A new Drive Mode lets you kick the ass out on this hot hatch.
Ford revealed today that the all-new Ford Focus RS (which will come to the U.S.) is the fastest Ford RS model ever. Gone is the torque steer that defined the previous models. In its place is an AWD system that will propel the RS from 0-62 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
The 2.3 liter EcoBoost four cylinder produces a punchy 345 bhp and 325 ft.-lbs. of torque, which is more than the EcoBoost Mustang. And here's something cool: the engine will temporarily make 347 ft.-lbs. of torque under hard acceleration due to transient overboost. Sounds like a lovely invitation to us.
The RS comes with four Drive Modes (Normal, Sport, Track) but the last one is of interest to us: Drift Mode. In this mode, the driver can control oversteer drifts, something that was obviously impossible in the previous model.
Costing $36,605, the RS is cheaper than the Volkswagen Golf R, and it's a hot hatch that behaves like a rear-drive sports car. It's also one of the last cars to be offered in manual-only. These are compelling arguments that just might tip the scales in the RS's favor.
Source: Road and Track
