I got one 4 months ago and I just dont think theres a better bang for your buck out there. Its so much fun, its quick, it corners, it looks amazing and everytime I go to the mountains to snowboard I get to meet up with the 2 other guys that drive there RS up almost every weekend.
I also was heavily debating between the Golf R and the Focus RS. The Golf R is a gorgeous looking car. Simple looking, but very elegant. The RS of course is a lot more in your face and more bold styling. I ended up buying the Focus RS in the nitrous blue color. After test driving it, it was absolutely intoxicating. It has surgically precise handling and the connection between driver and driveline is stunning. Even though the blue is a very loud and bold color, I had to go with it. It's absolutely gorgeous, especially in the sunlight. It has a deep metallic glint. I'm still in love with the Golf R however.
I test drove the focus RS and I like it. I will say up front I am not a big ford fan. I flipped back and forth on the Rs and the Golf R did a lot of research and end up with the Golf R. I don't regret it but I don't blame any one that end up with the RS. What push me to get the golf is the head gasket issue that ford had with the car but at the time all i could find and read about it was the engine was blowing up and do the issue of me pushing the car everyday getting on and off the high way and autocrossing and drag racing and wanting to do track also just really liking sleepers also as my only car the thought of a blown engine tuned me off from it.
As a 5 year RS owner with 89k miles on it, I say: I actually have always preferred the styling of the Golf R. It just looks... Nice. It's not showy, but it also doesn't look slow, it's just clean. I like the nitrous blue color, but the RS looks a little messy otherwise. Engine note, I don't think I have a preference... Most of the induction noise you hear in the RS in the video is recorded audio being played through the speakers. I.e., it's not even a mic under the hood enhancing the sound for the occupants, it's *literally* recorded audio synced with the engine. I unplugged the box that does that (it's in the trunk) within the first month of having it, and while now it doesn't sound as exciting, at least what I'm hearing is the *real* engine. Not sure if the Golf R has anything like that, but IMO it was a cheap and ill-conceived gimmick with the RS. I guess I'm biased on the NVH with the RS because I came from an AP1 S2000, which was *much* bouncier and louder, so the RS still feels super comfortable to me 😂 I've taken it across the country a couple of times, best road trip car I've ever had. Especially now with 18" wheels and Pilot AS4s as my summer tire (it rains a lot here), takes the edge off and makes the ride quieter, but it still has *plenty* of grip... And it's more predictable at the limit than with the stock 19s and Michelin PSS tires, *especially* in the rain. The interior doesn't bother me... Again, coming from an early S2000 with 250k miles on it, way more comfortable and well-equipped. The only real deal breaker for me with the Golf R was the lack of playfulness... I like to kick the back end around and go hard at it in the RS on gravel and dirt roads, and it feels *fantastic*. If you try to go 10/10ths in the Golf R it's like it wants you to calm down and take it down a couple of notches... It definitely prefers being driven at 8/10ths. That's also just in Sport mode in the RS... People think you need to be in Drift mode, but Drift mode is just another gimmick that isn't very useful. It'll perform a much better slide in Sport mode with ESC turned fully off. As far as overheating the rear diff... 🤷♂️ I've never had it happen, and the only time I've *seen* it happen was when someone was doing donuts back and forth over and over on hot, dry pavement with sticky PSS tires. If you're driving for speed, keeping it composed and only occasionally hanging the tail in a good corner, it'll never happen to you.
I would take the engine from the R the interior from the R the looks of the R and I would take the awd drive system from the RS but would get rid of drift mode and the shifter from the RS.
I'm a big VW guy but I would choose the RS from a performance viewpoint. But the interiors of VW is always something really special compared to other entry level luxury vehicles.
Fantastic, honest review! 10 years ago, I think I'd take the Focus. But I'm leaning more toward the Golf R because I want the comfort, smoother ride and those leather seats. I'm in my 40's and currently own an s2000 and while I still want to have fun when I drive, frankly, I'm kinda tired of the bumpy, tight ride. I think the Golf R is the best for me.
since i already have 2 track cars the last thing i need is another track car. if i get a more sporty car for the street it will be a golf r or tt rs. either way im going to take it straight to apr. ive bought 3 cars in the last year and buying a rat rod truck very soon. so sadly my financial situation will play a big part on that decision. i want the tt rs but i have a feeling it will be 75k-80k plus apr another 10k-15k. golf r is 40k with another 10k-15k for apr. 55k on the high vs 95k on the high. thats a huge difference.
I tested both of these cars as I wanted a 4WD hatch that I could take skiing and use as a semi daily driver but that would be a blast to drive. I also own a BMW 1M Coupe which is just a plain awesome car to drive and wanted something comparable. ultimately I found the RS a much more involving drive than the Golf. yes the interior of the Golf is nicer but the Ford is quite acceptable. Ford has put its money into the suspension, the brakes and the Powerplant and it shows. I also struggle with the blandness of the Golf's looks though that is subjective. I put my money down on the RS and I bloody love it!
Respectfully put and I couldn't agree more. I find my RS' interior to be fine acceptable and even like it. They're both good cars. I don't like the break-vectoring system as much.
@@fightingcarrot if you're still looking, try not to get a 2016 RS as opposed to a 2017 or 2018. If you do, make sure that the head gasket has been swapped out. Other than that, it's a pretty basic trade from comfort to performance. The drive is really firm, but the awd inspires a lot of confidence, which I didn't really find in the golf. If you race or like to drive spiritedly, there are a couple of hangups that I had. One is that it you heel-toe downshift, you'll find that you might need to adjust how you do it, because the throttle is uncomfortably far below the brake. Also the drift mode isn't as great as they advertise, and doesn't really do anything unless you turn off all traction control Edit: also, and I know the video mentions this, the turning circle is probably the worst thing I've experienced in a car. You won't be able to make u-turns unless you have three lanes or are willing to do three point turns
Great comparison video. I am admittedly a Golf R fanboy since I own one, but I generally agree with everything you said. The Focus RS is a sharper performer in nearly every way. The thing that made me choose the Golf R over the RS is the combination of comfort, refinement, and everyday manners in a car that I drive to work everyday, while still being stupidly fast when I want it to be. Either way, great video and channel.
+Gregory Lopes thanks! You are right. The R is the MUCH more compliant daily driver. And still tons of fun. Also I think I've said it before but the classy/ functional German interior is just a really nice place to be.
E46 Reviews with T.H. absolutely. The German refinement was hard to pass up. However, if I was in a situation where one of these cars would only be my weekend or fun car, the Focus RS would have been the right choice, hands down.
I agree totally with you. I'm a Golf R fan but after looking at this video, I'm wondering did I make the right choice? This is a great car though. I'm just not a huge Ford fan.
16 golf r stage 2 eurodyne 3" catted dp, cts turbo intake, cts bov with stage 4 6 puck ceramic clutch on vwr springs. Also just did the exhaust with res delete and a magnaflow mufflers, can hear backfires when giving her and letting off gas. Planning to do intercooler and water meth injection in the spring. I personally think the car is a blast after tuned.
Great video! Thank you! Full disclosure: I own a 2017 VW Golf R 6MT. That said, I did go back and forth between the R and the RS. But after awhile, knowing what I want and need, I went for the R. Haven't looked back since and love the car. That said, with regards to your comment about the 292hp numbers... I believe the German cars typically underrate the engine output. From what I've heard, they provide the minimal output horsepower if a car was running on top of a mountain on a super hot day or something. So the theory is, at its worst condition, the engine can produce at minimum, 292hp. In actuality, at peak condition, it may produce over 300. Same goes for Audi, Porsche, BMW etc... Anyways, 292 v. 350 are significant differences, but in my opinion, the most important difference between these two are the AWD system as far as performance is concerned. Personally, I prefer the understated look of the R, the upscale interior, and the badge and the history that go along with it. Plus, I got the new R for $37.5k! I've heard that Ford dealerships were selling over the sticker price for the RS. The price difference was a big factor for me too.
+Dave Paek actually the golf has a round 300 "ps" which is the German horsepower equivalent. (I was just making a joke to illustrate how the golf takes itself seriously. ) I think the golf is the better overall car so if you don't track regularly you made the right choice! Don't forget to watch my track test of these two!
With a kid on the way, don't think I'll be going to the track that much, which is another reason why I opted for this. Also, I'm a bit of a VW fan boy... also own a 2016 Golf SportWagen. My buddy bought the RS and absolutely loves it. In all honesty, I think both cars serve two separate purposes but both are great cars. Thanks again for the video, great production.
Add me to the list of guys who'd rather have the Golf R. I have driven both now and I'd like to own a Golf R. I'd like to borrow the Focus RS. If I was solely doing a backroad blast it'd be the other way around.
Not with all the coolant leaks they have & overheating AWD system in the snow... etc etc. Buy the golf R, Tune it its still cheaper then the Ford and now its faster & still more reliable
K9 JSB - until they live with one for a week and immediately regret it the moment they realize they need a monthly visit to the chiropractor. The over dampened RS is too rough for daily driving
It's two different cars, if you want a sleeper and to look like every other tom, dick and harry get a Golf R, If you want to stand out a bit and want a car that makes no excuse for what it is get an RS, I'd rather have an RS because every man and his dog have a Golf R
You're jumping around inside the car the whole video. Funny the RS was mentioned as a good car for everyday use, because that's exactly the main difference to the R. Track day vs Everyday. I'm tempted to R due to much easier everyday performance, plus the DSG7 is great.
