The 2016 Ford Focus RS is a revelation in the hot hatch market, a 345 horsepower all-wheel drive muscle machine with more horsepower than the Mustang EcoBoost and a plethora of high-tech performance features. While not carrying the same pedigree as its rear-drive sibling, Ford is still giving the Focus RS a proper behind-the-scenes documentary, with Part 1 now available for viewing.
Focus RS: Rebirth of an Icon begins with Ford’s performance guru Raj Nair and Gymkhana wunderkin Ken Block, both of which were integral to the development of the 2016 Focus RS.
The two start off the documentary by discussing the history of all-wheel drive performance Fords and the RS brand, which can trace its history back to the 1970s. While previous Focus RS have relied on front-drive setups, with 345 horsepower available from the 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine is just too much for a front-drive setup. All-wheel drive, however, not only puts it on par with competitor vehicles, but gives the Focus RS a tactical advantage even compared to rear-drive vehicles like the Mustang. Lots of grip, minimal slip.
Having Ken Block on hand, there’s naturally some test driving involved, but also a discussion about making the Focus RS help average drivers feel better about their skills. This includes the new “Drift Mode” that sends up to 70% of the horsepower to the rear wheels, though this video lacks Gymkhana levels of action and tire smoke. For now, at leas, as we assume there’s still plenty more action ahead in the subsequent chapters.
You can’t have a documentary about a car like the Focus RS without seeing what it’s capable of, right?