RS just place last in comparison test in the April 2017 issue. They praised the RS for the same reason you did and they killed it on the ride quality. The said it rides like a dump truck and said the RS is not a true drivers car, but its a tremendous performance car. And I totally agree
Exactly! I would love for you to do a review of the 2017 Volvo V60/S60 Polestar. Your high quality reviews are hands down the best on not only on TH-cam, but the entire web. I own a 16 V60 Polestar and would love to hear what you think.
A lot of people don't know this, but the seats actually do fold flat and the front seats can be pretty far back. The trick is to lift bottom of the back seats up and take the headrests out. There's a spot for the headrests in the back seats where rear passenger feet go. Other than that, great video!
@@poolplexer : I can comment when I decide to do it, and you cannot stop me, you cannot convince me, you cannot talk me out of it, you cannot talk me into something else, ond so on. I have my freedom to do whatever I decide to do, and nobody can stop me, not even you. I am older than you think, I am at the age of being a legal parent or guardian. Now scram, SlapKFD.
I test drove a 17' STI, 17' Golf R and a 17' Focus RS and I bought the Focus RS! Was the most exciting to drive of the three to me and the interior isn't nearly as tragic as people say. But hey, different strokes for different folks; it tickles my fancy and that's all that matters! Cheers!
I test drove 17 sti 17 type r golf r cam SS and bought the RS as well. drove 58xxx miles in 2 years, and I daily 140mph btw school and work, car been to big bear 7 times, been in sand, mud, shit just goes, and tracked 2x. except a lot of paint chips car been amazing.
I know this is extremely out of the date/time continuum, but after watching this all I could think of were the issues that he brought up about the negatives were just about all resolved in the '17 model year cars with the RS2 package. Having owned said model and then reading up on all the goodies I took for granted over the original '16 cars like this one reviewed, I can agree to the detractions brought up in the video and happily say I never experienced them. So for whatever the non-binding two cents of a youtube commentor is worth, the RS is a great car and definite contender for this segment but only if you go '17 and later and RS2 package.
Yep, they made the shocks a ton better in late 17. Sucks because everyone still has the first impressions. My '18 is pretty hot-hatch-normal for ride quality
They only changed the springs AFAIK, and then the dampers in 2018. So essentially if you just buy aftermarket suspension your 2016 will be better, or go buy stock 2018 and it'll be the same
I was able to take an RS on an extended test drive, I put the car in sport mode, kept the suspension in sport and didn’t hit the suspension button and the car rode way smoother than my Focus ST. I felt it to be super comfortable. When hating the suspension button to put it in the more aggressive dampening, the ride is definitely more bouncy and not comfortable, but when in normal suspension setting, it honestly rides great and the quality is really comfortable.
Thank you for the honest opinion in this review. I contacted TRI and donated $200 as I know all too well the issues Veterans face when they separate from the service, as I am one myself. Thank you for supporting a great cause and I will continue to tune in for future reviews.
+jay25f Thanks for helping them out, its a cool thing they are doing and helping people. Appreciate it. And those who do service deserve much more credit.
Been daily my RS now for 3 years! I dont really get the bad ride talk (in soft mode), it's hard yes but i think this kind of car should be. I am european tho so we are used to a hard low ride on our hatchbacks and our regular sedan cars dont drive like a floating Buick yacht. Never had any problem with the car in 3 years! Only been in for regular services and that i can not say about any other car i have had. Well it is time for me to let it go soon but i will remember it as the most reliable car i ever had! And it's a FORD!?! to me thats amazing. I didnt think that when buying it thats for sure.
Yeah... it's a $40k car for a reason, not for the interior. Sad to see you comment like this because it's pretty common sense with any history of cars derived from lessers like your WRX/STI, Evos, etc. You are paying for that performance and handling. Yeah, gas pedal, you got it, i'm with you on that, and yes aftermarket fixed it already. Not sure what type of ride you're looking for as things only get crazy in Track mode. Car is perfectly livable to "most" people who buy these cars I'd imagine, no reason to scare away people for no reason. You are falling into the same trap the big names in reviews do. You're asking for a lot more for unnecessary things like an even better interior, thus driving the cost up even more. You can't price this thing up in the $50K mark, driving this level of performance away from another set of people. And the regular focus interior feels better than a $20k car out of the box. The interior is super quiet, especially when you take the whole literally 2 seconds to disable the fake noises. If anything, the exhaust is too quiet overall on the car. Interior doesn't make a performance car "feel" special. It's driving that does, and this car delivers that in spades. The Recaro seats are great, i'm over 6' tall. The steering wheel feels great, and has great feedback. Shifter and clutch, great. Perhaps you're too jaded driving cars far more expensive than this. But you need to realign your baselines and perspectives. Don't be afraid to give credit where it's due, and sit back and think about things more for establishing a proper and realistic baseline where things should be compared to. The car lives to the hype, and to many of it's owners, beyond. It is what it is, and Ford gave a great product. There are not many cars as usable as this everyday that has the level of performance it has. I'll agree with others that there are few, if any cars that are faster than this thing on your common backroad.
Glad to see you like it and I'm sure the positives far outweigh the negatives. I don't think they are complaining so much as expressing an awareness of what the car is and is not. But the report that the driving position sucks is crucial - very few reviewers will address this and it's core to any sports car, and/or one to sit in for long. Perhaps it doesn't bother you so much because you're taller. And the heat/boost issues that have to be managed electronically mean that while it may be faster (for a while) it can't keep that level of performance up for very long, I reckon. It's a goofy segment where a subaru or evo is "the standard"...imagine if Honda circa '99 had dabbled in rally and made an AWD hot hatch. Or if Ford had designed focus to fully accommodate AWD platform from get-go.... we would likely be in a bit different game now.
+jrzez Its more about leveling the expectations about the limitations of the car. At the press event the American Product planner got out of the Mazda3 with me and straight up said they are benchmarking it for the NEW focus. Its just a dated setup compared to the other C segment cars, thats a reality. Does that mean its bad? No. Veloster owners dont like hearing it either. Credit was given all through out the video on what they were able to do I agree with all your points. But that does not mean the car gets a pass on the negatives because of it. This is not a car for everyone for sure thats why the final thoughts are dont order one without driving it first, namely if you have your expectations set higher. As far as fixing pedals, disabling digi sound, again its a pointed at Ford... Fix it and give owners a way of disabling without modding car. Your comment was very sorted btw, thanks.
jrzez You have to consider that $40k usually gets you better quality, you can get a brand new Lexus ISF for $40k. Yeah, I understand that this is performance oriented and it's sort of in the same vein as shitting on a Lotus for not being comfortable, but it's a suped up economy car that lacks elements that hurt its daily driver use (which is what most people buy a Ford Focus for) as well as its track capability. I'm young, and even I wouldn't be down for those seats with zero adjustability, and for that price you shouldn't get a throttle pedal that moves around like wacky waving inflatable tube man. Besides, most of his negative comments on the interior were driver centric, and since its marketed as a drivers car they could afford to make the interior cater to the driver more. It wasn't like SG harped on baby seats or rear DVD screens or w/e.
I too think U missed a crucial point There is nothing like a Focus RS in US, sure 1 can say there is Golf R,there is STi, there is EVO X, but frankly nothing convinced me as much as the RS despite its stupid ride quality and fake noises and actually a good interior that felt better than a lot of $40k cars at this price point, except for maybe Golf R, some Acuras etc The RS is a car for some1 special, its not for every 1, its not at all easy on the owner, it demands some skill as well for 40k U can get a super loaded SS or a V6 RS which I see as best alternatives to FoRS, but they dont have 4 doors, no way nearly as refined, pathetic to see out, See nothing is perfect, and somethings are over perfect(Golf 7R) The RS I think is an imperfect drivers car, thats special because not every 1 wud own it but the hardcore ones ONLY
I don't think other reviewers were dishonest about their enthusiasm for the RS. I just think they spent most of their time driving the RS where it is awesome: On track and in the mountains. +jrzez I like your perspectives, and as an owner with 3k miles on his RS, I agree with most of them. In particular, I agree with your mindset that, like an Evo or an STI, the Focus RS isn't a car you buy because you want a luxurious interior that makes you feel special and coddled. (That's the Golf R!) Regardless, the interior still feels well put together, of good quality, and with money spent on all the things which make the driver happy: seats, steering wheel, shifter. +savagegeese Speaking of those Recaro seats and the way the leading edge of the seat cushion digs into your thighs, I had the same complaint when I bought the car. However, after a few months they've broken-in and shaped to my legs, and I now find them very comfortable and supporting. I have no problem doing 8 hour drives in them. In fact, the majority of owners seem very happy with the seats, which is a relief considering how little adjustability they have. I agree with you that the seats could go a little lower in the car. I think the best points of this review are how the RS is most fun when really driven hard but yet there are real concerns about how the car will deal with the rigors of the track, considering its cooling and camber limitations. (I haven't gotten mine on a track yet.) I also completely agree that the suspension is unnecessarily hard, even in Normal mode, and other sporting cars manage better rides with just as impressive handling. I'm tempted to find a better ride-and-handling balance in the aftermarket because I agree Ford missed here. For me, there are two areas where the RS really shines. The first is the steering quickness: I love how little steering input I need to make the RS dive into corners, and how the RS has the precision of handling to match that quick rack. There is an aura of sport and agility imbued in the RS just from its steering personality. The second is the AWD torque vectoring and how it gives the RS multiple distinct different personalities depending on the mode. The car feels incredibly neutral on-power in Track mode, which is very confidence inspiring and let's you take corners are incredible speeds. Then, in Drift mode, the RS feels curiously nimble and very over-vectored, but provides a whole different fun game for you to play behind the wheel: How much steering angle can I replace in this corner with throttle/torque-vectoring? The answer is quite a bit! The RS makes my giggle and laugh, and I think it is a little misleading to say it drives like a RWD car, because there is no other car I've driven (I'm piloted the Evo X and GT-R) that so aggressively and obviously routes power to affect its handling. Thanks for the review! If anyone wants to see my in-depth thoughts about the RS, I have posts here: steeringcolumn.kinja.com/long-term-2016-ford-focus-rs-1783790121 steeringcolumn.kinja.com/comparison-2016-ford-focus-rs-2016-vw-golf-r-2016-su-1785284597 steeringcolumn.kinja.com/long-term-update-2016-ford-focus-rs-1786785746
+Abendschein No other hatch requires the absurd amount of steps to fold seats down psuedo flat. Even then its still not flat as cargo floor is still higher because styrofoam tray.
Pseudo flat? Other than the cargo height difference, it's pretty flat. Pseudo flat would be what you did here. Also, it's not a lot of steps. The only annoying part is taking the headrests out. Even then it takes less than 30 seconds. Which I do agree need a better place to go. In the Mazda 3 hatches you pull them out and there's a place specifically for them.
Love your videos, but Abendschein is right. The seats do fold flat... certainly enough to call it "flat" when done correctly. Not a huge deal, but you did miss that detail, and it kind of throws your criticism out the window.
Focus RS really wasn't meant for the track, they never were. There are very few cars in the world that can keep up with a Focus RS in the mountain twisties.
If the RS is "just a focus", then the STi is "just an impreza" and the evo is "just a lancer". I traded in a 2013 Focus ST for an RS and it feels (and sounds) like a very different car. (and I love it). That said, it is still a hatch, not a true sports car which is why I'm saving for a Lotus. :)
That would be true if the Evo and the STi weren't designed and created for race application. Nothing is retrofit on the Evo or STi...but most of the good bits on the RS are...it was built purely for market competition, not race competition (which is where the Mitsubishi Evolution and Subaru WRX STi come from).
@@iTz_FLAwL3zZ Do you still have the RS? I have an 18 F150 and unfortunately probably won't ever own a RS, but I absolutely love them. Break my neck every time one passes me. Do you still like it?
