2017 Ford Focus RS

The first two generations of the Ford Focus RS never set foot in the US. However, the automaker is planning to offer the 2017 version to all over the world. This model gives an opportunity to Ford Focus enthusiasts in the US to experience a high-performance hatch that feels like a real sports car.

The hatch which is already popular with the masses will come handsomely equipped and with more power. If you want a hatch, you should probably hold your horses and wait for the 2017 Ford Focus RS to hit the dealer showrooms. This is a hatchback like no other.

2017 Ford Focus RS Exterior

The 5-door hatchback looks ready to hit the track any time. At the front, it features a huge trapezoid-shaped grille flanked by Bixenon headlights on each side and a front splitter that stretch far down.

It also features two large air intakes on each side of the small front bumper. The bumper also houses vertically mounted fog lights which mimic the Kia Pro’Ceed. On the sides, the wheel arches have been widened to accommodate its 19-ich alloy wheels which are exclusive to the vehicle. The wheels are wrapped with Michelin tires.

The back end features a huge aerodynamic diffuser which enhances its down-force and thus reduces its drag. The diffuser is flanked by twin exhaust tips on each side. To complete the look is a rear roof spoiler.

2017 Ford Focus RS Interior

The interior is all sporty with numerous racing features. To start with, the hatchback which accommodates five passengers features Recaro sports seats. However, Buyers in Asia and Europe will have an option for the unique RS Recaro shell seats which are wrapped with authentic microfiber fabric panels.

The vehicle also features a flat-bottomed steering wheel and numerous RS badges in the cabin. Other features include alloy sports pedals and an extra instruments cluster mounted on top of the center console which displays oil temperature, oil pressure and boost pressure.

SYNC connectivity is offered as standard. This gives access to sat-nav, Smartphones, audio system and climate control via voice commands or through an 8-inch touch-screen. With the SYNC, the hatchback can even direct you to the closest race track.

Engine Specs and Performance

Under the hood, the 2017 Ford Focus will only feature a single drive-train. The unit will be similar to the EcoBoost engine featured in the Mustang. It will be a 2.3 L, 4-cylinder engine churning 350 hp and 324 lb-ft of torque.

The engine will be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox which sends power to all wheels. It has a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg on combined drives. The engine also features a torque-vectoring AWD system which enables it to run from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds towards a top speed of 165 mph. When well equipped, it can tow as much as 3,234 lbs.

Price and release date

The 2017 Ford Focus will arrive at dealer showrooms in the spring of 2016. The hatchback will have a starting price of $ 36,605. This figure includes $ 875 destination charge.

To many enthusiasts and rally wannabes, the fair price is welcoming news for a car which was expected to start at around cost as much as $ 45,000 because of its high-performance character.

Competition

Its fiercest rivals will be the Subaru WRX STI, Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R.