Used Ford Focus review: 2010-2011

NEW - Ford has always used performance as a selling tool, well, that is except for a few periods where it appeared to be trying to re-invent itself. Over the years the RS badge has been a major part of the company's go-fast image, only the RS500 has topped it.

So it was rather comforting to see the company launch the Focus RS, a genuine no-holds-barred performance version of the Focus in 2010.

It wasn't cheap, but it could justify its lofty $59,990 price tag by its genuine claims of being able to compete with the likes of the VW Golf GTi and Subaru WRX STi, the benchmarks in the go-fast class. Ford said the RS was all about overt performance and it wasn't kidding.

One look at it, with its vibrant colours, pumped guards filled with massive 19-inch alloy wheels, plunging front spoiler and twin-plane rear wing was enough to tell you it meant business.

When pressed to the limit it would accelerate to 100 km/h in some six seconds and rush on to a maximum speed in excess of 200 km/h. Lift the bonnet and you found a turbocharged five-cylinder engine that pumped out 224 kW, that's 300 horsepower in proper RS terms, and 440 Nm of stump-extracting torque.

A six-speed manual backed the engine, no autos here folks, and it fed a special Quaife limited-slip differential at the front. The suspension was tweaked to eliminate torque-steer, something that can ruin high-powered front-wheel drive cars, and it worked a treat.

Huge alloy wheels and specially developed low-profile tyres, sharper steering and big brakes all chipped in to help the RS perform. Inside, it was suitably sporty with sports seats, a chunky steering wheel, short-throw shifter, alloy pedals and extra dials.

Backing all of that up was a comprehensive array of safety systems, from ABS braking to ESP stability control and a full complement of airbags.

NOW

With only 315 RS models imported there aren't a lot around to choose from, nevertheless it's important to shop around and do your homework before plunging in. Cars like the RS are usually bought by people with a tendency to use the performance, often to its full extent, and sometimes on the track.

It can be hard to resist a race when you drive a hot looking and performing car like the RS, and many owners are willing to put them to the test when the chance comes up. With that in mind it's important to thoroughly check any car under consideration for purchase before handing over any cash.

Look for any sign of hard use, from bumps and scrapes on the bodywork and wheels, wear on tyres and brakes, clutch wear, and certainly any modifications that might have been made.

Modifications can present issues down the track because engines, clutches, gearboxes, brakes and suspensions are put under extra pressure they're not designed for. It's best to walk away from a car that's been modified rather than take the risk.

Servicing is critical with any car, but it's more critical with a performance car, especially one with a turbocharged engine like the RS. With that in mind check the service record of your potential purchase, and if it's been done by anyone but a Ford dealer check their bona fides so you have confidence in what has been done.

SMITHY SAYS

Ford's got a performance hero, but it's not for the faint-hearted.

Ford Focus RS 2010-2011

Price new: $59,990
Engine: 2.5-litre 5-cylinder turbo, 224 kW/440 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual, FWD
Economy: 10.4 L/100 km
Body: 3-door hatch
Variants: RS
Safety: 5-star ANCAP