@jakeSINbernhard. I traded my 14' ST1 for my now 16' RS2 and I have 0 regrets. Occasionally I want a little more power, but overall it's the perfect car imo.
@@dojyr3130 I went from a 2014 focus st2 to a 2017 focus rs. I was majorly dissapointed that there's hardly any differences in the interior, but i do love my rs. I feel like the st had more personality( i think that's due to the fact that my st was full bolt ons and had a catless downpipe) but the power delivery and cornering in the rs is far superior. After a tune, an intake and exhaust, the rs has definitely come closer to the spirit of the st, and much much faster lol. Since I'm short (5'7) i feel like the rs has a proper seat height. I've sat in cars with lower seats and i feel like I'm trapped in a bucket. Now i gotta get the wife a tundra and I'll be completely content with my vehicles haha.
I suspect that the muffler valve is to close off that port at low RPM to decrease pipe diameter and increase torque. At higher RPM it will open the valve. The idea is having two effective diameters for the exhaust system. Small diameter at low RPM and high diameter at high RPM.
Great review. You are one of the first reviewers that didn't just regurgitate facts and figures of the car's abilities. I loved how you gave the track perspective as well as on road use perspective. Keep up the great work
You can turn off the sport mode suspension by pressing the left lever button in track mode! You receive the same performance boost and with a comfortable ride quality.
"bumpy" roads made this reviewer "grumpy". Who cares what others think of you? A car is visceral and utilitarian simultaneously. The joy is being able to transition from one to the other as needed. The RS meets that criteria for me. Nonetheless, very in-depth review. Thank you for taking the time to make this video.
I just test drove a '17 on the 405 FWY last weekend & I thought the ride quality was just fine? Idk, maybe it's just me but I loved the car, however I don't love the prices on them.
Just wanted to say thanks for a great review!! It's fantastic to see a comprehensive review that is forthright about some of the very real shortcomings of this car, whilst acknowledging its many strengths. I did buy the car sight unseen, and to be honest, I'm glad I did. Because if I'd taken it for a test drive I would have baulked at how hard the car is. In Australia we have a lot of course chip rads, and on our first drive, my wife and I were actually talking about packing earplugs in the glove box. The engine felt tight as hell and didn't seem all that keen to rev. The car felt wooden, stiff and like it was on stilts. But you know what? I don't know whether it is just getting used to it, but after about 1000km, the whole thing loosens up. The car just seems to come together, and I am absolutely loving it. Oh, and I was one of the "lucky" ones that got the old Microsoft Sync 2 version. I guess it's probably a case of not knowing what you're missing, but I have found it to be user friendly and intuitive, if a little dated in appearance. But the seating position really is "shit"! Too high, although the optional Recaro racing seats don't seem to have the under thigh issues that the standard Recaros shown in the video have. I fact the seats are fantastic, but you do sit way too high. The sound system is absolutely dreadful. In Australia we don't get any options other than the forged rims (which are actually the ones shown in the video) which come with the Cup 2 tyres - more on this later. As a result of this lack of options, the standard issue in Australia does not have the sub-woofer installed in the boot (trunk to you Americans). This means that there is a completely pointless foam floor under the carpet in the rear that serves no purpose other than to waste boot space. Removing this floor liberates space, both in depth and front to back width, but means that the carpet no longer fully covers the boot floor. This is alleviated somewhat by buying a rear floor liner (and I'm glad I did after a growler of beer leaked all over the place) but it's still a disappointing and pointless oversight that wastes interior space for no good reason. The lack of subwoofer leaves the stereo system sounding extremely flat, and no amount of audio adjustment helps this most underwhelming part of the whole package. As mentioned, the forged alloy/Cup 2 wheel/tyre option is the only one available in Australia (other than colour) and I went for this option mainly because the black forged alloys look far superior than the standard wheels which are finished in silver. I must disagree that you don't want the Cup 2 tyres for the road, they are EPIC! The grip afforded by them in combination with the AWD and torque vectoring system is simply astounding, and I fully intend to replace them, like for like, once they wear out. This thing defies physics in tight turns and, frankly, anyone who fully exploits the handling of the car with these tyres on a public road has a death wish and ought to be locked up. The car sends drive rearwards right at the point that front end grip is running out, and you can feel drive simultaneously being sent to the outside rear wheel while the torque vectoring grabs the inside front brake, tightening your cornering line. It takes a little getting used to, but once you do, you can lean on this car through corners in a way that is hugely confidence inspiring and that is really communicative. I'm continually amazed that a gar with 60% weight overt the front axle feels so balanced and RWD. Torque steer is noticeable in straight lines but, counter intuitively, dissipates the harder and with more steering lock you go into a corner. I optioned the "Magnetic" grey metallic and it's a lovely colour. Paint application appears to be generous but there is a noticeable and disappointing "orange peel" in the finish. This is somewhat alleviated by the colour, metallic and the application of an aftermarket protectant coating. I'd agree that the car doesn't really "special" or different to a more prosaic Focus, and I reckon I have had exactly zero people take a second look at it in six weeks of ownership. All in all I'm really pleased with the purchase. Yes, a Golf R of similar price beats the RS hands down for fit, finish and presentation. But when you're up for a good time.... ... good god!
Fun fact about those worried about cargo space, the back seats can actually be put down all the way (for a somewhat flat surface). Simply remove the headrests, pull up where one sits (to release it), and boom!
Idk man. I’ve just bought the 2018 model and I love it. Before that I’ve owned an 03 Celica, a 2015 fiesta ST, and a 2015 STi. The RS is definitely my favourite so far. About the stif ride, I don’t really mind. All my cars have been pretty stiff and I haven’t noticed that much difference with this one. Really standard for me.
@@gregblack8550 I just might sell it in the coming months and the idea saddens me a little. I haven’t changed my mind so far and doubt I will. I love this car.
I just found your channel. I'm so glad that someone is doing honest, critical reviews. I think most cars are made with a target audience in mind and you seem to point that out and tell us if we aren't that audience then the car may not be for us. I applaud this treatment and you high quality production work. Keep up the awesomeness!
I test drove a 2017 Focus RS and the acceleration blew my mind. If you want a hatch/hot 4 that is faster you are entering AMG and Audi territory. The car handled like it was on rails. I have also read/watched multiple reviews praising the handling. I guess that is how subjective reviews of any type can be. In fact I liked the ride/handling and acceleration so much. I bought the car. :)
@AZ Niteforce cool story kid. I've been in both thankfully, and it truly looks like for went to autozone to get their gauges, interior is all plastic fuck that at 40k? Lol
Unless you lookimg to get into a 2018 which is stupid unless you got bucksm only because theres only 500 red and 500 blue so its more rare compaired to many makes
*Loved* the attention to tech details in this review and not just constant handies back and forth all day screaming about how life changing this car is.
I’ve driven a srt4 neon for 19 years. I just bought a 2018 limited edition racer red. This is the first car in 19 years that I would trade the neon for…..not really I’m keeping the neon as well.
I own a 2016 RS and love it more as time goes on. BUT… the most important part of this video is the very end, do a longer than usual test drive with it before buying. That ride is not for everyone and it can be brutal for daily driving, especially in the city. I drive my girl’s VW Tiguan for anything more than 45 minutes of “normal” driving so I’ve found this car is best enjoyed in short bursts specifically when you wanna smash it. Drive it that often on the right roads and it’s always a special experience. Never selling mine.
Tyres. After using the Michelin Sport 4s at the UK tyre setting of 41 psi front and 38 psi rear I suffer less bouncy suspension. Edit - I've added a LSD on the front and now have great front end control when accelerating. Edit2: the recommended tyre pressure for the street is not 46PSI!!! It is 41psi front and 38psi rear. If you use 46psi, it'll be very bouncy
I plan on buying the Michelin Sport 4S tires with BBS wheels for my 14' Focus ST. Do you recommend these tires with aftermarket coilovers? Currently use 18" Continental DSW 06 tires and they do not compliment my suspension, in which I've painstakingly adjusted the ride height and dampening settings just right.
Great review as always. The production quality is always exceptional. Thanks for sharing the information about the charity, it was my pleasure to make a donation to such a cause.
I thought I had moved on, but this review really awoke my passion for this car again. I've driven a Focus ST for two years, yet this car was always the "goal for me"... but now idk. So much time has passed. I'm finally in a place to purchase an RS, but it doesn't seem worth it anymore. Compared to newer cars, it seems dated. Idk if having a car payment for the same platform for 2 more wheels spinning and 100+ hp is worth it anymore payment wise. Emotionally, I feel like I'm missing out tho
Savagegeese. My hat is off to you sir. I have been a sports car/70s era muscle car fan for most of my 39 year long life. In that time and space, I have never seen a more entertaining, intelligent, and unbiased review of automobiles. Everything you make is gold. If you have a Patreon account, I would be happy to pay a monthly prescription for extra content.
I love this car review. I really want this car a lot, but you really pointed out key points I never would have checked before I bought it. Personally I don't mind about the bumpy ride or the exhaust sounds. But this was an amazing in depth review and really made me recognize certain things I would need to do if I owned this car.
Comming from Civic TypeR EP3 I would say that RS is better in every way. More power, superior handling, confidence inspiring, quieter interior, louder exterior. The most important thing to me is that it feels so easy to control. Even flat out on the wide corner you can go sideways in normal drive mode and it lets you slide as long as you want. It's pure fun. The track suspension setting is realy harsh I got to admit. Outside the track I would stick to normal/sport/drift mode. Those above offer plenty support and I'm pretty sure you won't feel like you lose control at any point. Interior in EU version has better Recaro seats than that in this video but even those are comfy and offer great support. The dash is a bit plastiky but it's ergonomic and has everything you may need. Epic car. It's a shame it has been discontinued.
Thanks for the vid and 'real world' edge and appreciate the tech/mechanics observations, too. Gotta say, though, even some of your praises have a tone of "I hate it" haha. I find the front seat awesome! The passenger is definitely too high though. I've a 2017 RS2 and really like it a lot. You said it's a negative thing that it's not "special" when just driving it in a non-spirited way, which is your bias. My bias is that it's a wolf in sheep's clothing and I like the design. ..well, the front end is no sleeper, though. However, I get several thumbs up from strangers every week...sometimes one a day or a few a day. My RS jumps when I say jump and no wheel-hop and it just sticks to the road. It's my daily driver. I do wish it had a better turning radius though and a smaller diameter steering wheel...I agree with you there. Regarding the stiff suspension, the down side is well, stiff and some might feel harsh and the upside is, a very competent handling that is solid and ready for the next bump without mushy softness. Is this car for everyone? Of course not. The Recaro seats don't really fit obese people, which the USA isn't all too lacking of. The RS has a lot and is a lotta bang for the buck. I test drove the Golf R and no available heated steering wheel, is also AWD but is front-wheel drive bias, which lends to oversteering into the corners vs the RS not. The exhaust is great and pops
damn SG that intro was something that coulda been the commercial for the RS! love the cinematography and style of your videos, you got your own vibe going and I respect it. Will keep posted for more!
Should we settle for the Focus RS, or wait for a revival of the Probe GT, designed by Mazda ? Of course for winter and family errands, I would have a GLC43.
6:20 When he said neon SRT4 I got so much nostalgia. Just gave mine away to a good home as I bought a new car a few weeks ago. Needed something a little more reliable, but man do I gotta say, I loved my old SRT4, Hell of a first car :) Thanks for the nostalgia, subbed :)
I found your channel a few weeks ago and I'm making my way through all the reviews. You are brutality honest with the pros and cons to the point where the viewer has to make the decision. Great f'ing job!
Savagegeese .. your videos are fantastic I have learned a lot listening to them. I had an RS and just sold it to buy a Golf R or an Audi S3 after test driving the golf and Audi I am thinking of buying another RS the ride is a bit harsh especially with the dampers in sport mode, however the residual values are always good on RS's.
Good grief dude, this is the best Ford Focus RS review out there. Thanks for making it and taking the time to inform us on the real world everyday Ford Focus RS.