I came here because I’m thinking about the golf R and my mind hasn’t been changed. I’d love to drive the focus rs but as my only vehicle I want a German interior and decent ride quality. There was a point in my life where I would have preferred the focus’s styling but I think by the time most people can afford one of these cars their tastes/ priorities change.
Absolutely agree. Having owned a Golf R and driven students’ Focus RSes on track and around town, the former is a much better all-around car. The Focus is more like the Civic Type R (had one of those as a shop car): raucous and rowdy but too gaudy and punishing for me to live with everyday. I have several friends - track-day and racing buddies - who have also driven both and bought a Golf R. They don’t appeal to the same consumer.
Good review...I drove the Golf R DSG a month ago and it is every bit as serious and mature as you make it out to be. It feels like a daily driver with 292~ HP and AWD. By the way the Focus RS has brake based torque vectoring on the front wheels.
These where also my two choices.....I also bought the RS and i'm so glad i did. Very rare to see them around and responds so good to mods and the fun factor is off the charts for the money. Now I have 440bhp and 412 torque on a 91 tune with Water/Meth on the way and more mods in my garage 500bhp will be here soon!
The focus rs and the subari sti are meant to be boy racer cars; feel faster (due to the not as refined chassy), racer boy seats, etc. The interiors suck and everyday driving will be horrendous. You say NOW that the RS is more fun to drive and sure many people will agree, but back to your point as a family/one time purchase car..... Golf R is a better refined car that's not only cheaper but has the best interior for its class, can be very very easily and reliably be tuned to get those so great hp numbers that you desperately want on paper, and the wife can drive it without complaining.
Bladeserpent, doesn’t matter how much hp u‘ll have in ur golf r if it can’t handle worth a damn. I‘d choose a 150hp perfect handling car over 300hp understeering crap any day.
To be honest, 'boy racer' is so overused now it's basically just something boomers say to make themselves feel like there's any mature reason to buy a 300hp+ car. There isn't, you're buying a fancy toy because you like when it goes vroom, don't try to act like having racing seats or a spoiler is the real immature part 😂
Excellent review as always T. H.! Your conclusion is spot on. They are both great cars. And are both very fun to drive. The Golf is a little better for daily driving and all the tasks it demands. But just by a little bit. The Ford is way more fun to drive and is way quicker on a track when pushed to its limits. People are quick to comment how the Ford is quicker but somehow that is negated by the fact that the diff heats up and causes issues. Good luck finding a reasonably priced sports car that can do consistent hot laps without something giving issue. Such as breaks, engine temps, etc.... I personally think the extra money on the price tag the Ford is worth it in this scenario.
Thanks! And totally agree there are always trade offs for real performance. I watched an engineering special on //Drive channel and the engineer talked about how making power in a race car is easy... What matters is how LONG you want to have that power FOR in a race. I.e. Endurance racing requires power sacrifices for temperature longevity. So the Focus is meant to do a decent number of fantastic hot laps, then it will let you know when you have done too much. #worthit
great review, however I know what I'd rather be driving 3 months later.... that Ford focus will get old very quick...it may have more Street Creed but it certainly doesn't have as much class as the Golf R
Benjay1975 your joking right ! the Ford focus rs is a legend in the car world. I'm currently in a year waiting list to get mine. the price probably won't drop. and I think it looks more classy then that boring golf that everyone has got
salfordmike focus rs There is nothing classy about a Focus RS. It's a boy racer style car and there is nothing wrong with that. The Golf R is the classy one.
Benjay1975 are you insane? You could never call Focus RS "classy". Have you even seen the interior which looks 10 years old not to mention the boy racer style which won't suit everyone.
This choice is easy: I don’t want engine that will self-destruct purely due to their manufacturer’s engineering negligence. On second thought this choice is harder than anticipated.
In my experience, the two cars fill different niches. The Golf R is a fun hot-hatch for people who want a more mature, well-appointed car that is fast, lively, and practical but understated. I’ve had one, and so have several of my friends. We’re all in our mid- to late-40s and have other track-day or race cars. So I didn’t contemplate the Golf R as a track car. The Focus RS (I’ve driven two, on track and around town) is a younger man’s car, sharp, very fast, and more thrilling, but at the cost of “take your wife to dinner” refinement. It better suits someone who doesn’t have another track/race car and will trade refinement for excitement and 10/10ths capability. I personally prefer the Golf R, a fantastic daily driver that doesn’t remind me constantly that it would rather be at the track.
Agreed. I'm 55 and went for a 2019 Golf R. I drove the Golf and the RS back to back, and the RS felt like a Pikey's car. Way too showy and tacky. I like the quiet class of the Golf, but that in an instant it becomes a hit man in a suit when you want to boot it. Is the Focus faster and more hardcore ? Yes. Is the Golf a better all rounder? Yes. Remember the Top Gear coolness test? If you were picking up Kristin Scott Thomas to take her out for dinner, would she get in your car? I think the Golf she would be happy to ride in. The Focus she'd run away from.
+Ganaria Gente I've posted a few things in the past. I don't like to just constantly self promote on Reddit though. Not what reddit is for. If YOU want to post the channel though... Lol
I test drove the R and the RS and STI all back to back, like literally, I went from one dealership to the other. The R did not put a smile on my face, the STI was meh, and the RS was the one that put a smile on my face. I turned off the traction control on the R but it couldn’t be turned off. The RS just boomed more bad-ass power and I could turn off traction control and find that edge myself. I got the 2018 RS and absolutely love it. I had also researched that maintenance would be more costly, lengthier waits for parts with the R and less with the RS. Yup, the RS won for me and 37k miles later, I still absolutely love it. It’s been 100% reliable. It’s held it’s value well too
Harsh ride, Fisher-Price interior, costs more than the R? No thanks. I want a car I can live with on a daily basis. Besides, if I want more performance, I'll get an APR tune and it'll still cost less than the RS.
I like how ford fixed that issue over two years ago but people still keep attacking it. And it wasn't a headgasket failure. It had the wrong headgasket, causing it to have a failure.
Personally I faced this decision recently as well. I ended up thinking exactly what you concluded. I had a ST, and wanted something with AWD. I was considering the Gold R heavily. But after test driving one I just didn't feel the connection to the car. So i ponied up and preordered an RS. Just took delivery of it last week and I do not regret my decision at all. Completely agree though that the ride and turning radius are horrid. But totally worth it when zipping down a backroad! Thanks for the review! Keep it up.
Yes, I daily drive the RS. Its very similar to daily driving a STI in terms of suspension but with a bit better gas mileage. I don't have any issues driving it for my work commute or anything of the sort. In fact i just took it on a 1100 mile round trip with my 6 year old kid and she didn't mind at all either. Falls short in some ways for sure. Size of the gas tank and suspension is certainly a bit firm. But I don't have any regrets.
It may age well but it'll be worth fuck all in about 2 years time and it'll be even MORE common than it already is. A car for sheep, if you want something like that you'd get an A45
@@skepta5499 Hardly a car for sheep just because it's not the one you prefer we aren't all edgy fan boys who are happy with sub par comfort in day to day driving which is what these cars are. You buy these as do it all cars and the golf is the better all rounder. Yes the focus is more fun and may make a better 2nd car/toy but if that was my aim I wouldn't be looking at either of these cars.
Didn't say that was the reason that it's a car for sheep. They literally look fuck all different to any other golf, barring the exhaust tips. It look's boring and everyone has one. Be different.
Your everyday driver is the R,with a wicked side, but the bonkers RS looks a little more fun to drive I have to side with the R as my days of being a street racer are over.
No focus has had a cracked engine block, there was a casting issue on a run of 60 cars with a bolt hole manufactured incomplete, leaked coolant, the blocks are good for 600+ HP.
Ford put out a field service action to take care of the problem. Props to Ford for taking responsibility for fixing the problem and even covered rental car while work was being done.
Take your savings (Focus RS vs Golf R) and put them into a fully-warranteed APR Plus tune (you retain your full warranty) and put the Focus RS into your Golf R's rearview mirror.
Great job TH on another amazing review ... I think you captured the sentiment bang on for a road based review. However at the track or AutoX course the differences are truly staggering ... really no comparison.
Many of the points you've highlighted like the indoor/outdoor styling and ride quality are really a matter of personal preference. IMHO between both cars there's a lot of give and take. Both are not perfect as you've pointed out. But to get the best combo of comfort and performance in the aftermarket, golf R wins. You just need to pair the sleeper exterior with a stage 1 tune and done. For focus RS with that bone shattering suspension + indoor styling is hard to live with everyday and it will be an expensive proposition to look in the aftermarket. Of course as always personal opinion and choices differs I give you credit for that.
Yes the Golf could be tuned. But there are limits to a 50 50 torque split and open differentials. The RS just feels much better suited to agressive driving. Which suits my style. The golf is much more refined as we could expect from VW. Im sure with proper chassis set up and some upgrades the Golf R could be a riot on the track too.
+E46 Reviews with T.H. I think you hit the target there. Focus RS was made to be aggressive and the R as a sleeper... literally... hence the looks and styling and the mechanics of both machines. Actually its very obvious.
