2016 Ford LZ Focus RS Hatchback

Description

Launched in 2016, Ford’s third generation Focus RS became the first to employ all-wheel drive, using a highly sophisticated system enabling Dynamic Torque Vectoring to allow power to split not only front-to-rear but also from side-to-side for incredible road holding. Another break from tradition saw the Duratec motor used in earlier Focus RS models replaced by a substantially more powerful all-alloy 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder unit boasting a twin-scroll turbocharger and overboost function. Punching out 257kW and 440Nm of torque between 2000-4500rpm, a massive 470Nm was available with the overboost function for up to 15 seconds during acceleration. Other high-tech features included Launch Control and four drive modes – Normal, Sport, Track and Drift, while the dampers were also adjustable. Sold only in five-door guise, the new LZ Focus RS featured partial leather Recaro front seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and Ford’s latest SYNC connectivity system. Other notable features include 19-inch forged alloy rims, Michelin Pilot Super Sports rubber and Brembo brakes with four pot calipers up front and single pistons at the rear. Exclusively assembled at Ford’s Saarlouis, Germany plant, the rally-bred Focus RS went on sale in Australia with a list price of $50,990 and was sold in the hero Nitrous Blue, Frozen White, Shadow Black or Magnetic Grey. Arguably the ultimate hot hatch, the Focus RS could hit 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds and was rated by many as the best performance car on the market under $100,000, routinely outscoring the likes of AMG’s A45, Volkswagen Golf R or the Audi RS3. With Ford unlikely to build another Focus, the third generation RS is all but guaranteed future collector status.