I find the review a bit odd, the ride is slated, however you go on to say its great on track and unbelievable on the road. Thats why it is firm. Then you say you feel nothing driving it, after saying the drive is unbelievable...feel nothing as built on an economy platform, what does the platform matter? If it performs well it is good and it does perform well. I own a 2017 RS and dont mind the ride....in normal mode at least. I used to have a 2009 Audi S3 and that really did have a brittle ride, but you got nothing back in return that had poor handling. In comparison the RS is pin sharp.
The problem with the RS on the street is that it's too competent to be fun at legal speeds. On a empty back road with no traffic it is a riot, but for day to day stuff the ride quality and crossover driving position kill the fun. Note: They fixed the damping rates starting with mid 2017 production dates, which likely fixed the main ride quality issue. More Stiff =\ more performance
I had mine for 80000 miles from 1mile in showroom. No other car I had balls to go 170mph every week for last 4 years, now I have a gt4 and i drive 10times faster in RS everywhere than the gt4 simply it makes you a pro driver. Engine was amazing 0 issues M520 package. 0 problems I still cry why I sold it.
Spend some time reading about this car before uttering half-truths. The Focus RS has digitally controlled assymetric all wheel drive. It features a GKN Twinster rear drive unit over-geared by 1.2 per cent relative to the front wheels. And you reckon that is unsophisticated?
Completely incorrect. It has no rear differential, it has digitally controlled clutches to each rear axle. A yaw sensor and other inputs determine the degree of clutch engagement. It is so effective that Mercedes and Audi are engineering the GKN Twinster into some of their models as we speak.
+Pete's Channel Symantecs, RDU, Diff, its still a drive unit and Yes I agree as said in video completely on demand system, is able to transfer power to each wheel using hydrolic clutches in rear based on sensor data. Not trying to argue on it and dont disagree with you
just fyi.. and i've seen this numerous times now... the rear seats fold FLAT. You lift up the seat bottom, TAKE OUT THE REAR HEADRESTS and the seats will fold FLAT like a ford escape.. It's actually probably 20% more room due to this.. AND you front seats can still fit me(6'0") where I normally sit, which is almost all the way back.
About to pick up a low miles 2017- they were a value for money when new at 40k, but now that the hype has died they're a steal for mid 20's! Also for some of us an understated drivers car is waaaaay better than looking like we belong in the "flashy Camaro or mustang that I rev but never actually drive" club.
You're my new favorite reviewer. You point out gripes no one else mentions but are all the things I would notice, and would bug me, if I drove it. Keep speaking your truth. Thank you.
Where was this video when I was gaga over this car in 2016? Only seeing this now. Got to test drive one just a few years ago. As I watch this now I'm laughing out loud at all the negative points. 100% accurate and my sentiments exactly. Love the channel. Cheers!
Dear Mr. Savagegeese, You own an apology to the Focus RS and I kindly request that you do so on your channel. I watched your review and almost did not buy the RS myself because of you. Now, after 10 000 miles of ownership, I think that you were completely wrong. In order to counterbalance the hype around the car, you decided to complain about every single thing you possible could, presenting the RS as a terrible car. The drive shaft was too small, the engine was from a mustang, the interior was cheap, the car was too stiff (I bet you had the suspension in track mode most of the time), etc. The RS is an iconic car, we never had one in US and now that FORD brought it over, let’s celebrate it for what it is, a 40k USD Focus modified for performance 1st, comfort 2nd by the manufacturer. And, I am ok with it, because I can drive my RS like I would my Miata on a back road, still fit a baby sit in the back, and safely drive during a snowstorm with proper tires. Your review reminded me of those food critics who happily complain about a meal prepared by a world-renowned chef while they can barely boil an egg themselves. FORD engineering had to make some compromises, but they made a car for those who love to drive, for those who smile when they nail a nice downshift with a heel and toe, the RS rewards that with a crackle and pop. Is it perfect? No. However, it is much better than what you portrayed it to be. Please, do not be one of those incapable food critics, do the RS justice.
If you're buying a car with 350bhp, 4 wheel drive that pops and bangs on over run, the seats folding flat is literally the last thing you should be arsed about. I mean yeah its a thorough review, but RS's will be bought by a specific type of person for a specific type type of job. No one ever bought a Sierra RS Cosworth and said, well the rear visibility is poor because of the rear spoiler.
I watched all your videos and I am grateful that someone who is doing car reviews is daring to do it honestly. So big respect to you! I hope you can continue it like this. I was waiting for this review, because I couldn't find myself in the reviews of the media. I've driven 3 different Focus RS to be sure of my explanation here below, so it is not a coincidence. I was shopping for a Focus RS myself but was hugely disappointed. Mainly because I want to compare it with a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (and in lesser extend the Subaru WRX STi). I owned both a EVO VI RS2 and VIII MR RS and drove them for 5-6 years. You ticked the notes right on the suspension part, however I cannot agree on the drivetrain part. Here is where Ford fails big time. My main issues are: - as the car is mainly FWD, it pulls massively to the left/right. My last test was a bit better than the first two cars I've driven.. - when you try left foot braking, the RWD disconnects for a fraction of second, however if at that moment you're in the middle of a drift the car will push you immediately in understeer. Not fun! I'm trying to explain. Maybe you can compare it to your and Turboswki's findings. Haldex system as found on the Volkswagen products are no fun. Ford has taken it differently. The have a 100% limited slip differential at the rear with a different "transmission" than the front differential. With this system in place, Ford let's the rear differential run 20% faster than the front wheels. Normally that would be insane: your tires would wear like crazy because the rear end would push the front wheels. However on the Focus RS, the rear wheels are not connected to the diff, at least not as long the clutch doesn't operate. So if you're attacking the corners then the electronics are engaging and releasing the clutch all the time. Probably only for the outer-side wheel.. so on the moment when you are left foot braking and on the same time giving throttle, then the clutches would accelerate the wheel whilst you would slow down the wheel. As they would probably would wear out the clutch/brakes and driveshafts they've chosen to deactivate the differential clutches from when the moment you press the brake pedal. When drifting the car the car will be often 3wd instead of 4wd (unlike the permanent 4wd systems found on the Lancer Evolution / WRX STi), because only the outer side wheel is driven. This system has serious drawbacks. When you attack a corner hard first you'll have understeer, when you apply throttle from the apex you'll be trown into oversteer. This way you cannot be precise like an EVO/Sti. And it's not at all confidence inspiring. I tried to contact Ford to address and discuss this issues, but they haven't contacted me. Hopefully Ford will still take note of these finding and do something about it. I'm disappointed because I really wanted to buy a Focus RS, so Ford, please resolve this issues in the next Focus and I will be glad to publish my finding again.
Just because you are the two in a thousand who dislike the car the most out of all these other reviewers doesn't mean you are the only one "telling the truth" or "being real". Just that you have a differing opinion. Which is obviously fine, but you gotta love all these people claiming "Finally someone telling the truth!" just because you are being more negative than everyone else.
Muinaiset I wonder how many are "VW" fanboys or envious others sick of all the overwhelming hype this car has had? I mean all the major magazines agree. Petrol heads like Jeremy Clarkson, Matt LeBlanc and Matt Farah have Purchased. Everyday driver best hatchback, Road and track RS head to head WIN vs Golf R, But lo and behold we finally get the Honest truth here. Lmao!!
+savagegeese : Great review, as an owner of an RS myself I can agree with most of the things you said. A couple of points however. You _can_ get the back seats to fold flat, you must remove the headrests, then the seat bottoms fold up (forwards), then you can put the backs down completely flat. PITA I know, but useful if you need it. While I also agree that driving with the dampers in sport mode is ridiculous, I don't think that the standard damper settings (when in normal or sport) mode are that overly harsh. Perhaps it's what I'm comparing it against, but I personally like it. I also wholeheartedly agree that the orange peel on the paint is ridiculous.
Thanks for the video! Something else to note is how crazy the overpricing of this car is in dealers. If you walk into any of them the cheapest you'll find ranges from 45k to even 60k(CRAZY) depending where you live... and for that amount of money I'd compromise on a GLA45 AMG...How I wish the A45 AMG or the RS3 hatch came to the US >.
It's not what most people are thinking about when commenting on your video review, but as a small youtuber myself (under another account), I really like your video intro for the Focus RS.
A first time to the channel here. Howdy. For a guy who was interested in the car to begin with, I was not hearing anything new in the video. Is it an economy car with go-fast bolt ons? Yes. Were there compromises made? Of course. Is this a race car? No. Are pizzas awesome? Absolutely! What I was hoping, though, I'd hear something from the mechanic dude of his insight. I was all excited to see the mechanic dude..., then he said about, 20 words, maybe. The rest of the video was filled with a soothing spoken word performance, which I'm not too big on, with no new information. Neither a CONCISE driver's opinion, who will get this car for what it is. How's the pedal spacing to you - can you heel-and-toe on it? How's the seating position to you? How's the steering feel/steering ratio to you? How does the brake/brake pedal feel to you? I haven't heard. Thanks for supporting a good cause.
+dongypooh A lot of that is covered in the interior section of the video maybe you didnt catch it. Pedal spacing is ok but footwell intrusion on accelerator pedal is bad along with deflection. Harder to heel toe with larger feet. Steering feel is ok similar to ST and steering rack is quick but with poor turning circle. I terms of reliability, it's a Focus so any issues from that platform will be here and even more exaggerated from the ST. The hard ride will also do a number on interior panels and expect NVH and rattles. And lastly driver position is bad, we talk about that in supplemental video.
Can you do a review on a 2018 final edition RS? I've been told improvements were made to the ride quality & would love to here your points-of-view on the 2018s?
i can do that for you. Harder steering feel because lsd, bit lower sitting position , no issues after 10k. Michelin PSS are more than capable and durable for street and fast roads/ curves! I drive on normal suspensions settings, but even stiff mode is not like him on video lol. 22 mpg. PPF all over the paint to prevent paint chips. Fun, fun and more fun :)
@@Guillaume0688 Interesting, are you saying that the 201i comes with mechanical LSD in the front while the 16's and 17's didn't have it? Or you installed the LSD on your own? Thanks.
I really enjoyed this video. It's important to remind prospective buyer's of some of the pitfalls in buying a factory "tuner" car while enjoying some of the nice things about it. Given the massive dealer markup, reported overheating of the rear drive unit (dare not call it a diff) and some of the minor issues with driving position I am very glad there are some reviewers who didn't jump on the bandwagon.
I paid MSRP. My son and I drove the car for a combined -8 30 minute sessions. 6 of which were back to back with very minimal cool off at blackhawk farms raceway @ low 80's temp. Zero overheating issues. Oil temps fine. Zero brake fade. Passed many 'fast' cars in Intermediate group. I just did 5 sessions at Autobahn. Driving position is perfect, height adjustable. This car is a dream, reporting first hand. the driving dynamics sublime. Does not understeer where other 'brands' will. Because as the lead engineer reported "Understeer sucks"
Bought myself an ST, first actual car purchase after my 2003 Mustang which I got for a whopping grand as a first car. That being said, coming from an old mustang the ST/RS is a really big treat, especially to a young driver. I did actually work for a dealership for some time, and had many opportunities to drive everything from Mustang GTs, Raptors, a GT350 (once) as well as the various other ST cars such as the Fiesta, Edge, and Explorer before I found my new job. I found the ST series very appealing for the same reasons Savage disliked it. It doesn't look like a $25,000 car (not what I paid for mine), but handles very nicely. With minor modifications, I was able to take my ST and turn it into a street-pounding little sleeper. And that feeling of pride and ownership of something so seemingly innocuous that will take the wind out of many sails is my #1 turn on about these cars. That being said, I really disliked the overall presentation of the video. Narration was outright dour and the only reason I almost finished the video was hoping something would perk this guy's attitude up. This was my first time watching videos from this channel, and likely the last. Which sucks, because this guy knows what he's doing but he can't do it in a way that's satisfying to watch. If Jeremy Clarkson can say the RS200 handles like shit and within 30 seconds lose his ever-loving mind when the boost kicks in, there's no reason this guy can't either. Maybe it has something to do with living in Shitcago.