I own a MKVII Golf R.The Golf R was designed as an all rounder and to have a broad appear.The Focus RS is a car that you could also live with on a daily basis however it is more a niche car.There is more track work focus in the Focus RS than the Golf R.I believe that the refined factor of the Golf R will not change in subsequent Golfs,that does not mean that VW will not come out with special/limited editions of a more track focused R.They did it with the Golf GTI Clubsport. If you remember they were testing a Golf R with 410 hp until VW pulled the plug (because of the diesel scandal).Apparently that engine was given to Audi
A great review, thanks. I literally Lol'd when you went "weeeee" in the Golf R hahaha.. I can see which car produced more smiles and laughs and the RS definitely supplies those! :)
Your review and observations are spot on right. That said, and being able to make the choice, I still went for the R. Why? Let's face it, many of us do not want to look like we're dying to go get a speeding ticket very time we drive a car. What's appealing about the R is that it's a sleeper. The understated refinement fits the bill. The Focus reminds me of a refined Ricer's car - on appearance, but I envy the track worthiness. I do track the R, and it is a heavily fwd bias drive. And it would be a blast with 60+ hp. Luckily, there is APR or Unitronic, but you wish you didn't need to go there. Thanks again.
haha. You got it! I totally respect your decision by the way. The R is the better daily. And I bet with some clever suspension tweaking you could get it to be a little more tail happy.
Falls apart on the track? Going to have to disagree there, traction control in sport mode (or off if you're good) and it works great. And i speak from experience, I have one. Otherwise great comparison. It works a lot better with the JB1 module, that extra bit of oomph helps a lot, and makes it much more comparable to the RS/STi/EVO. I do wish it say came with a proper torque vectoring system, or at the very least the same electronic diff out of the GTI but what can ya do.
It holds up well to the abuse. Better than the RS. It keeps up with RS in the straights. But it doesn't do all that great in the corners. That's what really sets it apart from the RS. But still an awesome car no doubt about it!
MrThePrivateer let's see the link. With the same tires the RS will still win. The Golf can't get through the corners as good as the RS. And it's not because of the tires. Mostly it's the AWD system. So unless you change that or do a lot of mods to the Golf it will lose.
MrThePrivateer I'm hardly a Ford fan boy. But I am a professional performance driving instructor. And I do have over 10 years of competition driving experience. Plus I have driven stock and modified versions of both these cars on the track on more than one occasion. Not once have I seen the R prove to me it's faster around a road course than the RS under similar conditions. So tell me how many times you've personally put these cars head to head on track with a qualified driver behind the wheel? 😉
+MrThePrivateer Totally agree ... it sounds like you have some extensive experience testing both cars on the track with different configurations? If so, please share your experience and videos if possible as inquiring minds would like to know ;) And lucky guy ... owning or having access to both cars!
actually a good honest review.... i own an ST and this RS is what i truly wanted my 13 FoST to be but they didn't come out with the idea till a year later which i knew Ford would when i watched the live debut in Europe 2/03/15....would luv to trade my ST for this RS until i saw the GT350.
You can make it in Sport mode with ESC turned fully off =] start rolling, start turning, after you've turned about 60 degrees, clutch in, rev near redline, clutch dump and it'll slide the back end around the last 120 degrees no problem 😄
Drove both a lot after watching a heap of reviews like this, and bought the r. The rs is a sometimes car. It's like that friend who is hilarious on a Saturday night out and you avoid the rest of the week.
Also your overlooking the Focus RS will absolutely overheat that rear drive on a track and then it goes 100% FWD Its a big negative. Also it can send 100% of that 70% maximum to each rear wheel but not 100% of the cars power.
I'd like to see a comparison between the MK8 Golf R and the old Focus RS. I am/was planning on buying a MK8 Golf R, but the prices are just ridiculous. Like $55k minimum out the door pretty much... Not sure if I should wait for a MK8 Golf R at a good price or if I should just go for a used Focus RS instead for only $35k...
Nice ,honest review :) , i love them both . One more bad thing about Focus RS , maybe you said it but i didnt heard , rear diff gets too hot and then it just gets swiched off untill its cooled down. So then it becomes usual Focus :D But other then that , they rly nailed it with this version of RS. Keep up the good work! :)
I could have chosen the RS, but I chose the R. If I could have 2 cars, and have the RS alone as my sole go out and have fun car; i would've given it more serious consideration (though I'd probably go porsche or some convertible roadster). But the interior of the RS was painfully bad, i felt embarrassingly so. On top of all that, RS is to boy toy, in your face race rocket looking. Subdued look of the R allows me to show up to jobs or meet people and have them not think of some sort of lunatic fast and furious racer. I think these cars hit both points perfectly. Some people care about their track times, they like the race rocket look... others want a nice kind of do it all car that can be fun when you want it to be; but not sacrifice as much in other areas. Have to give it to both of them; great and what they aim to be, or who they aim to please.
VW have better version of Golf R.... Audi RS3 and that car is for comparing vs Focus RS... RS vs RS... 5 cylinder vs 5 cylinder.... over 2000 ccm engines.... VW is purposly made Golf R less powerfull than Audi RS3 ... that is their policy. I just want to say that Golf R and Focus RS are not best choice to compare. But i think Golf is definitely better daily driveing car.
I will admit Ford Hot hatches all of them ride hard are better suited to a track. VW are more conservative and realise most people dont drive on a track so offer adjustable suspension, Comfort, Normal and Race. The Focus is stiff or stiffer.
I wasn't able to test drive either the VW or civic type R. The dealers behaved like jerks and wanted me to buy before I try. It wasn't necessary. This car is just so much fun that it was just sold itself on the first drive. If you pay extra for a hot hatch, why not buy the best?
Just wish the RS didn't have those motor issues. Throw a simple tune on the R and you have a car that runs in the 11s. If you want a weekend track warrior and want to keep your car stock, get the RS. Just check its recall history. If you want something easier to live with and make into something more (up to 500hp on the stock block), get the R. Also, the new MK8 R can now kick its rear end out finally. Unfortunately the STI is now dead, we'll have to see what people can do with the new motors in the WRX and find ways to fix its awful exterior.
I'd have to disagree. Auto rev matching diminishes the driving experience and can, in rare cases, actually blow your engine up. In my opinion the BMW M2 is an amazing car and essentially my dream car at the moment. The ONLY thing I hate about it is the auto rev matching function. BMW made an affordable drivers car thats essentially track ready and they blew it by adding that. The only way to turn it off is to completely disable all traction control. Pretty stupid. Hopefully someone will release a software tune that allows you to disable it. Essentially this is how I feel: if you need auto rev matching you shouldn't be driving a manual, just get the double clutch auto if available. But to each their own
Have you tried auto rev match? Just curious if you just don't like the idea or you have tried and don't like it. I swear by it in my gt4. Of course dual clutch and crazy fast automatics are the future, but might as well enjoy the most advanced manual for now. I see your point, rev match shouldn't be forced on you, should be easy to turn off. (Or easy to turn on in my case). I went with a dsg golf r.
Yeah I'm not a fan. Its like when I drive my girlfriend's automatic. Feels wrong for a while. I find it takes the connection away from you as a driver. No rev matching, no heel-toe ect. Its almost an automatic with a clutch. But yeah I could live with it if you could just turn it off.
I have a GTI and my wife has a base model Focus. The interior in her Focus definitely sucks. As a GTI fanboy though, i always thought the R lacked the funky spirit of the GTI - and its AWD system isnt even very good. If you're going to make a powerful, AWD hot hatch, do it like Ford with the RS - bonkers and fun. Way cooler car than the R for sure.
It depends what you are looking for. I'm in my 50s and the Focus just felt like a total Pikey's car. I'm very happy with my Golf R. And with the Akrapovic exhaust it has a great soundtrack that I can turn up or down
Hey guess what most seats have? Adjustable controls. Dont do that to my car bb. You know interior exterior powertrain awd system etc etc.. just better better. And you love it. Also I have a 2018 st and I dont get what people say about the turning radius. To me it's just fine if not better than most other dailies I've had. One being the b5 s4.👀🤷♂️
your german accent had me dying lol. great video. the nice guy in me wants the R the rebel in me wants the RS. they both look good but the RS is soooo effin sexy.
i like the exhaust sounds good from factory jus add dp and stage 1 tune and it will be 10000 better and be lowder but not to loud the focus rs can be to loud with exhaust but sounds perfect from factory.. u dont need to do much if anything to focus rs the golf r needs coilovers exhaust intake tune etc for me where the focus rs is litterally perfect from factory and drives so much better handles like on rails
Love the RS. Pitty the dealers in So Cal wanted SO much over sticker. My dealer had 3 side by side in the showroom and for good reason they were $$,$$$ kind of money marked up.
The Golf has that little bit of responsibility that someone hopelessly irresponsible like myself needs. I WANT the RS but I also don't want to kill myself and perhaps others. I will keep pushing beyond all reason and the RS will keep pushing me to do so right up until it's exceptional ability runs out and so does the road. The Golf on the other hand will push me right up to that limit then place a warm hand on my shoulder in the form of understeer and pull me back from the brink before my life ends. I could be more of a responsible driver but that's just not who I am or who I want to be. I want to own the RS and let it thrill me for the same reasons as was mentioned in this review, but I want to continue driving like a madman more. So I'm buying the Golf. I know I'll see an RS out there and think deep down that I could be driving that and be even more thrilled than I am with the Golf, but that's silly because most likely I'd be dead instead. I'm just not a responsible driver and in reality, I never want to be. Thus the golf is for me.
