (71.77 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2010 mm (79.13 in.) |
| Height | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2647 mm (104.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Focus RS is the 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated as YVDB or YVDA depending on minor variations. This engine is a heavily modified version of the unit found in the Mustang EcoBoost, but with significant upgrades to handle the increased power output. Key features include a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and a revised cylinder head with improved cooling. The engine produces 350 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque between 2000 and 4500 rpm. The engine’s robust bottom end was crucial for handling the increased stress. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle.
Power is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Unlike many all-wheel-drive systems that primarily focus on traction, the Focus RS utilizes a sophisticated torque vectoring system developed with BorgWarner. This system employs two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches on either side of the rear differential, allowing up to 100% of the engine’s torque to be sent to either rear wheel. This dramatically improves cornering agility and allows for a degree of controlled oversteer.
Driving Characteristics
The Focus RS delivers a thrilling driving experience. The combination of the powerful EcoBoost engine, the precise six-speed manual transmission, and the advanced torque vectoring system results in exceptional grip and responsiveness. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.5 seconds, and the car feels significantly faster in real-world driving. The torque vectoring system allows the car to rotate into corners with remarkable precision, making it feel much more nimble than its weight suggests. Compared to the standard Focus or even the ST model, the RS offers a much firmer ride and more direct steering feel. While the manual transmission is engaging, it can be slightly notchy at times. The gear ratios are well-suited for performance driving, providing strong acceleration in all gears.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Focus RS came generously equipped, even by performance car standards. Standard features included Recaro sport seats, a unique RS body kit (including a large rear wing and aggressive front fascia), and a performance-tuned suspension. Interior appointments featured a mix of leather and suede upholstery, along with RS-specific badging. Optional extras included a Sony premium sound system, navigation, and various exterior color options. The interior, while sporty, retained the basic layout of the standard Focus III, but with a more focused and driver-oriented design.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus RS features a specially tuned chassis designed to handle the increased power and performance. The suspension utilizes stiffer springs and dampers compared to other Focus models, along with thicker stabilizer bars. The car rides approximately 38mm lower than the standard Focus. Braking duties are handled by Brembo brakes with ventilated discs at all four corners, providing excellent stopping power and fade resistance. The steering is a quick-ratio electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Focus RS was widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional performance and handling. Critics lauded the effectiveness of the torque vectoring system and the engaging driving experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers of this type of vehicle, was reasonable at around 30.5 US mpg combined. Compared to the Focus ST, the RS offered a significant increase in power and a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The Golf R was often seen as the RS’s closest competitor, offering a more refined driving experience but arguably less raw excitement. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and cooling system.
Legacy
The 2016-2018 Ford Focus RS has quickly become a modern classic. Its combination of performance, handling, and practicality has made it a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. The EcoBoost engine, while powerful, is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The torque vectoring system, however, can be expensive to repair if it fails. The Focus RS represents a high point in Ford’s performance car history and remains a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and engaging driving experience.