Well this guy is as his name suggests. Straight savage. His is a critical analyst not a comedic satirical entertainer like Clarkson. Watch his other videos and even though he is usually morose, the quality, information and detail are unmatched by other reviewers.
Do the back seats not come up like in the focus ST? The seat itself comes up against the back of the front seats and then the back part of the back seats can fold flat. Does the RS not do this?
Awesome review like usual, letting the average buyer know the true details of what the car will be like. At one point I was very interested in getting one, but have moved on. It ended up being way over hyped and looks much better on paper than the road. I still love the styling and the fact that its a hot hatch. Most manufacturers are dragging their feet with them.
TheMiata Drive one...lol Anyone that does, loved it! There is a comfort/normal setting which is fine on US roads so no issue...the car beats cars that cost 2, 3, and even 4 times as much on various tracks and is a very fun daily driver on normal roads.
Problem is that half the things he bangs on about can be turned off with a single button press. Nobody should need to drive the car on track mode on the road if you look at the settings differences between modes, to me I'd say he's exposed for knowing less about the car than he'd like you to believe.
My RS is an amazing car.... the handling and the way it slices through traffic on the expressways and parkways.... this suspension mode he is trashing is the track mode... you can disable the stiff dampers on the fly as there is a button on the blinker stalk and also the seats do fold flat he just didn't know that. He nit picked this car... didn't even mention drift mode which is basically RWD mode.
Always some clown that knows it all?RS is the best handling I've set my ass in ever!!Have driven many super cars you should be reviewing second hand lawnmowers.
We use Skilcraft products at work... The quality is spotty. Highlighters and dry erase markers - might as well forget about them, they dry up before they are out of the box. The only really goodness to trueness Skilcraft product I use is their Skilcraft Government pens. They were in the news a few years ago that offered to sell them to the general public. These had to pass a stringent set of military requirements, like write continuously for 1 mile or 5280 feet. There are anecdotal tales of using the spring for a gun part in a worst case scenario, and the pen tube for an emergency tracheotomy, or how the outer diameter of the pen is identical to that of a 5.56 round so it can be used to help your buddy pass qualification at the range. I have been using the same one for over 2 years of everyday writing at work. It's still just as good as a new one out of the box. The Skilcraft steno books are also good for taking notes, but I found Five Star to offer more durable and better memo books in the commercial market.
Not sure what kind of cars you guys are expecting for 40K car but focus RS is pretty up there in terms of engineering and performance. It is a great performing car based on a cheap economy platform with specially designed bits that makes them "special." It competes well with the other similar offering of the market and arguably hits a better balance between performance and comfort for the car enthusiasts. No of course it is not a race car and never intended to do extensive track work. It is designed to do everyday driving while being fun sometimes. It is not a Viper ACR where the car is never intended for daily driving and barely meets all the legal requirements to be able to be driven on the public road. The chassis design is never intended for handling so to make it work well under pressure the suspension tune makes the ride feel like crap. I feel the video is intended more to educate the fan boy of the car who expects it to be something it is not, but lets not discredit the amount of work went into this car. It is already hard to make a sporty car to hit the market already with all the emission and stuff. Lets not discredit this one too early.
Your videos have always been quality. Yet you doing the fundraising shout out made me donate to help. Dunno if it's that I'm just getting older but that's a nice thing you did there to help. please keep up the great reviews and edits.
It sucks that the only local dealership that has one of these marked it up 25k over msrp. Pretty fucking stupid because they have a GT350 that is about 5 grand cheaper.
As much respect as I have for the geese boys. This is my least favorite review. It's just so tonedeaf. Saying that an RS is uncomfortable and not the best on track is truly objective. But the idea that most people actually go to the track with the car they daily is kind of a joke. It's a fun car to drive around town and drift around in slick weather. We're talking about a hot hatch. This is typical critic speak where they take a screwdriver and say "it's terrible for nails." They say it every time there's a muscle car. "This muscle car can't turn." or "this economy car is slow." like we're taking their strengths and turning them into weaknesses. Not every car can be a Porsche 911 Turbo S. Muscle cars are fast on highways where they belong. Economy cars are extremely efficient, as intended. And the Focus RS is one of the most fun cars you can drive for under $40,000 STILL in 2022. This isn't meant to set lap times or crush corvettes and GTRs. Did they talk like this every time a WRX came out? It's meant to be an incredible handling fun daily for people who can only have one car. It beats almost everything in fun and handling and acceleration even close to the price range. The Type R and the Focus RS are one of the best cars you can do that with. Spending half the video talking about how it's not gonna destroy tracks is like complaining the entire time about space with a miata, and I love how they gave the Miata respect but not the RS. And I love both but it's really telling that one is a slow but fun handling car that's borderline useless as a daily and it gets high marks meanwhile this gets chopped down for being fast, fun and practical.| I feel like Savage Geese said "I don't like all this praise and hype. Time to go the other way." which is indicated by the beginning memes. So I feel like he's biased against it because of hype not the car.
Great review! Thank you for helping me to cross this car off my want list. Not to mention my recent unpleasant experience at an Idaho Ford dealership where they refused to let me test drive a used (25,000 mile) 2017 Shelby GT350.
Good work on the review, I've been watching each one, and the honesty / "in the shoppe" are probably the best parts. There is one correction to be made on this vid: The back seats do fold flat, if you lift up the rear seat bottoms up, it craeates a flat cargo space, almost as good as the Fit.
i love your reviews....I saw a lot of Ford RS reviews videos / written reviews. I thought to myself I think most of they were "paid" for their reactions. I happy to see you doing this review like your past reviews and go deep down to things about the cars that you review. Thank you for being so honest and not being "paid" to make it seem this is the Car of the Year for Ford.
I have the RS and ST and disagree. If you use the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S with the correct street use tire pressure, the RS is not that bad. Tire pressure is the key - and don't use the sport suspension setting.
I drove the Focus RS when they were released and the Ford dealerships were no longer treating them like the holy grail and would let you go for a test drive. I found it to be gimmicky, and that's coming from a guy who commutes in an Abarth. I think the Golf R is a better car but then you're dealing with VW dealers for service and that's hit or miss. I hope to see the Mazdaspeed 3 in the next couple of years or at the very least the CX5 with the 2.5L turbo.
They still treat them like the holy grail. You just got lucky. And there is nothing gimmicky about the car outside of the garbage pumped in sound. Everything has it's purpose and function., and does it well.
To me, the drift mode, the digital sound, and the pops and gurgles that have been added in the tune which seem to happen when the conditions wouldn't naturally call for it (similar to Mini) are all gimmicks. I also think a lot of the driving dynamics could have been retained with a more compliant ride but consumers think race cars are stiff so Ford went that route. Like every car, it has its flaws but I agree it has accomplished some pretty impressive things and I'm interested to see the evolution of the RS. Opinions are great things, everyone gets to have their own.
Jason Lillis --- IMO, 95% of the problem is that it has 19" wheels. If you put some nice (but old-fashioned) 17x9" on there, I'm sure it would instantly be 10 times more comfortable. :)
It would definitely improve the ride. I'm also a fan of smaller wheels and meatier tires for looks,ride and stability. Performance cars are essentially toys and in most cases if there's something you don't like about a car the aftermarket has the answer but of course there's usually a trade off.
I remember going to a cars and coffee with a Focus RS and people surrounded it like vultures while praising it, I knew what the car was but I frankly just didn't care. lol
I had a 2016 FiST. Those recaros are some of the best seats I’ve ever had in a car. If you’re bigger or a passenger .. you’ll hate them (anyone that had been a passenger hated them). Now I’m driving a Veloster N .. good seats. Not I miss that bear hug feeling on those recaros .. and the way higher lateral G forces of the N could use seats like the recaros
RS just place last in comparison test in the April 2017 issue. They praised the RS for the same reason you did and they killed it on the ride quality. The said it rides like a dump truck and said the RS is not a true drivers car, but its a tremendous performance car. And I totally agree
Polestar Wes you have a link to that test?
www.motortrend.com/cars/fiat/124-spider/2017/chevrolet-camaro-1le-bmw-m2-ford-focus-rs-fiat-124-spider-abarth-porsche-718-boxster-s-toyota-86/
Polestar Wes I love how during all the initial tests its the best car ever. Now its all of a sudden oh, it rides like crap and that matters.
Exactly! I would love for you to do a review of the 2017 Volvo V60/S60 Polestar. Your high quality reviews are hands down the best on not only on TH-cam, but the entire web. I own a 16 V60 Polestar and would love to hear what you think.
I just got my RS and I think the ride quality is quite good considering the insane performance this car provides.
A lot of people don't know this, but the seats actually do fold flat and the front seats can be pretty far back. The trick is to lift bottom of the back seats up and take the headrests out. There's a spot for the headrests in the back seats where rear passenger feet go. Other than that, great video!
"The new civic type R looks like it was designed for a 12 year old." Fucking hilarious!!
Got that right !
The civic looks like it's been designed by a little kid, after the kid having and looking at Gundam toys in his toy box.
@@theroyalcrownedtiger2946 commenting on a 4-year-old post is what little kids do
@@poolplexer : I can comment when I decide to do it, and you cannot stop me, you cannot convince me, you cannot talk me out of it, you cannot talk me into something else, ond so on.
I have my freedom to do whatever I decide to do, and nobody can stop me, not even you.
I am older than you think, I am at the age of being a legal parent or guardian.
Now scram, SlapKFD.
@@theroyalcrownedtiger2946 damn
@@theroyalcrownedtiger2946 that’s why I bought one lol. The designer of the hatchback makes gunpla so I’m guessing he was influenced by em
I test drove a 17' STI, 17' Golf R and a 17' Focus RS and I bought the Focus RS! Was the most exciting to drive of the three to me and the interior isn't nearly as tragic as people say. But hey, different strokes for different folks; it tickles my fancy and that's all that matters! Cheers!
I'm curious as to what your thoughts are about the RS now? Do you still have it & how does it daily drive?
@@poker_18rs92 he sold it for a 19' STI
@@marcov9808 wouldn't be surprised those cars had engine problems
@@marcov9808 no for a type R
I test drove 17 sti 17 type r golf r cam SS and bought the RS as well.
drove 58xxx miles in 2 years, and I daily 140mph btw school and work, car been to big bear 7 times, been in sand, mud, shit just goes, and tracked 2x. except a lot of paint chips car been amazing.
The production value of these videos are off the charts. Thanks for making them!
He did search for a gentleman's club... so there was at least mention of hot babes.
no joke. it's been awhile since i tuned in to this channel. it's better than...most everything I can think of.
I know this is extremely out of the date/time continuum, but after watching this all I could think of were the issues that he brought up about the negatives were just about all resolved in the '17 model year cars with the RS2 package. Having owned said model and then reading up on all the goodies I took for granted over the original '16 cars like this one reviewed, I can agree to the detractions brought up in the video and happily say I never experienced them. So for whatever the non-binding two cents of a youtube commentor is worth, the RS is a great car and definite contender for this segment but only if you go '17 and later and RS2 package.
Yep, they made the shocks a ton better in late 17. Sucks because everyone still has the first impressions. My '18 is pretty hot-hatch-normal for ride quality
They only changed the springs AFAIK, and then the dampers in 2018.
So essentially if you just buy aftermarket suspension your 2016 will be better, or go buy stock 2018 and it'll be the same
I was able to take an RS on an extended test drive, I put the car in sport mode, kept the suspension in sport and didn’t hit the suspension button and the car rode way smoother than my Focus ST. I felt it to be super comfortable. When hating the suspension button to put it in the more aggressive dampening, the ride is definitely more bouncy and not comfortable, but when in normal suspension setting, it honestly rides great and the quality is really comfortable.