Trust me, you will get bored of the Golf R unfortunately. I don't think you're ready for one any time soon by the sounds of it. Me included! Actually, the Focus RS is not what I'd describe as a dangerous feeling car but is actually a fun one with quite a character and like all modern cars over the last few years, they're still much safer feeling than the "older" type cars from 10+ years ago. I would go out and ask for a test drive as soon as you can in a mk 3 Focus RS. I used to borrow my mum's Ford Escort popular and that thing often tried to kill me but it was never boring lol! I can assure you that the RS is not like this! If you did happen to go out and test drive a Focus RS, try the standard and also the 'Edition". You get a better ride without the frustrating safety nannies you get with the Golf R which give the feeling that they're pushing you back, rather than the car wanting to push forward. This characteristic of the car isn't exactly fun and this to me doesn't represent a true feeling of being in a fun hot hatch. Serious and fast, yes and if that's what you like, then that's very good. The RS is still a responsible persons car but don't let others' decisions steer your decision making. In the end, you are the decider. Simply put, if you can drive, you are a responsible adult whatever age.
If you get excited about the looks of a Focus, even the RS, then I am sorry to say that your standards of automotive beauty are extremely low. At least the VW isn't trying to be something it is not. These are economy car chassis's, slapping on some vents and wings doesn't transform them, just like when you see some folks trying "pimp" other mundane rides, it just look ridiculous. To me it is like putting lipstick on a pig, at the end of the day it is still a pig. Oh so you "heard that it falls apart on track"? What quality reporting! Had you bothered to do a little research, you would find there are plenty of actual track tests that beg to differ with "what you heard". The main issue with the VW (other than the front weight bias all these cars have) is the tires, and again VW compromised some track performance for real world practicality. And rightly so, because these are intended to be daily drivers, not track toys. Putting cup 2 tires on a hatchback is idiotic. What is fun for an afternoon is not always better to live with day after day, and year after year. I have no doubt the Focus has a more visceral driving experience, but that can get tiring and annoying when you spend the majority of your time slogging around in traffic with your mother-in-law and kids in the back. The VW is the much better real world practical family car for a grown up auto enthusiast. Trust me, as a family man that tried to use an EVO 8 as a daily driver/track car, only then can you appreciate the compromises that VW made with the Golf R. I often felt ridiculous driving the EVO, I told myself that I didn't care and that it was worth it for those rare moments when you could let it hang out a bit, but the truth is you do care, and the performance/comfort compromises are not worth it for a daily. I have seen the most hard core enthusiast succumb to this reality. Plus we already have a somewhat practical four door with a great visceral driving experience (with torque vectoring), it was called the EVO. With the same tires I bet an EVO would be every bit as good if not better, and it is a lot cheaper with proven reliability. But for me, if I want a good looking visceral driving experience I will buy a real sports car, but if I want a fun daily driver that can scratch that occasional performance itch and not make me feel embarrassed to be seen in it, the Golf R is the better choice here. BTW, there are many reports that when the RS is driven on a track at the limit it also understeers badly like the front heavy FWD economy car it ultimately is, apparently those torque vectoring differentials can only do so much, or they didn't get it sorted out as well as Mitsubishi did? Although if you went in way to hot with the EVO it would understeer also, nothing beats a purpose built well balanced chassis. Also they say those fancy differentials overheat after only a couple of laps and you are left with essentially a $50K Focus ST.
The Ford Focus rs FEELS more exciting on the road. If you drive them both back to back the ford feels better, more engaging, and more exciting. As for the track test. That is coming. I will be testing these two back to back on the track. And for the styling. I think the ford has the performance to back it up. 350 hp and a sophisticated torque vectoring drivetrain.
Also the focus RS IS designed to be a track toy. It has a "drift mode" and a "race mode" highly unlikely that ford intended those modes to be used while going out to grab a coffee in the morning.
If you want a track toy, a 3500 lb front heavy four door hatchback is far from the best choice. Those fancy diffs are a band aid trying to overcome the inherent shortcomings of a poorly balanced over weight chassis of an economy car. They only help so much, add weight, complexity, and apparently over heat after only a couple of laps. It is more of a poser track toy, It won't hold up well to serious track use, if you want a real track toy get a well balanced sports car. These cars were intended to be practical daily drivers that could handle occasional track use. In that regard the VW is the better balanced compromise, the Ford is to gimmicky. I am sure for a short test drive it feels more exciting, but in the long run the VW is still the better choice. Personally I would buy a new base GTI with PP ($25K new) and a used Porsche Cayman or Boxster for a weekend/track toy. You could easily get both for the cost of a new Focus RS and have a much better fun daily and a dedicated track toy. And if you break your toy playing too rough you still have your daily.
+Eric Michel I actually didn't see the whole original comment. It didn't load on my phone. You are right about the Evo. It is a very good car. And I don't disagree about long term usability being an issue in these hardened sporty hatchbacks. As I said I will be trying both on the track back to back. So I will report on how they behave at the limit. I'm interested to see how the chassis balance of each creates its own unique driving experience. And the "embarrassment" factor is 100% up to the individual.
Slightly less performance is a fair swap for the increase in absolutely everything else...then you £700 APR Stage 1 tune it to 360hp...Golf R is an exceptional everyday drive. Potter along at 42mpg with nobody bothering you and then chase Porsches. A Caterham is a much better track car but it would kill you every day.
Having owned the Focus ST and compromising on cabin space and horrible Microsoft sync system....I went with the Golf R DSG. Basically in my opinion the RS is a great track car... But how often are you going to run it!!!!! Plus I out grew the giant wing era and cookie cutter gimmicks like "Drift Mode".
I think your channel is going to become big one day. Great stuff
3 years later, you weren't wrong
@@scottycarter5442 Proud to be right :)
Lol glitch in the matrix this man was from the future.
Quincy Longman still even three years ago there videos are still good.
Over a million subs now.
This is why I still own my Focus RS. It's an all out blast to drive every single day. My kid asks me to go fast all the time. What more can I ask?
Great to hear
Thats what it’s all about
I got one 4 months ago and I just dont think theres a better bang for your buck out there. Its so much fun, its quick, it corners, it looks amazing and everytime I go to the mountains to snowboard I get to meet up with the 2 other guys that drive there RS up almost every weekend.
can you explain how quick it is?
I also was heavily debating between the Golf R and the Focus RS. The Golf R is a gorgeous looking car. Simple looking, but very elegant. The RS of course is a lot more in your face and more bold styling.
I ended up buying the Focus RS in the nitrous blue color. After test driving it, it was absolutely intoxicating. It has surgically precise handling and the connection between driver and driveline is stunning.
Even though the blue is a very loud and bold color, I had to go with it. It's absolutely gorgeous, especially in the sunlight. It has a deep metallic glint.
I'm still in love with the Golf R however.
I have the same car been 2 yrs...what a blast...launch control=everybody in rearview mirror 👍👍
tear tugging love story.
I test drove the focus RS and I like it. I will say up front I am not a big ford fan. I flipped back and forth on the Rs and the Golf R did a lot of research and end up with the Golf R. I don't regret it but I don't blame any one that end up with the RS. What push me to get the golf is the head gasket issue that ford had with the car but at the time all i could find and read about it was the engine was blowing up and do the issue of me pushing the car everyday getting on and off the high way and autocrossing and drag racing and wanting to do track also just really liking sleepers also as my only car the thought of a blown engine tuned me off from it.
@@knightridder2002 lol I was just about to make a comment about the head gaskets. Hope this guys' is still doing well
As a 5 year RS owner with 89k miles on it, I say:
I actually have always preferred the styling of the Golf R. It just looks... Nice. It's not showy, but it also doesn't look slow, it's just clean. I like the nitrous blue color, but the RS looks a little messy otherwise.
Engine note, I don't think I have a preference... Most of the induction noise you hear in the RS in the video is recorded audio being played through the speakers. I.e., it's not even a mic under the hood enhancing the sound for the occupants, it's *literally* recorded audio synced with the engine. I unplugged the box that does that (it's in the trunk) within the first month of having it, and while now it doesn't sound as exciting, at least what I'm hearing is the *real* engine. Not sure if the Golf R has anything like that, but IMO it was a cheap and ill-conceived gimmick with the RS.
I guess I'm biased on the NVH with the RS because I came from an AP1 S2000, which was *much* bouncier and louder, so the RS still feels super comfortable to me 😂 I've taken it across the country a couple of times, best road trip car I've ever had. Especially now with 18" wheels and Pilot AS4s as my summer tire (it rains a lot here), takes the edge off and makes the ride quieter, but it still has *plenty* of grip... And it's more predictable at the limit than with the stock 19s and Michelin PSS tires, *especially* in the rain.
The interior doesn't bother me... Again, coming from an early S2000 with 250k miles on it, way more comfortable and well-equipped.
The only real deal breaker for me with the Golf R was the lack of playfulness... I like to kick the back end around and go hard at it in the RS on gravel and dirt roads, and it feels *fantastic*. If you try to go 10/10ths in the Golf R it's like it wants you to calm down and take it down a couple of notches... It definitely prefers being driven at 8/10ths. That's also just in Sport mode in the RS... People think you need to be in Drift mode, but Drift mode is just another gimmick that isn't very useful. It'll perform a much better slide in Sport mode with ESC turned fully off.
As far as overheating the rear diff... 🤷♂️ I've never had it happen, and the only time I've *seen* it happen was when someone was doing donuts back and forth over and over on hot, dry pavement with sticky PSS tires. If you're driving for speed, keeping it composed and only occasionally hanging the tail in a good corner, it'll never happen to you.
As a fellow RS owner with 60k miles, you’ve perfectly augmented this review and summed up the car. Found myself nodding the entire time reading this.
