Ten Point Test
Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 88%
The Ford Focus RS is a landmark car. It redefines what is possible for a front-wheel drive car, and is undoubtedly one of the most accomplished hot hatches ever built.
But is it worthy of carrying the evocative RS badge? Stuart Milne went to find out.
1. Looks 10/10
Like a power lifter fed on a diet of steroids, the Ford Focus RS is an intimidating sight. Its deep front bumper barely contains the front-mounted intercooler and houses a pair of scowling foglamps. The bonnet features a pair of vents, like the iconic Escort and Sierra Cosworth models. Its flanks wear large vents and deep sideskirts that compliment the huge blistered wheelarches. The rear is equally imposing, with a large WRC-inspired wing and a deep rear bumper that houses a pair of snarling tailpipes. A bespoke set of 19-inch multispoke alloys are wrapped in sticky Continental rubber.
Some criticise the standard Focus for looking a little bland – the RS is anything but.
2. Looks inside 9/10
The interior is largely standard, so there’s a good level of fit and finish and you’ll find well laid out controls. Things get more interesting for hot hatch fans when it comes to the wonderful hip-hugging Recaro sports seats, thick RS-branded steering wheel, additional gauge pod at the top of the dash and silver gear knob. The only criticism is some of the silver plastics look a little low-rent compared to the rest of the cabin.
3. Practicality 7/10
Big boot, loads of space and good visability are all facets of the standard Ford Focus, and are carried over to the Focus RS. Where things get a little more compromised is in the rear; the three-door layout coupled with big front seats makes getting in tricky – and space is tight once you’re there. The Focus RS has a far wider turning circle – 12.2m compared to the standard car’s 10.6m – making it feel cumbersome in tight spots. A neat touch is Ford’s Easyfuel system, which makes it impossible to fill up with the wrong fuel.
4. Ride and Handling 10/10
Alongside performance, the Focus RS’ handling is its raison d’etre and represents the biggest leap forward for any hot hatch for many years. Big power through the front wheels usually results in torque steer which has a negative impact on handling. But the Focus RS employs a limited slip differential and Ford’s patented Revoknuckle – a clever suspension knuckle – that almost eliminates torque steer, although it is still evident. The result is a sensation, with the car able to accelerate straight and true in a way no other high-power front-driver can. The ride is pretty good too.
5. Performance 10/10
It’ll reach 62mph in less than six seconds, before hitting 163mph. That might not sound much more than the Focus ST’s benchmarks, but the RS feels incredibly muscular throughout the rev range. The turbocharged 2.5-litre five cylinder feels more like a 3-litre V6 with its silky power delivery, and at low speeds sounds like one too. Push the engine hard, and it reveals its true character as a snarling, popping beast.
6. Running Costs 7/10
Given its performance and relative rarity, the Ford Focus RS is well priced at a shade over £26,000; although that‘s around £4,000 more than the excellent Focus ST. Insurance group 19 will hurt, as will road tax with the car’s emissions of 225g/km, but with 12,500 mile service intervals, general maintenance shouldn’t cost a packet. You’ll need to budget for frequent tyre changes if you push it hard, and expect to see mpg figures in the mid-twenties – less than the official 30.5mpg average.
7. Reliability 8/10
The Focus has been around for a while now, and the numbers in which it sells would uncover common faults. The engine, although in a high state of tune is a proven Volvo unit, so faults should be few and far between.
8. Safety 9/10
The Focus scored a full five star rating in the EuroNCAP crash test programme, and the RS comes with driver, passenger and side curtain airbags, a collapsible steering column and pedals and a passenger airbag deactivation switch which is available on request.
9. Equipment 8/10
You’ll get the equipment you expect, but not an awful lot more. The Recaro sports seats are standard, as is air-con, a six-CD autochanger with a DAB radio, keyless entry and a start button and the kind of security system befitting such a car.
10. X-Factor 10/10
It’s an RS – and that alone will be reason for many buyers to choose one. But it also happens to be devastatingly quick on B-roads and a genuine joy to drive. Every trip to the shops will be a blast.
Key facts
Model tested: Ford Focus RS 2.5 3dr
On the road price: £26,100
Date tested: September 2009
Road tester: Stuart Milne