Hands down one of the highest quality car reviewers on TH-cam today.
Without question.
Excusegeese
Agreed
Agreed. I can’t stand almost all youtube “car reviewers” except this guy.
Yeah definitely savagegeese and straightpipes. Those guys could make films their editing is so good
Thank you for the honest opinion in this review. I contacted TRI and donated $200 as I know all too well the issues Veterans face when they separate from the service, as I am one myself. Thank you for supporting a great cause and I will continue to tune in for future reviews.
+jay25f Thanks for helping them out, its a cool thing they are doing and helping people. Appreciate it. And those who do service deserve much more credit.
why is he listening to a breastfeeding tutorial. rofl 29:54
Training for going to the Gentlemen's club of course...
LOL
Cause he's self aware
@@Black2005Lotus That was my thought too lol
If you know, you know😂😂
Been daily my RS now for 3 years! I dont really get the bad ride talk (in soft mode), it's hard yes but i think this kind of car should be. I am european tho so we are used to a hard low ride on our hatchbacks and our regular sedan cars dont drive like a floating Buick yacht. Never had any problem with the car in 3 years! Only been in for regular services and that i can not say about any other car i have had. Well it is time for me to let it go soon but i will remember it as the most reliable car i ever had! And it's a FORD!?! to me thats amazing. I didnt think that when buying it thats for sure.
Try driving it on American urban roads and get back to us. Europe has so much better road surface quality that you simply cannot compare.
The geese were particularly savage in this video. They must know when the RS is near.
Why does this guy always sound pissed off?
💯💯🤣🤣
I don't know why but it's why I subscribed. Real deal
"You know what the Midwest is?/Old and restless..."
I love it
@@chooseymomschoose Kanye west
Yeah... it's a $40k car for a reason, not for the interior. Sad to see you comment like this because it's pretty common sense with any history of cars derived from lessers like your WRX/STI, Evos, etc. You are paying for that performance and handling. Yeah, gas pedal, you got it, i'm with you on that, and yes aftermarket fixed it already. Not sure what type of ride you're looking for as things only get crazy in Track mode. Car is perfectly livable to "most" people who buy these cars I'd imagine, no reason to scare away people for no reason.
You are falling into the same trap the big names in reviews do. You're asking for a lot more for unnecessary things like an even better interior, thus driving the cost up even more. You can't price this thing up in the $50K mark, driving this level of performance away from another set of people. And the regular focus interior feels better than a $20k car out of the box. The interior is super quiet, especially when you take the whole literally 2 seconds to disable the fake noises. If anything, the exhaust is too quiet overall on the car.
Interior doesn't make a performance car "feel" special. It's driving that does, and this car delivers that in spades. The Recaro seats are great, i'm over 6' tall. The steering wheel feels great, and has great feedback. Shifter and clutch, great. Perhaps you're too jaded driving cars far more expensive than this. But you need to realign your baselines and perspectives. Don't be afraid to give credit where it's due, and sit back and think about things more for establishing a proper and realistic baseline where things should be compared to.
The car lives to the hype, and to many of it's owners, beyond. It is what it is, and Ford gave a great product. There are not many cars as usable as this everyday that has the level of performance it has. I'll agree with others that there are few, if any cars that are faster than this thing on your common backroad.
Glad to see you like it and I'm sure the positives far outweigh the negatives. I don't think they are complaining so much as expressing an awareness of what the car is and is not.
But the report that the driving position sucks is crucial - very few reviewers will address this and it's core to any sports car, and/or one to sit in for long. Perhaps it doesn't bother you so much because you're taller.
And the heat/boost issues that have to be managed electronically mean that while it may be faster (for a while) it can't keep that level of performance up for very long, I reckon.
It's a goofy segment where a subaru or evo is "the standard"...imagine if Honda circa '99 had dabbled in rally and made an AWD hot hatch. Or if Ford had designed focus to fully accommodate AWD platform from get-go.... we would likely be in a bit different game now.
+jrzez Its more about leveling the expectations about the limitations of the car. At the press event the American Product planner got out of the Mazda3 with me and straight up said they are benchmarking it for the NEW focus. Its just a dated setup compared to the other C segment cars, thats a reality. Does that mean its bad? No. Veloster owners dont like hearing it either.
Credit was given all through out the video on what they were able to do I agree with all your points. But that does not mean the car gets a pass on the negatives because of it. This is not a car for everyone for sure thats why the final thoughts are dont order one without driving it first, namely if you have your expectations set higher. As far as fixing pedals, disabling digi sound, again its a pointed at Ford... Fix it and give owners a way of disabling without modding car.
Your comment was very sorted btw, thanks.
jrzez You have to consider that $40k usually gets you better quality, you can get a brand new Lexus ISF for $40k. Yeah, I understand that this is performance oriented and it's sort of in the same vein as shitting on a Lotus for not being comfortable, but it's a suped up economy car that lacks elements that hurt its daily driver use (which is what most people buy a Ford Focus for) as well as its track capability. I'm young, and even I wouldn't be down for those seats with zero adjustability, and for that price you shouldn't get a throttle pedal that moves around like wacky waving inflatable tube man. Besides, most of his negative comments on the interior were driver centric, and since its marketed as a drivers car they could afford to make the interior cater to the driver more. It wasn't like SG harped on baby seats or rear DVD screens or w/e.
I too think U missed a crucial point
There is nothing like a Focus RS in US, sure 1 can say there is Golf R,there is STi, there is EVO X, but frankly nothing convinced me as much as the RS despite its stupid ride quality and fake noises and actually a good interior that felt better than a lot of $40k cars at this price point, except for maybe Golf R, some Acuras etc
The RS is a car for some1 special, its not for every 1, its not at all easy on the owner, it demands some skill as well
for 40k U can get a super loaded SS or a V6 RS which I see as best alternatives to FoRS, but they dont have 4 doors, no way nearly as refined, pathetic to see out,
See nothing is perfect, and somethings are over perfect(Golf 7R)
The RS I think is an imperfect drivers car, thats special because not every 1 wud own it but the hardcore ones ONLY
I don't think other reviewers were dishonest about their enthusiasm for the RS. I just think they spent most of their time driving the RS where it is awesome: On track and in the mountains.
+jrzez I like your perspectives, and as an owner with 3k miles on his RS, I agree with most of them. In particular, I agree with your mindset that, like an Evo or an STI, the Focus RS isn't a car you buy because you want a luxurious interior that makes you feel special and coddled. (That's the Golf R!) Regardless, the interior still feels well put together, of good quality, and with money spent on all the things which make the driver happy: seats, steering wheel, shifter.
+savagegeese Speaking of those Recaro seats and the way the leading edge of the seat cushion digs into your thighs, I had the same complaint when I bought the car. However, after a few months they've broken-in and shaped to my legs, and I now find them very comfortable and supporting. I have no problem doing 8 hour drives in them. In fact, the majority of owners seem very happy with the seats, which is a relief considering how little adjustability they have. I agree with you that the seats could go a little lower in the car.
I think the best points of this review are how the RS is most fun when really driven hard but yet there are real concerns about how the car will deal with the rigors of the track, considering its cooling and camber limitations. (I haven't gotten mine on a track yet.) I also completely agree that the suspension is unnecessarily hard, even in Normal mode, and other sporting cars manage better rides with just as impressive handling. I'm tempted to find a better ride-and-handling balance in the aftermarket because I agree Ford missed here.
For me, there are two areas where the RS really shines. The first is the steering quickness: I love how little steering input I need to make the RS dive into corners, and how the RS has the precision of handling to match that quick rack. There is an aura of sport and agility imbued in the RS just from its steering personality. The second is the AWD torque vectoring and how it gives the RS multiple distinct different personalities depending on the mode. The car feels incredibly neutral on-power in Track mode, which is very confidence inspiring and let's you take corners are incredible speeds. Then, in Drift mode, the RS feels curiously nimble and very over-vectored, but provides a whole different fun game for you to play behind the wheel: How much steering angle can I replace in this corner with throttle/torque-vectoring? The answer is quite a bit! The RS makes my giggle and laugh, and I think it is a little misleading to say it drives like a RWD car, because there is no other car I've driven (I'm piloted the Evo X and GT-R) that so aggressively and obviously routes power to affect its handling.
Thanks for the review!
If anyone wants to see my in-depth thoughts about the RS, I have posts here:
steeringcolumn.kinja.com/long-term-2016-ford-focus-rs-1783790121
steeringcolumn.kinja.com/comparison-2016-ford-focus-rs-2016-vw-golf-r-2016-su-1785284597
steeringcolumn.kinja.com/long-term-update-2016-ford-focus-rs-1786785746
Dude, you didn't fold that seat down properly.
The seats fold flat.
+Abendschein No other hatch requires the absurd amount of steps to fold seats down psuedo flat. Even then its still not flat as cargo floor is still higher because styrofoam tray.
Pseudo flat? Other than the cargo height difference, it's pretty flat. Pseudo flat would be what you did here.
Also, it's not a lot of steps. The only annoying part is taking the headrests out. Even then it takes less than 30 seconds. Which I do agree need a better place to go. In the Mazda 3 hatches you pull them out and there's a place specifically for them.
The seats do not fold flat, they are always arched like that
Love your videos, but Abendschein is right. The seats do fold flat... certainly enough to call it "flat" when done correctly. Not a huge deal, but you did miss that detail, and it kind of throws your criticism out the window.
I had a 2003 Matrix XRS that need the same amount of steps/effort/work to fold the seats completely down.
Focus RS really wasn't meant for the track, they never were. There are very few cars in the world that can keep up with a Focus RS in the mountain twisties.
My Evo 9 MR would 😎
I live in mountains seen all my friends sti and wrx shit the bed.. 2 motors some 3 motors later lmao. No thanks subaru. Boxer sucks
I've had mine on track twice. It was great :)
If the RS is "just a focus", then the STi is "just an impreza" and the evo is "just a lancer". I traded in a 2013 Focus ST for an RS and it feels (and sounds) like a very different car. (and I love it). That said, it is still a hatch, not a true sports car which is why I'm saving for a Lotus. :)
Traded in my 15 ST for a brand new 17 RS just a month ago and I have absolutely no regrets about it.
That would be true if the Evo and the STi weren't designed and created for race application. Nothing is retrofit on the Evo or STi...but most of the good bits on the RS are...it was built purely for market competition, not race competition (which is where the Mitsubishi Evolution and Subaru WRX STi come from).
@@iTz_FLAwL3zZ Do you still have the RS? I have an 18 F150 and unfortunately probably won't ever own a RS, but I absolutely love them. Break my neck every time one passes me. Do you still like it?
@jakeSINbernhard. I traded my 14' ST1 for my now 16' RS2 and I have 0 regrets. Occasionally I want a little more power, but overall it's the perfect car imo.
@@dojyr3130 I went from a 2014 focus st2 to a 2017 focus rs. I was majorly dissapointed that there's hardly any differences in the interior, but i do love my rs. I feel like the st had more personality( i think that's due to the fact that my st was full bolt ons and had a catless downpipe) but the power delivery and cornering in the rs is far superior. After a tune, an intake and exhaust, the rs has definitely come closer to the spirit of the st, and much much faster lol. Since I'm short (5'7) i feel like the rs has a proper seat height. I've sat in cars with lower seats and i feel like I'm trapped in a bucket. Now i gotta get the wife a tundra and I'll be completely content with my vehicles haha.
I suspect that the muffler valve is to close off that port at low RPM to decrease pipe diameter and increase torque. At higher RPM it will open the valve. The idea is having two effective diameters for the exhaust system. Small diameter at low RPM and high diameter at high RPM.
Great review. You are one of the first reviewers that didn't just regurgitate facts and figures of the car's abilities. I loved how you gave the track perspective as well as on road use perspective. Keep up the great work
Most professional, detailed review of any car I have ever watched. I look forward to watching more from savage geese.