R and RS need to have a baby together. Golf R interior RS powertrain. #RRS
RS-R....duh
Pedram you don't have to make a change to the rs, it's perfect like this.
Pedram you don't have to make a change to the rs, it's perfect like this.
then get an audi rs3. it has the luxury of the golf R and even more performance than the focus rs. the problem with this one is the price lol
I would take the engine from the R the interior from the R the looks of the R and I would take the awd drive system from the RS but would get rid of drift mode and the shifter from the RS.
i see you are becoming a legit review channel. Your quality is improving fast, but not that it was bad to begin with.
292hp is just in northern American version. European version has more power. Mk 7.5 FL has 310hp.
I'm a big VW guy but I would choose the RS from a performance viewpoint. But the interiors of VW is always something really special compared to other entry level luxury vehicles.
Been a fan of you guys for two years now. Love seeing how genuine you’ve been this entire time. Love it.
Fantastic, honest review! 10 years ago, I think I'd take the Focus. But I'm leaning more toward the Golf R because I want the comfort, smoother ride and those leather seats. I'm in my 40's and currently own an s2000 and while I still want to have fun when I drive, frankly, I'm kinda tired of the bumpy, tight ride. I think the Golf R is the best for me.
Yea if you are looking for comfort go golf R. And don't forget it's still a little rocket. Lots of fun!
since i already have 2 track cars the last thing i need is another track car. if i get a more sporty car for the street it will be a golf r or tt rs. either way im going to take it straight to apr.
ive bought 3 cars in the last year and buying a rat rod truck very soon. so sadly my financial situation will play a big part on that decision. i want the tt rs but i have a feeling it will be 75k-80k plus apr another 10k-15k. golf r is 40k with another 10k-15k for apr. 55k on the high vs 95k on the high. thats a huge difference.
MrThePrivateer If I get one more then likely. I'm getting a rat rod truck first.
I tested both of these cars as I wanted a 4WD hatch that I could take skiing and use as a semi daily driver but that would be a blast to drive. I also own a BMW 1M Coupe which is just a plain awesome car to drive and wanted something comparable. ultimately I found the RS a much more involving drive than the Golf. yes the interior of the Golf is nicer but the Ford is quite acceptable. Ford has put its money into the suspension, the brakes and the Powerplant and it shows. I also struggle with the blandness of the Golf's looks though that is subjective. I put my money down on the RS and I bloody love it!
Respectfully put and I couldn't agree more. I find my RS' interior to be fine acceptable and even like it. They're both good cars. I don't like the break-vectoring system as much.
I echo your sentiments, from another 1M owner, who also owns a Focus RS. 👍
Checking in - do you still have your RS? Any regrets? I’m debating R vs RS as well.
@@fightingcarrot bump^
@@fightingcarrot if you're still looking, try not to get a 2016 RS as opposed to a 2017 or 2018. If you do, make sure that the head gasket has been swapped out. Other than that, it's a pretty basic trade from comfort to performance. The drive is really firm, but the awd inspires a lot of confidence, which I didn't really find in the golf. If you race or like to drive spiritedly, there are a couple of hangups that I had. One is that it you heel-toe downshift, you'll find that you might need to adjust how you do it, because the throttle is uncomfortably far below the brake. Also the drift mode isn't as great as they advertise, and doesn't really do anything unless you turn off all traction control
Edit: also, and I know the video mentions this, the turning circle is probably the worst thing I've experienced in a car. You won't be able to make u-turns unless you have three lanes or are willing to do three point turns
Great comparison video. I am admittedly a Golf R fanboy since I own one, but I generally agree with everything you said. The Focus RS is a sharper performer in nearly every way. The thing that made me choose the Golf R over the RS is the combination of comfort, refinement, and everyday manners in a car that I drive to work everyday, while still being stupidly fast when I want it to be. Either way, great video and channel.
+Gregory Lopes thanks! You are right. The R is the MUCH more compliant daily driver. And still tons of fun. Also I think I've said it before but the classy/ functional German interior is just a really nice place to be.
E46 Reviews with T.H. absolutely. The German refinement was hard to pass up. However, if I was in a situation where one of these cars would only be my weekend or fun car, the Focus RS would have been the right choice, hands down.
I agree totally with you. I'm a Golf R fan but after looking at this video, I'm wondering did I make the right choice? This is a great car though. I'm just not a huge Ford fan.
16 golf r stage 2 eurodyne 3" catted dp, cts turbo intake, cts bov with stage 4 6 puck ceramic clutch on vwr springs. Also just did the exhaust with res delete and a magnaflow mufflers, can hear backfires when giving her and letting off gas. Planning to do intercooler and water meth injection in the spring. I personally think the car is a blast after tuned.
You may need to add a high pressure fuel pump and add a small muffler to stop the back fire.
Golf R has my vote. One thing you didn't mention was fuel efficiency.
Great video! Thank you!
Full disclosure: I own a 2017 VW Golf R 6MT. That said, I did go back and forth between the R and the RS. But after awhile, knowing what I want and need, I went for the R. Haven't looked back since and love the car.
That said, with regards to your comment about the 292hp numbers... I believe the German cars typically underrate the engine output. From what I've heard, they provide the minimal output horsepower if a car was running on top of a mountain on a super hot day or something. So the theory is, at its worst condition, the engine can produce at minimum, 292hp. In actuality, at peak condition, it may produce over 300. Same goes for Audi, Porsche, BMW etc...
Anyways, 292 v. 350 are significant differences, but in my opinion, the most important difference between these two are the AWD system as far as performance is concerned. Personally, I prefer the understated look of the R, the upscale interior, and the badge and the history that go along with it.
Plus, I got the new R for $37.5k! I've heard that Ford dealerships were selling over the sticker price for the RS. The price difference was a big factor for me too.
+Dave Paek actually the golf has a round 300 "ps" which is the German horsepower equivalent. (I was just making a joke to illustrate how the golf takes itself seriously. ) I think the golf is the better overall car so if you don't track regularly you made the right choice! Don't forget to watch my track test of these two!
With a kid on the way, don't think I'll be going to the track that much, which is another reason why I opted for this. Also, I'm a bit of a VW fan boy... also own a 2016 Golf SportWagen. My buddy bought the RS and absolutely loves it. In all honesty, I think both cars serve two separate purposes but both are great cars. Thanks again for the video, great production.
Golf R has no history it's the the only R made, Volkswagen Badge isn't anything to be proud of it has as much worth as a ford.
Add me to the list of guys who'd rather have the Golf R. I have driven both now and I'd like to own a Golf R. I'd like to borrow the Focus RS. If I was solely doing a backroad blast it'd be the other way around.
Rod Reichardt no regrets here
I do back road blasts every day to work and back. I'd like to borrow the Golf R for when I need to do a turning circle 😆
Probably your best video yet. Keep up the good work man!
Nobody who bought a Golf R wishes they bought a Ford RS.
I personally know of one!
Everybody who brought a Golf R wishes they brought a FORD RS
Not with all the coolant leaks they have & overheating AWD system in the snow... etc etc. Buy the golf R, Tune it its still cheaper then the Ford and now its faster & still more reliable
K9 JSB - until they live with one for a week and immediately regret it the moment they realize they need a monthly visit to the chiropractor. The over dampened RS is too rough for daily driving
It's two different cars, if you want a sleeper and to look like every other tom, dick and harry get a Golf R, If you want to stand out a bit and want a car that makes no excuse for what it is get an RS, I'd rather have an RS because every man and his dog have a Golf R
Great video! I love how you just pump out quality content.
Thanks dude! Share the channel!
You're jumping around inside the car the whole video. Funny the RS was mentioned as a good car for everyday use, because that's exactly the main difference to the R. Track day vs Everyday.
I'm tempted to R due to much easier everyday performance, plus the DSG7 is great.
I came here because I’m thinking about the golf R and my mind hasn’t been changed. I’d love to drive the focus rs but as my only vehicle I want a German interior and decent ride quality. There was a point in my life where I would have preferred the focus’s styling but I think by the time most people can afford one of these cars their tastes/ priorities change.
Absolutely agree. Having owned a Golf R and driven students’ Focus RSes on track and around town, the former is a much better all-around car. The Focus is more like the Civic Type R (had one of those as a shop car): raucous and rowdy but too gaudy and punishing for me to live with everyday. I have several friends - track-day and racing buddies - who have also driven both and bought a Golf R. They don’t appeal to the same consumer.
also wish you guys would test the golf with the DSG, that's where it all comes together.
I'm 21 and I'm over having my spine shattered over every bump Golf R in a few days
Good review...I drove the Golf R DSG a month ago and it is every bit as serious and mature as you make it out to be. It feels like a daily driver with 292~ HP and AWD. By the way the Focus RS has brake based torque vectoring on the front wheels.
Correct. But it's the way it gets the power down in the rear that changes the character of it completely.
These where also my two choices.....I also bought the RS and i'm so glad i did. Very rare to see them around and responds so good to mods and the fun factor is off the charts for the money. Now I have 440bhp and 412 torque on a 91 tune with Water/Meth on the way and more mods in my garage 500bhp will be here soon!
The focus rs and the subari sti are meant to be boy racer cars; feel faster (due to the not as refined chassy), racer boy seats, etc. The interiors suck and everyday driving will be horrendous. You say NOW that the RS is more fun to drive and sure many people will agree, but back to your point as a family/one time purchase car..... Golf R is a better refined car that's not only cheaper but has the best interior for its class, can be very very easily and reliably be tuned to get those so great hp numbers that you desperately want on paper, and the wife can drive it without complaining.
