2016 Ford Focus RS TESTDRIVENOW.COM FIRST LOOK

2016 Ford Focus RS FIRST LOOK

Posted on March 27, 2015 by Car Critic Steve Hammes

2016 Ford Focus RS FIRST LOOK

While American performance enthusiasts often pine over cars reserved exclusively for Europe, from time-to-time wishes are granted. Meet the all-new 2016 Ford Focus RS; a turbocharged, all-wheel drive hooligan baked with the most intense flavors Ford offers in a hot hatch.

And having already ripped up the Rallye Sport scene overseas for over a decade, American shoppers will soon be able to put one in their own garage. This 3^rd gen car features a specifically tuned version of the Mustang’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing more than 315 horsepower delivered with what Ford says is “stirring sound.” A performance all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring can divert up to 70% of the power to the rear wheels while driver selectable settings can tailor the experience, including an industry-first drift mode to help you achieve oversteer at the track. The 6-speed manual also includes launch control. Owners start with a set of 19” Focus RS-spec Michelins with track-made Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires available as an option. Recaro seats keep you tight as others gaze at the aggressively-styled Focus, available in 3 colors in addition to this Nitrous Blue. Look for it in limited numbers in the spring of 2016.