Your voice is so condescending I can't really tell if you like the car or not lmao
Raptor I know, it's driving me insane.
Raptor You only think that because you either didn’t listen properly or you did not watch the full video
Speedy Motions 403
You both have issues being humans.
I don't think he knows either...
I feel like most of these issues could be corrected by not being 300 years old.
I never comment but did this guy just endorse a company that employs special needs people, and then use the phrase "tard it up" really???
@@gmiles7217 I could not find that reference, but the Common phrase is "Tart it up". Possibly you misheard.
@@gmiles7217 he said "tart it up". Which means something akin to "lipstick on a pig". You misheard, calm it down.
ahhh I hated this car until this review. You mean I can fit half eaten roadkill and adult magazines in the boot. SOLD 👍
You can turn off the sport mode suspension by pressing the left lever button in track mode! You receive the same performance boost and with a comfortable ride quality.
So then why even have that sport mode? Looks like Ford dropped the ball in that area
"bumpy" roads made this reviewer "grumpy". Who cares what others think of you? A car is visceral and utilitarian simultaneously. The joy is being able to transition from one to the other as needed. The RS meets that criteria for me. Nonetheless, very in-depth review. Thank you for taking the time to make this video.
I just test drove a '17 on the 405 FWY last weekend & I thought the ride quality was just fine? Idk, maybe it's just me but I loved the car, however I don't love the prices on them.
Just wanted to say thanks for a great review!! It's fantastic to see a comprehensive review that is forthright about some of the very real shortcomings of this car, whilst acknowledging its many strengths.
I did buy the car sight unseen, and to be honest, I'm glad I did. Because if I'd taken it for a test drive I would have baulked at how hard the car is. In Australia we have a lot of course chip rads, and on our first drive, my wife and I were actually talking about packing earplugs in the glove box. The engine felt tight as hell and didn't seem all that keen to rev. The car felt wooden, stiff and like it was on stilts.
But you know what? I don't know whether it is just getting used to it, but after about 1000km, the whole thing loosens up. The car just seems to come together, and I am absolutely loving it.
Oh, and I was one of the "lucky" ones that got the old Microsoft Sync 2 version. I guess it's probably a case of not knowing what you're missing, but I have found it to be user friendly and intuitive, if a little dated in appearance.
But the seating position really is "shit"! Too high, although the optional Recaro racing seats don't seem to have the under thigh issues that the standard Recaros shown in the video have. I fact the seats are fantastic, but you do sit way too high.
The sound system is absolutely dreadful. In Australia we don't get any options other than the forged rims (which are actually the ones shown in the video) which come with the Cup 2 tyres - more on this later. As a result of this lack of options, the standard issue in Australia does not have the sub-woofer installed in the boot (trunk to you Americans). This means that there is a completely pointless foam floor under the carpet in the rear that serves no purpose other than to waste boot space. Removing this floor liberates space, both in depth and front to back width, but means that the carpet no longer fully covers the boot floor. This is alleviated somewhat by buying a rear floor liner (and I'm glad I did after a growler of beer leaked all over the place) but it's still a disappointing and pointless oversight that wastes interior space for no good reason. The lack of subwoofer leaves the stereo system sounding extremely flat, and no amount of audio adjustment helps this most underwhelming part of the whole package.
As mentioned, the forged alloy/Cup 2 wheel/tyre option is the only one available in Australia (other than colour) and I went for this option mainly because the black forged alloys look far superior than the standard wheels which are finished in silver. I must disagree that you don't want the Cup 2 tyres for the road, they are EPIC! The grip afforded by them in combination with the AWD and torque vectoring system is simply astounding, and I fully intend to replace them, like for like, once they wear out. This thing defies physics in tight turns and, frankly, anyone who fully exploits the handling of the car with these tyres on a public road has a death wish and ought to be locked up. The car sends drive rearwards right at the point that front end grip is running out, and you can feel drive simultaneously being sent to the outside rear wheel while the torque vectoring grabs the inside front brake, tightening your cornering line. It takes a little getting used to, but once you do, you can lean on this car through corners in a way that is hugely confidence inspiring and that is really communicative. I'm continually amazed that a gar with 60% weight overt the front axle feels so balanced and RWD. Torque steer is noticeable in straight lines but, counter intuitively, dissipates the harder and with more steering lock you go into a corner.
I optioned the "Magnetic" grey metallic and it's a lovely colour. Paint application appears to be generous but there is a noticeable and disappointing "orange peel" in the finish. This is somewhat alleviated by the colour, metallic and the application of an aftermarket protectant coating. I'd agree that the car doesn't really "special" or different to a more prosaic Focus, and I reckon I have had exactly zero people take a second look at it in six weeks of ownership.
All in all I'm really pleased with the purchase. Yes, a Golf R of similar price beats the RS hands down for fit, finish and presentation. But when you're up for a good time....
... good god!
Fun fact about those worried about cargo space, the back seats can actually be put down all the way (for a somewhat flat surface). Simply remove the headrests, pull up where one sits (to release it), and boom!
Idk man. I’ve just bought the 2018 model and I love it. Before that I’ve owned an 03 Celica, a 2015 fiesta ST, and a 2015 STi.
The RS is definitely my favourite so far.
About the stif ride, I don’t really mind. All my cars have been pretty stiff and I haven’t noticed that much difference with this one. Really standard for me.
Bro yr Ballin 😂
Sure it’s your fav now. I’m betting not what you will say when it’s gone.
@@gregblack8550 I just might sell it in the coming months and the idea saddens me a little. I haven’t changed my mind so far and doubt I will. I love this car.
@@Spart1269 what makes you want to sell it? Im on the edge of getting a later 17 RS with the rs2 package
I just found your channel. I'm so glad that someone is doing honest, critical reviews. I think most cars are made with a target audience in mind and you seem to point that out and tell us if we aren't that audience then the car may not be for us. I applaud this treatment and you high quality production work.
Keep up the awesomeness!
Great review, stunning cinematography and a beautiful message behind it all!
I test drove a 2017 Focus RS and the acceleration blew my mind. If you want a hatch/hot 4 that is faster you are entering AMG and Audi territory. The car handled like it was on rails. I have also read/watched multiple reviews praising the handling. I guess that is how subjective reviews of any type can be.
In fact I liked the ride/handling and acceleration so much. I bought the car. :)
The interior kills it for me at that price point. Which is why I'd rather go for a civic type r
@AZ Niteforce cool story kid. I've been in both thankfully, and it truly looks like for went to autozone to get their gauges, interior is all plastic fuck that at 40k? Lol
I see an rs up for sale for 25k at ford lol.. no where near 40k
Unless you lookimg to get into a 2018 which is stupid unless you got bucksm only because theres only 500 red and 500 blue so its more rare compaired to many makes
@@justinc.6339 never seen an rs at 25k at any dealer. Not even private sellers selling below 30k
*Loved* the attention to tech details in this review and not just constant handies back and forth all day screaming about how life changing this car is.
I’ve driven a srt4 neon for 19 years. I just bought a 2018 limited edition racer red. This is the first car in 19 years that I would trade the neon for…..not really I’m keeping the neon as well.
The Golf R is too refined but this RS is too econobox for you. Maybe you should fly over to Europe to test drive a Renault Megane RS.
I own a 2016 RS and love it more as time goes on. BUT… the most important part of this video is the very end, do a longer than usual test drive with it before buying. That ride is not for everyone and it can be brutal for daily driving, especially in the city. I drive my girl’s VW Tiguan for anything more than 45 minutes of “normal” driving so I’ve found this car is best enjoyed in short bursts specifically when you wanna smash it. Drive it that often on the right roads and it’s always a special experience. Never selling mine.
Tyres. After using the Michelin Sport 4s at the UK tyre setting of 41 psi front and 38 psi rear I suffer less bouncy suspension.
Edit - I've added a LSD on the front and now have great front end control when accelerating.
Edit2: the recommended tyre pressure for the street is not 46PSI!!! It is 41psi front and 38psi rear. If you use 46psi, it'll be very bouncy
I plan on buying the Michelin Sport 4S tires with BBS wheels for my 14' Focus ST. Do you recommend these tires with aftermarket coilovers? Currently use 18" Continental DSW 06 tires and they do not compliment my suspension, in which I've painstakingly adjusted the ride height and dampening settings just right.
Great review as always. The production quality is always exceptional. Thanks for sharing the information about the charity, it was my pleasure to make a donation to such a cause.
I thought I had moved on, but this review really awoke my passion for this car again. I've driven a Focus ST for two years, yet this car was always the "goal for me"... but now idk. So much time has passed. I'm finally in a place to purchase an RS, but it doesn't seem worth it anymore. Compared to newer cars, it seems dated. Idk if having a car payment for the same platform for 2 more wheels spinning and 100+ hp is worth it anymore payment wise. Emotionally, I feel like I'm missing out tho
did you end up buying it?
@@yukoncorneliusthelegendhim9751 No lol. Still have the ST. I'm gonna drive it into the ground
Savagegeese. My hat is off to you sir.
I have been a sports car/70s era muscle car fan for most of my 39 year long life.
In that time and space, I have never seen a more entertaining, intelligent, and unbiased review of automobiles.
Everything you make is gold. If you have a Patreon account, I would be happy to pay a monthly prescription for extra content.
I love this car review. I really want this car a lot, but you really pointed out key points I never would have checked before I bought it. Personally I don't mind about the bumpy ride or the exhaust sounds. But this was an amazing in depth review and really made me recognize certain things I would need to do if I owned this car.
+Kurt Moon Glad you found value in it, if you are ready for the compromises it will generate smiles
Comming from Civic TypeR EP3 I would say that RS is better in every way. More power, superior handling, confidence inspiring, quieter interior, louder exterior. The most important thing to me is that it feels so easy to control. Even flat out on the wide corner you can go sideways in normal drive mode and it lets you slide as long as you want. It's pure fun. The track suspension setting is realy harsh I got to admit. Outside the track I would stick to normal/sport/drift mode. Those above offer plenty support and I'm pretty sure you won't feel like you lose control at any point. Interior in EU version has better Recaro seats than that in this video but even those are comfy and offer great support. The dash is a bit plastiky but it's ergonomic and has everything you may need. Epic car. It's a shame it has been discontinued.
Thanks for the vid and 'real world' edge and appreciate the tech/mechanics observations, too. Gotta say, though, even some of your praises have a tone of "I hate it" haha. I find the front seat awesome! The passenger is definitely too high though. I've a 2017 RS2 and really like it a lot. You said it's a negative thing that it's not "special" when just driving it in a non-spirited way, which is your bias. My bias is that it's a wolf in sheep's clothing and I like the design. ..well, the front end is no sleeper, though. However, I get several thumbs up from strangers every week...sometimes one a day or a few a day. My RS jumps when I say jump and no wheel-hop and it just sticks to the road. It's my daily driver. I do wish it had a better turning radius though and a smaller diameter steering wheel...I agree with you there. Regarding the stiff suspension, the down side is well, stiff and some might feel harsh and the upside is, a very competent handling that is solid and ready for the next bump without mushy softness. Is this car for everyone? Of course not. The Recaro seats don't really fit obese people, which the USA isn't all too lacking of. The RS has a lot and is a lotta bang for the buck. I test drove the Golf R and no available heated steering wheel, is also AWD but is front-wheel drive bias, which lends to oversteering into the corners vs the RS not. The exhaust is great and pops
damn SG that intro was something that coulda been the commercial for the RS! love the cinematography and style of your videos, you got your own vibe going and I respect it. Will keep posted for more!
Should we settle for the Focus RS, or wait for a revival of the Probe GT, designed by Mazda ? Of course for winter and family errands, I would have a GLC43.
+Affalterbach 1967 Probe GT and Tempo RS is what I am waiting for.