Bladeserpent, doesn’t matter how much hp u‘ll have in ur golf r if it can’t handle worth a damn. I‘d choose a 150hp perfect handling car over 300hp understeering crap any day.
To add, my wife loves to drive my focus rs. Her only complaint is when i put it in track mode and her tits bounce all over 😆
I'm 40, divorced, with no kids.
To be honest, 'boy racer' is so overused now it's basically just something boomers say to make themselves feel like there's any mature reason to buy a 300hp+ car. There isn't, you're buying a fancy toy because you like when it goes vroom, don't try to act like having racing seats or a spoiler is the real immature part 😂
Excellent review as always T. H.!
Your conclusion is spot on. They are both great cars. And are both very fun to drive. The Golf is a little better for daily driving and all the tasks it demands. But just by a little bit. The Ford is way more fun to drive and is way quicker on a track when pushed to its limits.
People are quick to comment how the Ford is quicker but somehow that is negated by the fact that the diff heats up and causes issues. Good luck finding a reasonably priced sports car that can do consistent hot laps without something giving issue. Such as breaks, engine temps, etc....
I personally think the extra money on the price tag the Ford is worth it in this scenario.
Thanks! And totally agree there are always trade offs for real performance. I watched an engineering special on //Drive channel and the engineer talked about how making power in a race car is easy... What matters is how LONG you want to have that power FOR in a race. I.e. Endurance racing requires power sacrifices for temperature longevity. So the Focus is meant to do a decent number of fantastic hot laps, then it will let you know when you have done too much. #worthit
great review, however I know what I'd rather be driving 3 months later.... that Ford focus will get old very quick...it may have more Street Creed but it certainly doesn't have as much class as the Golf R
Benjay1975 your joking right ! the Ford focus rs is a legend in the car world. I'm currently in a year waiting list to get mine. the price probably won't drop. and I think it looks more classy then that boring golf that everyone has got
salfordmike focus rs There is nothing classy about a Focus RS. It's a boy racer style car and there is nothing wrong with that. The Golf R is the classy one.
Benjay1975 are you insane? You could never call Focus RS "classy". Have you even seen the interior which looks 10 years old not to mention the boy racer style which won't suit everyone.
This choice is easy: I don’t want engine that will self-destruct purely due to their manufacturer’s engineering negligence.
On second thought this choice is harder than anticipated.
In my experience, the two cars fill different niches. The Golf R is a fun hot-hatch for people who want a more mature, well-appointed car that is fast, lively, and practical but understated. I’ve had one, and so have several of my friends. We’re all in our mid- to late-40s and have other track-day or race cars. So I didn’t contemplate the Golf R as a track car. The Focus RS (I’ve driven two, on track and around town) is a younger man’s car, sharp, very fast, and more thrilling, but at the cost of “take your wife to dinner” refinement. It better suits someone who doesn’t have another track/race car and will trade refinement for excitement and 10/10ths capability. I personally prefer the Golf R, a fantastic daily driver that doesn’t remind me constantly that it would rather be at the track.
In your age bracket and just bought a Golf R
Agreed. I'm 55 and went for a 2019 Golf R. I drove the Golf and the RS back to back, and the RS felt like a Pikey's car. Way too showy and tacky. I like the quiet class of the Golf, but that in an instant it becomes a hit man in a suit when you want to boot it. Is the Focus faster and more hardcore ? Yes. Is the Golf a better all rounder? Yes.
Remember the Top Gear coolness test? If you were picking up Kristin Scott Thomas to take her out for dinner, would she get in your car? I think the Golf she would be happy to ride in. The Focus she'd run away from.
i cant believe im just now discovering your high quality channel.....you should post on r/cars
+Ganaria Gente I've posted a few things in the past. I don't like to just constantly self promote on Reddit though. Not what reddit is for. If YOU want to post the channel though... Lol
So many butthurt golf R fanboys. It's ok guys, you can still like what you like. Be thankful we have 2 such nice hatches to pick from.
I test drove the R and the RS and STI all back to back, like literally, I went from one dealership to the other. The R did not put a smile on my face, the STI was meh, and the RS was the one that put a smile on my face. I turned off the traction control on the R but it couldn’t be turned off. The RS just boomed more bad-ass power and I could turn off traction control and find that edge myself. I got the 2018 RS and absolutely love it. I had also researched that maintenance would be more costly, lengthier waits for parts with the R and less with the RS. Yup, the RS won for me and 37k miles later, I still absolutely love it. It’s been 100% reliable. It’s held it’s value well too
Had the RS. Switching to a golf R
Good luck with china made interior, and a shitty engine😅
_________________ Nah, he said he’s switching to the R. The RS has the shitty interior and the engine known for blowing head gaskets.
Dakota Reeves at least the RS is not German which is a good thing, better looking, faster, more fun, not German o sorry did I say that twice...
Dakota Reeves The only reason the RS blew head gaskets is because they installed the wrong gaskets.
John Featherbe The RS’ were actually built in Germany
This is so cool to see how far your videos have come!😂🎉
Harsh ride, Fisher-Price interior, costs more than the R? No thanks. I want a car I can live with on a daily basis. Besides, if I want more performance, I'll get an APR tune and it'll still cost less than the RS.
At least with the Ford you know you’ll get an engine replacement within 40k miles due to head gasket failures 🤷🏼♂️
Late 2017 and 18 doesn't have that issue
I like how ford fixed that issue over two years ago but people still keep attacking it. And it wasn't a headgasket failure. It had the wrong headgasket, causing it to have a failure.
@@nonooohlii : exactly. 41k miles on mine and still more fun to daily than my previous 2010 Camaro SS
That turning radius in the Focus is real😂😂
Personally I faced this decision recently as well. I ended up thinking exactly what you concluded. I had a ST, and wanted something with AWD. I was considering the Gold R heavily. But after test driving one I just didn't feel the connection to the car. So i ponied up and preordered an RS. Just took delivery of it last week and I do not regret my decision at all.
Completely agree though that the ride and turning radius are horrid. But totally worth it when zipping down a backroad! Thanks for the review! Keep it up.
Yes, I daily drive the RS. Its very similar to daily driving a STI in terms of suspension but with a bit better gas mileage. I don't have any issues driving it for my work commute or anything of the sort. In fact i just took it on a 1100 mile round trip with my 6 year old kid and she didn't mind at all either. Falls short in some ways for sure. Size of the gas tank and suspension is certainly a bit firm. But I don't have any regrets.
The golf r is gonna age so well. As for the focus...
It may age well but it'll be worth fuck all in about 2 years time and it'll be even MORE common than it already is. A car for sheep, if you want something like that you'd get an A45
@@skepta5499 Hardly a car for sheep just because it's not the one you prefer we aren't all edgy fan boys who are happy with sub par comfort in day to day driving which is what these cars are. You buy these as do it all cars and the golf is the better all rounder. Yes the focus is more fun and may make a better 2nd car/toy but if that was my aim I wouldn't be looking at either of these cars.
Didn't say that was the reason that it's a car for sheep. They literally look fuck all different to any other golf, barring the exhaust tips. It look's boring and everyone has one. Be different.
@@skepta5499 Golf R's hold their value very well actually. not so much the gti though. 2015 and 2016's go for around upper 20's or around 30k
Your everyday driver is the R,with a wicked side, but the bonkers RS looks a little more fun to drive I have to side with the R as my days of being a street racer are over.
Haven't heard of any Golf R's with cracked engine blocks..............the Focus on the other hand
No focus has had a cracked engine block, there was a casting issue on a run of 60 cars with a bolt hole manufactured incomplete, leaked coolant, the blocks are good for 600+ HP.
Ford put out a field service action to take care of the problem. Props to Ford for taking responsibility for fixing the problem and even covered rental car while work was being done.
Haven't heard of a Golf R beating an RS either, you don't hear a lot about these Golf R's, I wonder why....
There’s been major issues with RS floating deck blocks. Rubbish engines
Take your savings (Focus RS vs Golf R) and put them into a fully-warranteed APR Plus tune (you retain your full warranty) and put the Focus RS into your Golf R's rearview mirror.
How do i do this?
Great job TH on another amazing review ... I think you captured the sentiment bang on for a road based review. However at the track or AutoX course the differences are truly staggering ... really no comparison.
Thanks. I can believe that. You can really tell what the RS is capable of on the track.
Many of the points you've highlighted like the indoor/outdoor styling and ride quality are really a matter of personal preference. IMHO between both cars there's a lot of give and take. Both are not perfect as you've pointed out. But to get the best combo of comfort and performance in the aftermarket, golf R wins. You just need to pair the sleeper exterior with a stage 1 tune and done. For focus RS with that bone shattering suspension + indoor styling is hard to live with everyday and it will be an expensive proposition to look in the aftermarket.
Of course as always personal opinion and choices differs I give you credit for that.
Yes the Golf could be tuned. But there are limits to a 50 50 torque split and open differentials. The RS just feels much better suited to agressive driving. Which suits my style. The golf is much more refined as we could expect from VW. Im sure with proper chassis set up and some upgrades the Golf R could be a riot on the track too.
+E46 Reviews with T.H.
I think you hit the target there. Focus RS was made to be aggressive and the R as a sleeper... literally... hence the looks and styling and the mechanics of both machines. Actually its very obvious.
