A couple years ago, Ford introduced the Fiesta RS, and it immediately became one of the absolute best sporty, affordable, performance hatchbacks available.
So, when the automaker decided to introduce another in its RS line, the 2016 Focus, it was only natural that it caused a bit of a fuss.
The new Focus RS will offer enhanced styling (above) and a sport-tuned 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine promising in the neighborhood of 315 horsepower. Obviously, the engine relies on a turboboost for some of that horsepower, but that helps keep the engine smaller and the car lighter. Best of all, that engine will be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission — the proper gearbox for a true driver’s car. The suspension is also reenforced and tuned up for track performance.
Related: NYIAS 2015: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
All piled up, the Focus RS was a hit at NYIAS 2015, and the uninitiated might think that’s too much hype for what amounts to a large-ish, souped up hatchback. But, a pumped up hatchback remains one of the true joys of urban driving. The Fiesta RS was a blast because it was so quick, so nimble, yet so easy to drive. The Focus RS should be more powerful and even better balanced, making it a great option for drivers looking for a track toy they can also drive home.
And, since it’s a Ford, it’ll avoid the price tag of imports like the upscale Volkswagen Golf trims or anything from Alfa Romeo.
For now, we’ll have to wait to drive it and compare it to those cars. Meanwhile, Ford will unveil the price and release date on the Focus RS in the coming weeks.
