Focus RS - Test drive underwhelming

[Russ_H]

I'm on the hunt for a replacement for my Golf R which goes back in April so arranged a test drive of a Focus RS with high expectations.
On paper the RS offers a useful BHP and torque advantage over the Golf R but in reality felt relatively slow

Steering feel & handling both better than the golf but the engine was as flat as a pancake.
The demonstrator only had 150 miles on the clock so I can only put this down to a tight motor. In comparison the motor in my Golf has been loosened nicely

Didn't help the overall impression of the car during the test drive that there was a loud rattle coming from the passenger side door.

Any comments from owners? Does the engine noticeably free up with miles?
Is there anyone in the Midlands area that can take me out in an RS that's been nicely loosened?

Cheers

Edited by Russ_H on Wednesday 18th January 18:19

[Tuvra]

I thought the RS felt slow as well in a straight line in comparison. I put it down to the car being tight and also put my mind at ease by knowing that eventually I will have the Mountune kit fitted. As you said, it feels a lot more playful in the bends compared to the R so I have no doubt it will be more fun overall.

Good value, expected good residuals and the lairy looks had me signing on the dotted line and I collect tomorrow.

Funnily enough I'll be in Birmingham next weekend, obviously the car won't be freed up by then though so no use offering to take you out in it

[evofour]

The power delivery is very linear, so you never get a real shove in the back except if you try out the launch control (for no justifiable reason).
I've done 2000 miles in mine and have got used to the power delivery being flat - it reminds me of the old Golf V6 4motion in that regard. Great fun and is quick in the real world, but I will eventually add the warranty-friendly Mountune kit to spice things up.

I have tracked it at Silverstone in the cold and wet, so can confirm handling and traction are really good.

[caterham2]

My RS has 7500 kms on it now. I have a variety of performance cars, Torana XU1 in Group C race trim, a Caterham Clubman amongst other things. Thought mine was quite lively when I first took delivery, had nearly 4 weeks of really wet weather to contend with at this time( winter in Australia) and poor roads in the area where I live in Nth East Victorias high country. What I can tell you is that at about 1500 kms or so these things get a second wind. A friend in high places at Ford has told m the ECU is nobbled for initial break in. 1st and 2nd gear are also"torque limited" whatever that means, the acceleration and response in any other gear is quite " brisk" .The overboost function should open your eyes quite wide, if not you may need to spend about 3 times as much to be impressed. Next door neighbour reckons his Porsche would need it's neck wrung to keep up with mine.The RS is by far the most impressive car in my little collection, and the others are no slouches either.
Try and get a ride in a higher mileage one and see how it compares, and take your cheque book to place your order. Enjoy!!

[mike74]

Where is your Golf going in April?

[AJB88]

I had a Focus RS for the day, was really underwhelmed as well.

My daily car is a Stage 2 Cupra 280 (Approx 390ps) so the Leon will have a weight and power advantage but the RS just felt sluggish.

Only advantage was the amount of grip.

[Russ_H]

mike74 said:

Where is your Golf going in April?

Lease car
At this rate I'll probably extend the lease as there doesn't seem to be better all-rounder for sensible money.......shame, I was looking forward to change

[Russ_H]

caterham2 said:

Try and get a ride in a higher mileage one and see how it compares, and take your cheque book to place your order. Enjoy!!

I was all set to sign on the dotted line after the test drive but it was a bit meh.
I need a go a higher mileage RS before crossing it off the list