I own a MKVII Golf R.The Golf R was designed as an all rounder and to have a broad appear.The Focus RS is a car that you could also live with on a daily basis however it is more a niche car.There is more track work focus in the Focus RS than the Golf R.I believe that the refined factor of the Golf R will not change in subsequent Golfs,that does not mean that VW will not come out with special/limited editions of a more track focused R.They did it with the Golf GTI Clubsport.
If you remember they were testing a Golf R with 410 hp until VW pulled the plug (because of the diesel scandal).Apparently that engine was given to Audi
A great review, thanks. I literally Lol'd when you went "weeeee" in the Golf R hahaha.. I can see which car produced more smiles and laughs and the RS definitely supplies those! :)
Your review and observations are spot on right. That said, and being able to make the choice, I still went for the R. Why? Let's face it, many of us do not want to look like we're dying to go get a speeding ticket very time we drive a car. What's appealing about the R is that it's a sleeper. The understated refinement fits the bill. The Focus reminds me of a refined Ricer's car - on appearance, but I envy the track worthiness. I do track the R, and it is a heavily fwd bias drive. And it would be a blast with 60+ hp. Luckily, there is APR or Unitronic, but you wish you didn't need to go there. Thanks again.
haha. You got it! I totally respect your decision by the way. The R is the better daily. And I bet with some clever suspension tweaking you could get it to be a little more tail happy.
Falls apart on the track? Going to have to disagree there, traction control in sport mode (or off if you're good) and it works great. And i speak from experience, I have one.
Otherwise great comparison. It works a lot better with the JB1 module, that extra bit of oomph helps a lot, and makes it much more comparable to the RS/STi/EVO. I do wish it say came with a proper torque vectoring system, or at the very least the same electronic diff out of the GTI but what can ya do.
It holds up well to the abuse. Better than the RS. It keeps up with RS in the straights. But it doesn't do all that great in the corners. That's what really sets it apart from the RS. But still an awesome car no doubt about it!
MrThePrivateer let's see the link. With the same tires the RS will still win. The Golf can't get through the corners as good as the RS. And it's not because of the tires. Mostly it's the AWD system. So unless you change that or do a lot of mods to the Golf it will lose.
MrThePrivateer and the video to support these claims?
MrThePrivateer I'm hardly a Ford fan boy. But I am a professional performance driving instructor. And I do have over 10 years of competition driving experience. Plus I have driven stock and modified versions of both these cars on the track on more than one occasion. Not once have I seen the R prove to me it's faster around a road course than the RS under similar conditions. So tell me how many times you've personally put these cars head to head on track with a qualified driver behind the wheel? 😉
+MrThePrivateer Totally agree ... it sounds like you have some extensive experience testing both cars on the track with different configurations? If so, please share your experience and videos if possible as inquiring minds would like to know ;) And lucky guy ... owning or having access to both cars!
actually a good honest review.... i own an ST and this RS is what i truly wanted my 13 FoST to be but they didn't come out with the idea till a year later which i knew Ford would when i watched the live debut in Europe 2/03/15....would luv to trade my ST for this RS until i saw the GT350.
Can’t you make the u-turn if you switch it to drift mode?
You can make it in Sport mode with ESC turned fully off =] start rolling, start turning, after you've turned about 60 degrees, clutch in, rev near redline, clutch dump and it'll slide the back end around the last 120 degrees no problem 😄
Drove both a lot after watching a heap of reviews like this, and bought the r. The rs is a sometimes car. It's like that friend who is hilarious on a Saturday night out and you avoid the rest of the week.
Focus RS sans hésiter une seule seconde 💙
Since watching this video I’ve seen the Golf R DSG stock hit 0-60 in 4.4 and the 1/4 at 12.5 which are faster than Civic Type R. Focus RS and Wrx STI
They lied about the go numbers I’m sure too lol
Nice review! Great to see this channel growing, as you put out awesome content :)
*I am sick to death of people complaining that “TRACK MODE” is to hard for the Public road !*
In fairness “track mode” is too hard for most race tracks as well.
Try driving a mini
Also your overlooking the Focus RS will absolutely overheat that rear drive on a track and then it goes 100% FWD Its a big negative. Also it can send 100% of that 70% maximum to each rear wheel but not 100% of the cars power.
+Allerum the overheating issue is an issue for sure. We will see how it holds up when i track test them soon.
very nicely done review and grats on the partnership!
I'd like to see a comparison between the MK8 Golf R and the old Focus RS.
I am/was planning on buying a MK8 Golf R, but the prices are just ridiculous. Like $55k minimum out the door pretty much... Not sure if I should wait for a MK8 Golf R at a good price or if I should just go for a used Focus RS instead for only $35k...
Nice ,honest review :) , i love them both . One more bad thing about Focus RS , maybe you said it but i didnt heard , rear diff gets too hot and then it just gets swiched off untill its cooled down. So then it becomes usual Focus :D But other then that , they rly nailed it with this version of RS. Keep up the good work! :)
+Ilija Trifunovic yep. I have concerns about the longevity of that awd system.
This car looks so sick in Black & White.
Always knew the Focus RS was fast. i didnt know it was 350hp AWD fast! Damn, i wonder how it stacks up against the mustangs lol
destroys them from a dig
@@63JackBlack Yet slower than a stock golf R that has a DSG :)
@@vroomgc I'd never buy an automatic hyper hatch, so you might as well add "but slower than the RS if it had DSG".
@@Hankblue Ya but that doesnt exist where as Golf R's are driving around, whether you like them or not, so best to avoid them at a street light ;)
@@vroomgc True 😜 It almost existed, DSG RS was set for production early 2020 but then the whole model was cancelled.
I could have chosen the RS, but I chose the R. If I could have 2 cars, and have the RS alone as my sole go out and have fun car; i would've given it more serious consideration (though I'd probably go porsche or some convertible roadster).
But the interior of the RS was painfully bad, i felt embarrassingly so. On top of all that, RS is to boy toy, in your face race rocket looking. Subdued look of the R allows me to show up to jobs or meet people and have them not think of some sort of lunatic fast and furious racer.
I think these cars hit both points perfectly. Some people care about their track times, they like the race rocket look... others want a nice kind of do it all car that can be fun when you want it to be; but not sacrifice as much in other areas. Have to give it to both of them; great and what they aim to be, or who they aim to please.
+Scharn Scharnhorst well said!
VW have better version of Golf R.... Audi RS3 and that car is for comparing vs Focus RS... RS vs RS... 5 cylinder vs 5 cylinder.... over 2000 ccm engines.... VW is purposly made Golf R less powerfull than Audi RS3 ... that is their policy. I just want to say that Golf R and Focus RS are not best choice to compare. But i think Golf is definitely better daily driveing car.
I will admit Ford Hot hatches all of them ride hard are better suited to a track. VW are more conservative and realise most people dont drive on a track so offer adjustable suspension, Comfort, Normal and Race. The Focus is stiff or stiffer.
My question is, which is more reliable? Looking to buy a new fun daily that works well in crap weather
I wasn't able to test drive either the VW or civic type R. The dealers behaved like jerks and wanted me to buy before I try. It wasn't necessary. This car is just so much fun that it was just sold itself on the first drive.
If you pay extra for a hot hatch, why not buy the best?
Cheapest focus rs is 35k in my area cheapest golf r is 25k for 10k more is it worth the focus rs? Focus rs 2016 90km and golf r is 2016 with 160 km
Just picked one up with 17k on it. So pumped
Just wish the RS didn't have those motor issues. Throw a simple tune on the R and you have a car that runs in the 11s. If you want a weekend track warrior and want to keep your car stock, get the RS. Just check its recall history. If you want something easier to live with and make into something more (up to 500hp on the stock block), get the R. Also, the new MK8 R can now kick its rear end out finally. Unfortunately the STI is now dead, we'll have to see what people can do with the new motors in the WRX and find ways to fix its awful exterior.
The focus RS needs an auto rev match. Nice comparison! Well done vid.
I'd have to disagree. Auto rev matching diminishes the driving experience and can, in rare cases, actually blow your engine up. In my opinion the BMW M2 is an amazing car and essentially my dream car at the moment. The ONLY thing I hate about it is the auto rev matching function. BMW made an affordable drivers car thats essentially track ready and they blew it by adding that. The only way to turn it off is to completely disable all traction control. Pretty stupid. Hopefully someone will release a software tune that allows you to disable it. Essentially this is how I feel: if you need auto rev matching you shouldn't be driving a manual, just get the double clutch auto if available. But to each their own
Have you tried auto rev match? Just curious if you just don't like the idea or you have tried and don't like it. I swear by it in my gt4. Of course dual clutch and crazy fast automatics are the future, but might as well enjoy the most advanced manual for now. I see your point, rev match shouldn't be forced on you, should be easy to turn off. (Or easy to turn on in my case). I went with a dsg golf r.
Yeah I'm not a fan. Its like when I drive my girlfriend's automatic. Feels wrong for a while. I find it takes the connection away from you as a driver. No rev matching, no heel-toe ect. Its almost an automatic with a clutch. But yeah I could live with it if you could just turn it off.
I have a GTI and my wife has a base model Focus. The interior in her Focus definitely sucks. As a GTI fanboy though, i always thought the R lacked the funky spirit of the GTI - and its AWD system isnt even very good. If you're going to make a powerful, AWD hot hatch, do it like Ford with the RS - bonkers and fun. Way cooler car than the R for sure.
It depends what you are looking for. I'm in my 50s and the Focus just felt like a total Pikey's car. I'm very happy with my Golf R. And with the Akrapovic exhaust it has a great soundtrack that I can turn up or down
"It feels really planted and not that exciting "... Because you are not losing control!!