6:20 When he said neon SRT4 I got so much nostalgia. Just gave mine away to a good home as I bought a new car a few weeks ago. Needed something a little more reliable, but man do I gotta say, I loved my old SRT4, Hell of a first car :)
Thanks for the nostalgia, subbed :)
29:54 breastfeeding tutorial? lmao
I live for these Easter eggs in his videos
I have said this before, but this is by far the most real and honest review channel out there. The amazing cinematography helps too!
+Joe Tarrant Thank you for that Joe, its appreciated.
3:50 You will need to first pull the seat padding up, then fold the seat down to make it flat.
Shenghong Zhang ?
I found your channel a few weeks ago and I'm making my way through all the reviews. You are brutality honest with the pros and cons to the point where the viewer has to make the decision. Great f'ing job!
What's up with the horror movie background music though?
Sounds more like war music like in the game Total War
I'm looking at buying one and I really appreciate the review. Not hyping it, this is what is good at and what it's bad at. Liked and subscribed
You're the man. You are keeping it real. I can't thank you enough. New subscriber right here!
You take the rear headrests off and put them in the rear footwells when you fold the back seats down so you dont have to put the front seats forward.
Savagegeese .. your videos are fantastic I have learned a lot listening to them. I had an RS and just sold it to buy a Golf R or an Audi S3 after test driving the golf and Audi I am thinking of buying another RS the ride is a bit harsh especially with the dampers in sport mode, however the residual values are always good on RS's.
I would like to see you give your impression of the focus ST vs RS to see if they are worth the price difference.
The ride is only bad in track mode, otherwise it is fine.
Good grief dude, this is the best Ford Focus RS review out there. Thanks for making it and taking the time to inform us on the real world everyday Ford Focus RS.
I find the review a bit odd, the ride is slated, however you go on to say its great on track and unbelievable on the road. Thats why it is firm. Then you say you feel nothing driving it, after saying the drive is unbelievable...feel nothing as built on an economy platform, what does the platform matter? If it performs well it is good and it does perform well. I own a 2017 RS and dont mind the ride....in normal mode at least. I used to have a 2009 Audi S3 and that really did have a brittle ride, but you got nothing back in return that had poor handling. In comparison the RS is pin sharp.
Excusegeese contradicts himself all the time! It's odd
The problem with the RS on the street is that it's too competent to be fun at legal speeds. On a empty back road with no traffic it is a riot, but for day to day stuff the ride quality and crossover driving position kill the fun.
Note: They fixed the damping rates starting with mid 2017 production dates, which likely fixed the main ride quality issue. More Stiff =\ more performance
I had mine for 80000 miles from 1mile in showroom. No other car I had balls to go 170mph every week for last 4 years, now I have a gt4 and i drive 10times faster in RS everywhere than the gt4 simply it makes you a pro driver. Engine was amazing 0 issues M520 package. 0 problems I still cry why I sold it.
Spend some time reading about this car before uttering half-truths. The Focus RS has digitally controlled assymetric all wheel drive. It features a GKN Twinster rear drive unit over-geared by 1.2 per cent relative to the front wheels. And you reckon that is unsophisticated?
+Pete's Channel Its an on demand system with a tvd rear diff. Maybe new in the segment but not new.
Completely incorrect. It has no rear differential, it has digitally controlled clutches to each rear axle. A yaw sensor and other inputs determine the degree of clutch engagement. It is so effective that Mercedes and Audi are engineering the GKN Twinster into some of their models as we speak.
+Pete's Channel Symantecs, RDU, Diff, its still a drive unit and Yes I agree as said in video completely on demand system, is able to transfer power to each wheel using hydrolic clutches in rear based on sensor data. Not trying to argue on it and dont disagree with you
just fyi.. and i've seen this numerous times now... the rear seats fold FLAT. You lift up the seat bottom, TAKE OUT THE REAR HEADRESTS and the seats will fold FLAT like a ford escape.. It's actually probably 20% more room due to this.. AND you front seats can still fit me(6'0") where I normally sit, which is almost all the way back.
About to pick up a low miles 2017- they were a value for money when new at 40k, but now that the hype has died they're a steal for mid 20's! Also for some of us an understated drivers car is waaaaay better than looking like we belong in the "flashy Camaro or mustang that I rev but never actually drive" club.
Never in my life have I seen one sell in the mid 20s.
You're my new favorite reviewer. You point out gripes no one else mentions but are all the things I would notice, and would bug me, if I drove it.
Keep speaking your truth. Thank you.
haha wow, if you rip the rs interior like that, i'd love to see a review of the subaru sti interior. that would be really savage.
Where was this video when I was gaga over this car in 2016? Only seeing this now. Got to test drive one just a few years ago. As I watch this now I'm laughing out loud at all the negative points. 100% accurate and my sentiments exactly. Love the channel. Cheers!
Dear Mr. Savagegeese,
You own an apology to the Focus RS and I kindly request that you do so on your channel. I watched your review and almost did not buy the RS myself because of you. Now, after 10 000 miles of ownership, I think that you were completely wrong. In order to counterbalance the hype around the car, you decided to complain about every single thing you possible could, presenting the RS as a terrible car. The drive shaft was too small, the engine was from a mustang, the interior was cheap, the car was too stiff (I bet you had the suspension in track mode most of the time), etc. The RS is an iconic car, we never had one in US and now that FORD brought it over, let’s celebrate it for what it is, a 40k USD Focus modified for performance 1st, comfort 2nd by the manufacturer. And, I am ok with it, because I can drive my RS like I would my Miata on a back road, still fit a baby sit in the back, and safely drive during a snowstorm with proper tires. Your review reminded me of those food critics who happily complain about a meal prepared by a world-renowned chef while they can barely boil an egg themselves. FORD engineering had to make some compromises, but they made a car for those who love to drive, for those who smile when they nail a nice downshift with a heel and toe, the RS rewards that with a crackle and pop. Is it perfect? No. However, it is much better than what you portrayed it to be. Please, do not be one of those incapable food critics, do the RS justice.
If you're buying a car with 350bhp, 4 wheel drive that pops and bangs on over run, the seats folding flat is literally the last thing you should be arsed about. I mean yeah its a thorough review, but RS's will be bought by a specific type of person for a specific type type of job. No one ever bought a Sierra RS Cosworth and said, well the rear visibility is poor because of the rear spoiler.
If RS is that bad which other car is better in this price range?
That's what I want to know.
For what application?
Graham White base Alfa Guilia, 38k, civic type r, 35k.
@@sbklvr slower they are
Golf R way better
I watched all your videos and I am grateful that someone who is doing car reviews is daring to do it honestly. So big respect to you! I hope you can continue it like this.
I was waiting for this review, because I couldn't find myself in the reviews of the media.
I've driven 3 different Focus RS to be sure of my explanation here below, so it is not a coincidence. I was shopping for a Focus RS myself but was hugely disappointed. Mainly because I want to compare it with a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (and in lesser extend the Subaru WRX STi). I owned both a EVO VI RS2 and VIII MR RS and drove them for 5-6 years.
You ticked the notes right on the suspension part, however I cannot agree on the drivetrain part. Here is where Ford fails big time.
My main issues are:
- as the car is mainly FWD, it pulls massively to the left/right. My last test was a bit better than the first two cars I've driven..
- when you try left foot braking, the RWD disconnects for a fraction of second, however if at that moment you're in the middle of a drift the car will push you immediately in understeer. Not fun!
I'm trying to explain. Maybe you can compare it to your and Turboswki's findings.
Haldex system as found on the Volkswagen products are no fun. Ford has taken it differently. The have a 100% limited slip differential at the rear with a different "transmission" than the front differential. With this system in place, Ford let's the rear differential run 20% faster than the front wheels.
Normally that would be insane: your tires would wear like crazy because the rear end would push the front wheels. However on the Focus RS, the rear wheels are not connected to the diff, at least not as long the clutch doesn't operate.
So if you're attacking the corners then the electronics are engaging and releasing the clutch all the time. Probably only for the outer-side wheel.. so on the moment when you are left foot braking and on the same time giving throttle, then the clutches would accelerate the wheel whilst you would slow down the wheel.
As they would probably would wear out the clutch/brakes and driveshafts they've chosen to deactivate the differential clutches from when the moment you press the brake pedal.
When drifting the car the car will be often 3wd instead of 4wd (unlike the permanent 4wd systems found on the Lancer Evolution / WRX STi), because only the outer side wheel is driven.
This system has serious drawbacks. When you attack a corner hard first you'll have understeer, when you apply throttle from the apex you'll be trown into oversteer. This way you cannot be precise like an EVO/Sti. And it's not at all confidence inspiring.
I tried to contact Ford to address and discuss this issues, but they haven't contacted me. Hopefully Ford will still take note of these finding and do something about it.
I'm disappointed because I really wanted to buy a Focus RS, so Ford, please resolve this issues in the next Focus and I will be glad to publish my finding again.
Just because you are the two in a thousand who dislike the car the most out of all these other reviewers doesn't mean you are the only one "telling the truth" or "being real". Just that you have a differing opinion. Which is obviously fine, but you gotta love all these people claiming "Finally someone telling the truth!" just because you are being more negative than everyone else.
Muinaiset I wonder how many are "VW" fanboys or envious others sick of all the overwhelming hype this car has had?
I mean all the major magazines agree. Petrol heads like Jeremy Clarkson, Matt LeBlanc and Matt Farah have Purchased. Everyday driver best hatchback, Road and track RS head to head WIN vs Golf R, But lo and behold we finally get the Honest truth here. Lmao!!
Joe M Don't you know? Anyone who praises this car is being paid by Ford! Lol
Muinaiset I wanna get some of that $$$ 😂. They paid a LOT of reviewers!! I've seen so many my head is spinning.
+V P What a stupid reply.
Muinaiset so anyone who hype the Golf R must be paid by VW ?
+savagegeese : Great review, as an owner of an RS myself I can agree with most of the things you said. A couple of points however. You _can_ get the back seats to fold flat, you must remove the headrests, then the seat bottoms fold up (forwards), then you can put the backs down completely flat. PITA I know, but useful if you need it.
While I also agree that driving with the dampers in sport mode is ridiculous, I don't think that the standard damper settings (when in normal or sport) mode are that overly harsh. Perhaps it's what I'm comparing it against, but I personally like it.
I also wholeheartedly agree that the orange peel on the paint is ridiculous.
Thanks for the video! Something else to note is how crazy the overpricing of this car is in dealers. If you walk into any of them the cheapest you'll find ranges from 45k to even 60k(CRAZY) depending where you live... and for that amount of money I'd compromise on a GLA45 AMG...How I wish the A45 AMG or the RS3 hatch came to the US >.
It's not what most people are thinking about when commenting on your video review, but as a small youtuber myself (under another account), I really like your video intro for the Focus RS.
A first time to the channel here. Howdy.
For a guy who was interested in the car to begin with, I was not hearing anything new in the video. Is it an economy car with go-fast bolt ons? Yes. Were there compromises made? Of course. Is this a race car? No. Are pizzas awesome? Absolutely!
What I was hoping, though, I'd hear something from the mechanic dude of his insight. I was all excited to see the mechanic dude..., then he said about, 20 words, maybe.
The rest of the video was filled with a soothing spoken word performance, which I'm not too big on, with no new information. Neither a CONCISE driver's opinion, who will get this car for what it is. How's the pedal spacing to you - can you heel-and-toe on it? How's the seating position to you? How's the steering feel/steering ratio to you? How does the brake/brake pedal feel to you? I haven't heard.
Thanks for supporting a good cause.
+dongypooh A lot of that is covered in the interior section of the video maybe you didnt catch it. Pedal spacing is ok but footwell intrusion on accelerator pedal is bad along with deflection. Harder to heel toe with larger feet. Steering feel is ok similar to ST and steering rack is quick but with poor turning circle. I terms of reliability, it's a Focus so any issues from that platform will be here and even more exaggerated from the ST. The hard ride will also do a number on interior panels and expect NVH and rattles. And lastly driver position is bad, we talk about that in supplemental video.
