Focus RS

Make
Ford
Segment
Hatchback

Think the Ford Focus ST is awesome? It is, but the Focus RS is even better, a fact we make crystal clear in our latest CarBuzz unboxing review. But first things first, it's entirely wrong to assume the Focus RS is nothing more than an all-wheel drive version of the ST. Gearheads are fully aware of that, but we want to clarify once and for all for everyone else that the Focus RS is its own kingdom and it's fully prepared to defend its territory from the likes of the VW Golf R.

Powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four banger with a total of 350 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, you'll see further proof of Ford's commitment to building the best hot hatch on the planet by offering only one gearbox, a six-speed manual. No fancy schmancy automatics or dual-clutches needed.

So why is the Focus RS AWD? All of that torque can't only go to the front wheels. Want to master drifting without killing yourself? Ford developed a Drift Mode specifically for that purpose. And some say the days of having fun behind the wheel are dead. But perhaps one of the best things about the Focus RS is its price tag. Try a base price of $35,900. For the record, the also AWD VW Golf R has a nearly identical dollar amount, but the Focus RS is what we'd like to see in our garage. Special thanks to Future Ford of Sacramento for letting us film the car.