Whats better, Ford Focus ST or RS?
The Focus RS is the sharper performer with all‑wheel drive and more horsepower, while the Focus ST delivers stronger value and better everyday usability. Note that Ford currently markets these models as used-vehicle opportunities in most regions, not as new offerings, and availability varies by market.
The question of which is “better” hinges on what you want from a hot hatch: raw speed and track capability, or practical daily usability and lower ownership costs. This article breaks down the key differences in performance, handling, practicality, and ownership to help you decide what matters most.
Performance and engineering
Below is a focused comparison of power, drivetrain, and ride characteristics that define how each car goes and feels on the road.
Powertrain and drivetrain
The Focus RS is Ford’s high‑performance all‑wheel‑drive hot hatch, powered by a turbocharged 2.3‑liter EcoBoost four that roughly delivers about 350 horsepower and well over 340 lb‑ft of torque. It uses an advanced AWD system with torque vectoring and multiple drive modes, including a drift-oriented setup for photographers and enthusiasts who chase sideways fun on a track or back roads. The Focus ST, by contrast, relies on a turbocharged 2.0‑liter EcoBoost, producing roughly 250–270 horsepower and around 270 lb‑ft of torque in its best‑spec iterations, paired with front‑wheel drive and a limited‑slip differential in many markets. Transmission choices are typically a six‑speed manual for both, with the RS emphasizing maximum grip and launch control.
Chassis, handling, and dynamics
The RS’ all‑wheel‑drive chassis delivers near‑supercar levels of grip, particularly in wet or slippery conditions, and it benefits from more aggressive suspension tuning, larger brakes, and a sophisticated drive‑mode system that emphasizes track capability and cornering confidence. The ST is lighter and more nimble in everyday corners, with keen steering and a chassis tuned for spirited street driving, but it doesn’t match the RS for raw grip or top‑end lunge. In practice, the RS feels more at home on a dry, open track, while the ST shines as a punchy, entertaining daily driver with a more accessible price point to maintain and operate.
Practicality and ownership costs
Here we look at how the two cars fare in daily life, including price, running costs, and long‑term ownership considerations.
In this section, you’ll find a concise list of how price, maintenance, and practicality compare, followed by a brief takeaway to help prioritize what matters most to you as a buyer.
- Price and depreciation: The RS generally carries a higher sticker price when new and tends to command strong resale value on the used market, especially for low‑mileage examples. The ST is typically more affordable to buy used and may depreciate less aggressively because it doesn’t push the performance ceiling as high as the RS.
- Daily drivability: The ST is the more comfortable daily driver, with a role more suited to regular commuting and weekend fun. The RS, while still practical as a hatch, takes a firmer ride and has a louder, more aggressive character that can be less comfortable for long daily trips.
- Fuel economy and running costs: The RS drinks more fuel and wears high‑cost performance tires and brakes sooner, raising operating expenses. The ST offers a more favorable balance of power and efficiency, though it is still a high‑performance car with higher maintenance than a mainstream hatch.
- Maintenance and repairs: Parts and servicing for the RS can be more expensive due to its more extreme drivetrain, Brembo brakes, and bespoke components. The ST, while still a performance model, generally enjoys lower maintenance costs and easier availability of parts in many markets.
- Insurance and reliability: Insurance tends to be higher for the RS because of its power and performance orientation, and potential owners should consider the wear and tear of track‑oriented usage. Both cars have solid reliability histories for their class, but keep in mind that a well‑maintained example will be more reliable than a high‑mileage car that has seen aggressive use.
Overall, the ST offers a more approachable ownership proposition for most buyers, while the RS appeals to those who place a premium on outright speed and track capability and are willing to pay for it.
Who should buy which?
If you want a practical, affordable hot hatch for daily driving that still has entertaining performance, the Focus ST is the smarter long‑term pick. If your priority is top‑tier speed, all‑weather grip, and a car that can handle track days with confidence, the Focus RS is the more compelling option—but only if you have the budget and space to maintain it properly in the used market.
Shopping considerations
When evaluating a used ST or RS, consider these factors to avoid common pitfalls and ensure you get the best value for your budget.
- Maintenance history and service records
- Overall mileage and wear on the drivetrain, tires, and brakes
- Previous track use or aggressive driving history
- Market availability and price fluctuations for RS versus ST
- Presence of original parts and documentation for key components
Note: As of today, Ford does not offer new Focus ST or RS models in most markets, so prospective buyers will be looking primarily at the used market. Availability and conditions vary by country and year, so consult local dealers and enthusiast communities for current options.
Summary
Bottom line: the Focus RS is the speed‑focused, all‑wheel‑drive option that delivers superior track capability and raw acceleration, while the Focus ST is the more affordable, livable hot hatch that still provides strong performance and practical usability. Your choice should hinge on how important speed and advanced all‑wheel dynamics are to you versus daily practicality, budget, and ownership costs. In any case, both remain standout options in the hot‑hatch segment when approached as used‑market buys rather than new cars.