Bro, did you even watch the video? He covered all those questions
The quality of your video production is savage.
So is the goose, of course.
Can you do a review on a 2018 final edition RS? I've been told improvements were made to the ride quality & would love to here your points-of-view on the 2018s?
i can do that for you. Harder steering feel because lsd, bit lower sitting position , no issues after 10k. Michelin PSS are more than capable and durable for street and fast roads/ curves! I drive on normal suspensions settings, but even stiff mode is not like him on video lol. 22 mpg. PPF all over the paint to prevent paint chips. Fun, fun and more fun :)
@@Guillaume0688 Interesting, are you saying that the 201i comes with mechanical LSD in the front while the 16's and 17's didn't have it? Or you installed the LSD on your own? Thanks.
@@bokiNYC every edition rs has LSD installed from factory
I really enjoyed this video. It's important to remind prospective buyer's of some of the pitfalls in buying a factory "tuner" car while enjoying some of the nice things about it. Given the massive dealer markup, reported overheating of the rear drive unit (dare not call it a diff) and some of the minor issues with driving position I am very glad there are some reviewers who didn't jump on the bandwagon.
I paid MSRP. My son and I drove the car for a combined -8 30 minute sessions. 6 of which were back to back with very minimal cool off at blackhawk farms raceway @ low 80's temp.
Zero overheating issues. Oil temps fine. Zero brake fade. Passed many 'fast' cars in Intermediate group.
I just did 5 sessions at Autobahn. Driving position is perfect, height adjustable.
This car is a dream, reporting first hand. the driving dynamics sublime.
Does not understeer where other 'brands' will. Because as the lead engineer reported "Understeer sucks"
Bought myself an ST, first actual car purchase after my 2003 Mustang which I got for a whopping grand as a first car. That being said, coming from an old mustang the ST/RS is a really big treat, especially to a young driver. I did actually work for a dealership for some time, and had many opportunities to drive everything from Mustang GTs, Raptors, a GT350 (once) as well as the various other ST cars such as the Fiesta, Edge, and Explorer before I found my new job. I found the ST series very appealing for the same reasons Savage disliked it. It doesn't look like a $25,000 car (not what I paid for mine), but handles very nicely. With minor modifications, I was able to take my ST and turn it into a street-pounding little sleeper. And that feeling of pride and ownership of something so seemingly innocuous that will take the wind out of many sails is my #1 turn on about these cars.
That being said, I really disliked the overall presentation of the video. Narration was outright dour and the only reason I almost finished the video was hoping something would perk this guy's attitude up. This was my first time watching videos from this channel, and likely the last. Which sucks, because this guy knows what he's doing but he can't do it in a way that's satisfying to watch. If Jeremy Clarkson can say the RS200 handles like shit and within 30 seconds lose his ever-loving mind when the boost kicks in, there's no reason this guy can't either. Maybe it has something to do with living in Shitcago.
Well this guy is as his name suggests. Straight savage. His is a critical analyst not a comedic satirical entertainer like Clarkson. Watch his other videos and even though he is usually morose, the quality, information and detail are unmatched by other reviewers.
Do the back seats not come up like in the focus ST? The seat itself comes up against the back of the front seats and then the back part of the back seats can fold flat. Does the RS not do this?
Awesome review like usual, letting the average buyer know the true details of what the car will be like. At one point I was very interested in getting one, but have moved on. It ended up being way over hyped and looks much better on paper than the road. I still love the styling and the fact that its a hot hatch. Most manufacturers are dragging their feet with them.
TheMiata
Drive one...lol Anyone that does, loved it!
There is a comfort/normal setting which is fine on US roads so no issue...the car beats cars that cost 2, 3, and even 4 times as much on various tracks and is a very fun daily driver on normal roads.
Problem is that half the things he bangs on about can be turned off with a single button press.
Nobody should need to drive the car on track mode on the road if you look at the settings differences between modes, to me I'd say he's exposed for knowing less about the car than he'd like you to believe.
My RS is an amazing car.... the handling and the way it slices through traffic on the expressways and parkways.... this suspension mode he is trashing is the track mode... you can disable the stiff dampers on the fly as there is a button on the blinker stalk and also the seats do fold flat he just didn't know that. He nit picked this car... didn't even mention drift mode which is basically RWD mode.
Always some clown that knows it all?RS is the best handling I've set my ass in ever!!Have driven many super cars you should be reviewing second hand lawnmowers.
We use Skilcraft products at work... The quality is spotty. Highlighters and dry erase markers - might as well forget about them, they dry up before they are out of the box. The only really goodness to trueness Skilcraft product I use is their Skilcraft Government pens. They were in the news a few years ago that offered to sell them to the general public. These had to pass a stringent set of military requirements, like write continuously for 1 mile or 5280 feet. There are anecdotal tales of using the spring for a gun part in a worst case scenario, and the pen tube for an emergency tracheotomy, or how the outer diameter of the pen is identical to that of a 5.56 round so it can be used to help your buddy pass qualification at the range. I have been using the same one for over 2 years of everyday writing at work. It's still just as good as a new one out of the box. The Skilcraft steno books are also good for taking notes, but I found Five Star to offer more durable and better memo books in the commercial market.
Not sure what kind of cars you guys are expecting for 40K car but focus RS is pretty up there in terms of engineering and performance. It is a great performing car based on a cheap economy platform with specially designed bits that makes them "special." It competes well with the other similar offering of the market and arguably hits a better balance between performance and comfort for the car enthusiasts. No of course it is not a race car and never intended to do extensive track work. It is designed to do everyday driving while being fun sometimes. It is not a Viper ACR where the car is never intended for daily driving and barely meets all the legal requirements to be able to be driven on the public road. The chassis design is never intended for handling so to make it work well under pressure the suspension tune makes the ride feel like crap. I feel the video is intended more to educate the fan boy of the car who expects it to be something it is not, but lets not discredit the amount of work went into this car. It is already hard to make a sporty car to hit the market already with all the emission and stuff. Lets not discredit this one too early.
Toby Zhang it is an upgraded ST with a half assed 4x4 that got packaged a gimmick drift mode and marketed by Ken block. Don't kid yourself.
For 40k u can get plenty of much much faster better looking better built cars used. Its overpriced for what it is.
Your videos have always been quality. Yet you doing the fundraising shout out made me donate to help. Dunno if it's that I'm just getting older but that's a nice thing you did there to help. please keep up the great reviews and edits.
@29:54 lol. your videos keeping me on my toes as always.
Tyler Watthanaphand Breastfeeding at a gentleman's club? Well then......
You can lay the seats flat if you lift the base of this rear seat up. Also if you take of the head rests the front seats have plenty of room!
Let's Focus on what this car is really all about.
why buy new? I have just bought a ST170 and spent £4k on it making it new, fast and reliable. I love it
It sucks that the only local dealership that has one of these marked it up 25k over msrp.
Pretty fucking stupid because they have a GT350 that is about 5 grand cheaper.
Thank god the one I ordered 2 weeks ago didn't have that ADM lol!
But the GT350 is heavy and far less engaging. It's a cruiser not a performance car. For that money and sector I'd be looking at E92 M3's.
Protip: The rear seat headrests are removable. So you don't have to push the front seats all the way forward.
Sounds like you came into the review wanting to hate it.
did you adjust the dampers at all to the softest setting? That and maybe 17 or 18" would help.
As much respect as I have for the geese boys. This is my least favorite review. It's just so tonedeaf.
Saying that an RS is uncomfortable and not the best on track is truly objective. But the idea that most people actually go to the track with the car they daily is kind of a joke. It's a fun car to drive around town and drift around in slick weather. We're talking about a hot hatch. This is typical critic speak where they take a screwdriver and say "it's terrible for nails." They say it every time there's a muscle car. "This muscle car can't turn." or "this economy car is slow." like we're taking their strengths and turning them into weaknesses. Not every car can be a Porsche 911 Turbo S.
Muscle cars are fast on highways where they belong. Economy cars are extremely efficient, as intended. And the Focus RS is one of the most fun cars you can drive for under $40,000 STILL in 2022. This isn't meant to set lap times or crush corvettes and GTRs. Did they talk like this every time a WRX came out? It's meant to be an incredible handling fun daily for people who can only have one car. It beats almost everything in fun and handling and acceleration even close to the price range. The Type R and the Focus RS are one of the best cars you can do that with. Spending half the video talking about how it's not gonna destroy tracks is like complaining the entire time about space with a miata, and I love how they gave the Miata respect but not the RS. And I love both but it's really telling that one is a slow but fun handling car that's borderline useless as a daily and it gets high marks meanwhile this gets chopped down for being fast, fun and practical.|
I feel like Savage Geese said "I don't like all this praise and hype. Time to go the other way." which is indicated by the beginning memes. So I feel like he's biased against it because of hype not the car.
Great review! Thank you for helping me to cross this car off my want list. Not to mention my recent unpleasant experience at an Idaho Ford dealership where they refused to let me test drive a used (25,000 mile) 2017 Shelby GT350.
Good work on the review, I've been watching each one, and the honesty / "in the shoppe" are probably the best parts. There is one correction to be made on this vid: The back seats do fold flat, if you lift up the rear seat bottoms up, it craeates a flat cargo space, almost as good as the Fit.
Thank you for that, noted on the seats.
i love your reviews....I saw a lot of Ford RS reviews videos / written reviews. I thought to myself I think most of they were "paid" for their reactions. I happy to see you doing this review like your past reviews and go deep down to things about the cars that you review. Thank you for being so honest and not being "paid" to make it seem this is the Car of the Year for Ford.
The ford focus RS, the car you imagine you want, when you really just need an ST
Yep! The ST is clearly a better daily, especially with the ST1 pkg. & normal seats.
Says every St owner
They're the same car after 2 laps on the track.
I have the RS and ST and disagree. If you use the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S with the correct street use tire pressure, the RS is not that bad. Tire pressure is the key - and don't use the sport suspension setting.
Thank you sir.
I have watched tons of car reviewers, but this guy is another level. Thanks man
I drove the Focus RS when they were released and the Ford dealerships were no longer treating them like the holy grail and would let you go for a test drive. I found it to be gimmicky, and that's coming from a guy who commutes in an Abarth. I think the Golf R is a better car but then you're dealing with VW dealers for service and that's hit or miss. I hope to see the Mazdaspeed 3 in the next couple of years or at the very least the CX5 with the 2.5L turbo.
They still treat them like the holy grail. You just got lucky. And there is nothing gimmicky about the car outside of the garbage pumped in sound. Everything has it's purpose and function., and does it well.
To me, the drift mode, the digital sound, and the pops and gurgles that have been added in the tune which seem to happen when the conditions wouldn't naturally call for it (similar to Mini) are all gimmicks. I also think a lot of the driving dynamics could have been retained with a more compliant ride but consumers think race cars are stiff so Ford went that route.
Like every car, it has its flaws but I agree it has accomplished some pretty impressive things and I'm interested to see the evolution of the RS.
Opinions are great things, everyone gets to have their own.
Jason Lillis --- IMO, 95% of the problem is that it has 19" wheels. If you put some nice (but old-fashioned) 17x9" on there, I'm sure it would instantly be 10 times more comfortable. :)
It would definitely improve the ride. I'm also a fan of smaller wheels and meatier tires for looks,ride and stability. Performance cars are essentially toys and in most cases if there's something you don't like about a car the aftermarket has the answer but of course there's usually a trade off.
I remember going to a cars and coffee with a Focus RS and people surrounded it like vultures while praising it, I knew what the car was but I frankly just didn't care. lol
I had a 2016 FiST.
Those recaros are some of the best seats I’ve ever had in a car.
If you’re bigger or a passenger ..
you’ll hate them (anyone that had been a passenger hated them).
Now I’m driving a Veloster N .. good seats. Not I miss that bear hug feeling on those recaros .. and the way higher lateral G forces of the N could use seats like the recaros