Love my RS...My favorite daily to date. Great in the canyons even ag
I wonder what a Golf R with a Stage 2 HPFP tune would do against it. 345hp and 350tq vs 350hp 350tq very close.
Hey guess what most seats have? Adjustable controls. Dont do that to my car bb. You know interior exterior powertrain awd system etc etc.. just better better. And you love it. Also I have a 2018 st and I dont get what people say about the turning radius. To me it's just fine if not better than most other dailies I've had. One being the b5 s4.👀🤷♂️
Great review!
I feel like I just watched a National Geographic documentary
your german accent had me dying lol. great video. the nice guy in me wants the R the rebel in me wants the RS. they both look good but the RS is soooo effin sexy.
drepop803 lol. I feel like someone who speaks German should speak up and let me know how bad that accent really was. Haha
E46 Reviews with T.H. haha surprised no one mentioned it yet.
i like the exhaust sounds good from factory jus add dp and stage 1 tune and it will be 10000 better and be lowder but not to loud the focus rs can be to loud with exhaust but sounds perfect from factory.. u dont need to do much if anything to focus rs the golf r needs coilovers exhaust intake tune etc for me where the focus rs is litterally perfect from factory and drives so much better handles like on rails
GOLF R!!! ELEGANCE AND SOFISTICATION
Does the Golf Have the Adaptive suspension upgrade? If it doesnt this isnt a fair comparison
God I love those seats. I almost bought one of these and test drove one but it was just too small for me.
My grandson just been told that his GTI needs a new engine due to cam-chain snap. NZ$15k.
Love the RS. Pitty the dealers in So Cal wanted SO much over sticker. My dealer had 3 side by side in the showroom and for good reason they were $$,$$$ kind of money marked up.
Take it over an S. T. I.? Oh you're going to get in trouble from the Internet on that one! Lol. But I fully agree with you. 😊
+Colin Caissie I know I am lol. It's just so fun though! Also I like the fact that it's NOT an STI.
292 hp; maybe they chose to keep it under 300hp for the sake of insurance rates?
You MIGHT take it over an STI!? I Wouldn't even have to think about it.
Did you like new STI better you drove it together with type r
Why stick shift and not dsg/dct?
The Golf has that little bit of responsibility that someone hopelessly irresponsible like myself needs. I WANT the RS but I also don't want to kill myself and perhaps others. I will keep pushing beyond all reason and the RS will keep pushing me to do so right up until it's exceptional ability runs out and so does the road. The Golf on the other hand will push me right up to that limit then place a warm hand on my shoulder in the form of understeer and pull me back from the brink before my life ends.
I could be more of a responsible driver but that's just not who I am or who I want to be. I want to own the RS and let it thrill me for the same reasons as was mentioned in this review, but I want to continue driving like a madman more. So I'm buying the Golf. I know I'll see an RS out there and think deep down that I could be driving that and be even more thrilled than I am with the Golf, but that's silly because most likely I'd be dead instead.
I'm just not a responsible driver and in reality, I never want to be. Thus the golf is for me.
Trust me, you will get bored of the Golf R unfortunately. I don't think you're ready for one any time soon by the sounds of it. Me included!
Actually, the Focus RS is not what I'd describe as a dangerous feeling car but is actually a fun one with quite a character and like all modern cars over the last few years, they're still much safer feeling than the "older" type cars from 10+ years ago. I would go out and ask for a test drive as soon as you can in a mk 3 Focus RS.
I used to borrow my mum's Ford Escort popular and that thing often tried to kill me but it was never boring lol! I can assure you that the RS is not like this! If you did happen to go out and test drive a Focus RS, try the standard and also the 'Edition". You get a better ride without the frustrating safety nannies you get with the Golf R which give the feeling that they're pushing you back, rather than the car wanting to push forward. This characteristic of the car isn't exactly fun and this to me doesn't represent a true feeling of being in a fun hot hatch. Serious and fast, yes and if that's what you like, then that's very good.
The RS is still a responsible persons car but don't let others' decisions steer your decision making.
In the end, you are the decider.
Simply put, if you can drive, you are a responsible adult whatever age.
Come on VW... pull your fingers out and give us the golf everyone wants to see... a Golf RS.
They cant they dont know how to make a solid fast engine without that shitty egr valves, noisy tappets, and sludge everywhere 😂😂
Which road is this? Is this Toronto?
Where were the roads you were driving on?
Golf R's biggest problem isn't that VW didn't go all out, it's that they couldn't. Ford don't have Audi, VW do
the mk7.5 golf r interior is nicer but the focus rs drives and handlesnway better than the golf r way more fun to drive than the golf r in everyway
If you get excited about the looks of a Focus, even the RS, then I am sorry to say that your standards of automotive beauty are extremely low. At least the VW isn't trying to be something it is not. These are economy car chassis's, slapping on some vents and wings doesn't transform them, just like when you see some folks trying "pimp" other mundane rides, it just look ridiculous. To me it is like putting lipstick on a pig, at the end of the day it is still a pig.
Oh so you "heard that it falls apart on track"? What quality reporting! Had you bothered to do a little research, you would find there are plenty of actual track tests that beg to differ with "what you heard". The main issue with the VW (other than the front weight bias all these cars have) is the tires, and again VW compromised some track performance for real world practicality. And rightly so, because these are intended to be daily drivers, not track toys. Putting cup 2 tires on a hatchback is idiotic.
What is fun for an afternoon is not always better to live with day after day, and year after year. I have no doubt the Focus has a more visceral driving experience, but that can get tiring and annoying when you spend the majority of your time slogging around in traffic with your mother-in-law and kids in the back.
The VW is the much better real world practical family car for a grown up auto enthusiast. Trust me, as a family man that tried to use an EVO 8 as a daily driver/track car, only then can you appreciate the compromises that VW made with the Golf R. I often felt ridiculous driving the EVO, I told myself that I didn't care and that it was worth it for those rare moments when you could let it hang out a bit, but the truth is you do care, and the performance/comfort compromises are not worth it for a daily. I have seen the most hard core enthusiast succumb to this reality.
Plus we already have a somewhat practical four door with a great visceral driving experience (with torque vectoring), it was called the EVO. With the same tires I bet an EVO would be every bit as good if not better, and it is a lot cheaper with proven reliability. But for me, if I want a good looking visceral driving experience I will buy a real sports car, but if I want a fun daily driver that can scratch that occasional performance itch and not make me feel embarrassed to be seen in it, the Golf R is the better choice here.
BTW, there are many reports that when the RS is driven on a track at the limit it also understeers badly like the front heavy FWD economy car it ultimately is, apparently those torque vectoring differentials can only do so much, or they didn't get it sorted out as well as Mitsubishi did? Although if you went in way to hot with the EVO it would understeer also, nothing beats a purpose built well balanced chassis. Also they say those fancy differentials overheat after only a couple of laps and you are left with essentially a $50K Focus ST.
The Ford Focus rs FEELS more exciting on the road. If you drive them both back to back the ford feels better, more engaging, and more exciting. As for the track test. That is coming. I will be testing these two back to back on the track. And for the styling. I think the ford has the performance to back it up. 350 hp and a sophisticated torque vectoring drivetrain.
Also the focus RS IS designed to be a track toy. It has a "drift mode" and a "race mode" highly unlikely that ford intended those modes to be used while going out to grab a coffee in the morning.
I am sure it does, apparently you did not read fully my comments.
If you want a track toy, a 3500 lb front heavy four door hatchback is far from the best choice. Those fancy diffs are a band aid trying to overcome the inherent shortcomings of a poorly balanced over weight chassis of an economy car. They only help so much, add weight, complexity, and apparently over heat after only a couple of laps.
It is more of a poser track toy, It won't hold up well to serious track use, if you want a real track toy get a well balanced sports car. These cars were intended to be practical daily drivers that could handle occasional track use. In that regard the VW is the better balanced compromise, the Ford is to gimmicky. I am sure for a short test drive it feels more exciting, but in the long run the VW is still the better choice.
Personally I would buy a new base GTI with PP ($25K new) and a used Porsche Cayman or Boxster for a weekend/track toy. You could easily get both for the cost of a new Focus RS and have a much better fun daily and a dedicated track toy. And if you break your toy playing too rough you still have your daily.
+Eric Michel I actually didn't see the whole original comment. It didn't load on my phone. You are right about the Evo. It is a very good car. And I don't disagree about long term usability being an issue in these hardened sporty hatchbacks. As I said I will be trying both on the track back to back. So I will report on how they behave at the limit. I'm interested to see how the chassis balance of each creates its own unique driving experience. And the "embarrassment" factor is 100% up to the individual.
They are both great cars….. we all like different brands, so just buy the car that you like & not the car that others say you should buy…
i thing ford is the best car at this time.it worth the money
3 years later, one of these cars is still made, one isn't. VW wins...
Slightly less performance is a fair swap for the increase in absolutely everything else...then you £700 APR Stage 1 tune it to 360hp...Golf R is an exceptional everyday drive. Potter along at 42mpg with nobody bothering you and then chase Porsches. A Caterham is a much better track car but it would kill you every day.
Having owned the Focus ST and compromising on cabin space and horrible Microsoft sync system....I went with the Golf R DSG. Basically in my opinion the RS is a great track car... But how often are you going to run it!!!!! Plus I out grew the giant wing era and cookie cutter gimmicks like "Drift Mode".
+Adam Pens if either of these were mine I would be running them at the track and autocross quite often. So focus RS would be my choice