It’s always nice when car companies listen to The People — the ones actually buying their products. And Ford has done precisely that, taking to enthusiast forums, Facebook, blogs, social media, following and paying attention to conversations to produce a limited-run Focus RS that finds new colour combos, differentiated interior and exterior styling, and above all, better performance with a new standard mechanical limited-slip differential.
Styling: Fan Input
Many of the styling add-ons were a direct result of user requests and suggestions online. Sporting a new gloss black roof and mirror caps, plus a rear spoiler in gloss black, this RS spec comes in either Race Red or that signature Nitrous Blue, rolling on standard 19-inch alloy wheels with blue RS centre caps.
Cabin: RS2 Package is Standard
Inside, this particular Focus RS gets the optional RS2 package as standard, which is a welcomed addition, including black leather-trimmed RECARO seats with Miko-Dinamica eco-friendly suede microfiber inserts, and RS logo, heated front seats with eight-way power driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, heated exterior mirrors and voice-activated navigation system.
Driving Dynamics: Better Handling
Aesthetic upgrades are great, but a limited-edition performance hatch like the Focus RS won’t go far without enhanced driving dynamics. The global Ford Performance team developed a standard mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential for the front axle that further improves Focus RS performance. This limited-edition Focus RS will more easily carry speed through a corner on the track, and allow for maximum acceleration on the way out.
Related – 2017 Ford Focus RS Review: The 350-hp Compact Hatchback
The engine is the same 2.3L EcoBoost producing 350 hp, but with this new limited-slip differential, drivers can better tap into the torque that hits each wheel of this RS-spec Focus. And, of course, there’s the Focus RS Drive Modes, including the Ford-first Drift Mode to handle track oversteer with more confidence.
Availability and Pricing: Late 2017
US enthusiasts will receive 1,000 units while Canada will get 500; All 1,500 units will hit dealerships in late 2017. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but we’ll update once we get more info.
2018 Focus RS Specs
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost Turbocharged Inline-4 |
| Power | 350 horsepower |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph | Approximately 4.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 165 mph |
| Suspension | Independent MacPherson Strut Front, Independent Control Blade Rear Suspension |
| Brakes | Brembo Front and Rear Disc Brakes |
| Wheels | 19-inch Forged Alloy Wheels |
| Tires | Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 |
| Fuel Economy | EPA-estimated 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Special Features | Limited-Edition Model, Drift Mode, RS2 Package, Heated Front Seats, Sony Audio System |
