Are Ford Focus RS rare?
The Focus RS sits at the rarified end of mainstream hot hatches. It was produced in a limited run from 2016 to 2018, and distribution varied by region, making clean, low-mileage examples comparatively scarce on today’s used-car market.
What makes this model stand out is not just its performance — a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual — but the relatively short production window and selective availability. This article breaks down how many were built, where they went, and what that means for buyers and collectors today.
Production history and regional reach
Here's a snapshot of the global footprint and distribution across major markets.
- Production years: 2016–2018 (MK3 Focus RS)
- Global unit estimate: commonly cited around 50,000–60,000 units
- Regional split: Europe accounted for the largest share; North America received a smaller, tightly allocated portion
- US channel: a few thousand units across the model’s US run
- Current status: no new Focus RS models since 2018; the cars survive primarily in the used market
Taken together, these figures explain why the Focus RS is considered rare among mainstream hatchbacks: a brief production window and uneven regional distribution limited how many cars reached buyers worldwide.
Market takeaway
For buyers and enthusiasts, rarity translates into tighter supply relative to ordinary Focus variants, especially in markets with restricted allocations. The result is heightened interest in well-preserved examples with clear provenance.
Rarity in today’s market
Used-market dynamics and ongoing enthusiasm shape how rare the Focus RS feels to shoppers today. Although a practical hot hatch by standards, its limited production and eventual discontinuation keep the model in demand among enthusiasts while keeping supply constrained.
- Transmission: all Focus RS models were sold with a 6-speed manual transmission only
- Drivetrain and performance: turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine producing roughly 350 horsepower with all-wheel drive
- Availability today: no new cars since 2018; remaining units vary by region and condition
- Buying factors: mileage, maintenance history, originality, color, and overall condition strongly influence value
In short, the Focus RS remains relatively rare within the broader automotive market due to its production limits and the elapsed time since production ended, even as demand among enthusiasts persists.
Summary
The Ford Focus RS stands out as a rare participant in the hot-hatch segment because of its constrained production run from 2016 through 2018 and uneven regional allocations. While not a collectible supercar, it retains strong appeal for enthusiasts, especially in well-maintained, low-mileage examples. If you’re shopping today, expect scarcity to influence price and availability, and prioritize provenance and condition when assessing value.
