One of the most exciting releases this year is the Ford Focus RS, not just because it delivers 350hp and 350lb-ft torque from a tweaked 2.3L EcoBoost Mustang engine, but because the US market will be enjoying it for the first time.
It was believed that the Subaru WRX STI would stick it up to the Focus RS when the 2017 model is released. That has not happened, sadly, as upgrades to the Subaru performer have been minimal.
Fingers were crossed, hoping for Subaru to introduce a new 2.0L turbo boxer engine that generates 323hp and 317lb-ft torque, up from the 2.5L block worth 305hp and 290lb-ft on the 2016 US model. It seems like the latter will continue to be used.
Beyond Output Numbers
Nevertheless, the WRX STI can still rival the 0-60mph time of the Focus RS of 4.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver along with a few other tests. This could be due in large part to the Subaru Global Platform that significantly improves the driving dynamics of the performance sedan.
It’s a shame because the newer engine would have given the WRX STI better figures than the Focus RS.
That’s just one side of both vehicles though. Subaru fans would be disappointed that there is no newness to the WRX STI, which also deflated hopes when no hatch model was announced for 2017.
The Focus RS, on the other hand, is a mean drift machine that has the coveted approval of Ken Block and feels a much fresher offering to enthusiasts. That’s why it leaves the WRX STI with no chance in the coming months.
2016 Ford Focus Owner will get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay