Which Ford Focus Is the Fastest? The Ultimate Guide to Speed, Style, and Power

If you’ve ever sat behind the wheel of a Ford Focus, you already know it’s more than just a car—it’s an experience. But here’s the question that ignites curiosity among car lovers and adrenaline seekers alike: Which Ford Focus is the fastest?

From turbocharged hatchbacks to rally-ready beasts, the Focus lineup has seen some absolute rockets over the years. In this deep dive, we’ll peel back every layer of the Focus performance spectrum—from everyday models to the limited-edition speed demons that made jaws drop and hearts race.

Understanding the Ford Focus Legacy

Before we hit the accelerator, let’s rewind. The Ford Focus wasn’t born to be just another compact car. When it debuted in 1998, it aimed to combine practicality, efficiency, and a spark of driving thrill.

Over time, that spark evolved into full-blown fire—with Ford’s engineers channeling racing DNA straight into models like the Focus ST and the legendary Focus RS.

The Focus became a global icon—one that could commute quietly Monday through Friday and rip through corners on the weekend.

The Performance DNA of the Ford Focus

So, what makes a Focus fast? It’s not just horsepower.

A true performance Focus blends:

• Engine Power: Turbocharged precision delivering rapid acceleration.
• Weight Distribution: Tight, balanced handling.
• Aerodynamics: A low-slung body to slice through air.
• Transmission Tuning: Swift, decisive gear shifts for that raw driving connection.

It’s this harmony of power and agility that defines every performance-oriented Focus variant.

The Fastest Ford Focus Models Ever Built

Now we’re at the fun part—the speed showdown. Let’s line up the contenders and see which one claims the title of fastest Ford Focus ever made.

Ford Focus RS (2016–2018) — The King of the Pack

If you ask any enthusiast, the 2016–2018 Focus RS is the pinnacle of Ford’s performance engineering.

This beast came equipped with:

• 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged engine
• 350 horsepower & 350 lb-ft of torque
• 0–60 mph in just 4.6 seconds
• Top speed: 165 mph

Oh, and did we mention it’s all-wheel drive? That means grip for days and the ability to tear through corners like a rally car.

In simple terms, the Focus RS isn’t just fast—it’s ferocious.

Ford Focus ST (2013–2019) — The Everyday Powerhouse

If the RS is the untamed wolf, the Focus ST is its street-savvy sibling.

The ST runs on a:

• 2.0L turbocharged EcoBoost engine
• 252 horsepower & 270 lb-ft of torque
• 0–60 mph in 5.9 seconds
• Front-wheel drive setup

The Focus ST manages to balance comfort, practicality, and blistering performance. It’s the car you can daily-drive without sacrificing fun.

Ford Focus ST (2019–2020) — The Refined Reboot

The next-generation Focus ST (post-2019) took refinement to another level. Powered by a 2.3L EcoBoost engine—the same engine family used in the RS—it delivered:

• 276 horsepower
• 310 lb-ft of torque
• 0–60 mph in 5.7 seconds

It wasn’t quite as wild as the RS, but it struck a balance between speed, sophistication, and control.

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Ford Focus RS500 (2010) — The Limited Edition Monster

Only 500 of these were ever made, and they’re now collector’s gold.

This track-bred hatchback featured:

• 2.5L turbocharged inline-5 engine
• 345 horsepower
• 0–60 mph in 5.4 seconds
• Top speed: 163 mph

The RS500 took the already thrilling Focus RS Mk2 and turned it up to 11. It was raw, loud, and borderline intimidating—but in the best way possible.

Ford Focus ST170 (2002–2004) — The Original Hot Hatch

Before the ST badge became famous, there was the ST170—the model that started it all.

It featured:

• 2.0L Duratec engine
• 170 horsepower
• 0–60 mph in 7.9 seconds

While it seems tame today, back then, it was Ford’s declaration that the Focus could do more than just commute—it could compete.

The Fastest Ford Focus Ever: Crown Goes To...

Drum roll, please…

🏆 The 2016–2018 Ford Focus RS remains the fastest Ford Focus ever built, with its 0–60 mph sprint in under 5 seconds and a top speed of 165 mph.

The RS isn’t just fast—it’s a statement of Ford’s mastery in blending raw energy with precise control. It’s the closest thing to driving a rally car on public roads without breaking the law.

Why the Focus RS Reigns Supreme

Here’s what makes the RS untouchable:

• All-Wheel Drive: Grip and traction in all conditions.
• Drift Mode: Yes, it literally lets you drift—engineered into the car by Ford Performance.
• Track-Ready Handling: Adjustable suspension and advanced differential systems.
• Turbocharged Beast: The same engine platform found in the Mustang EcoBoost.

In essence, the RS doesn’t just accelerate—it attacks the road.

Comparing Speed – Focus RS vs. Focus ST

When it comes to sheer numbers, the RS dominates—but the ST models hold their own as more practical daily drivers.

The Powertrain Evolution – How Ford Did It

Ford’s mastery lies in how it evolved the Focus powertrain over the years:

• From naturally aspirated engines to turbocharged EcoBoosts
• From front-wheel drive to advanced AWD systems
• From manual-only to dual-clutch transmissions

This evolution didn’t just improve performance—it redefined what compact cars could do.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

Speed isn’t everything. Handling defines the soul of a performance car.

The Focus RS, with its torque-vectoring AWD and finely tuned suspension, feels planted and nimble even at high speeds. The ST, on the other hand, gives that traditional front-wheel-drive thrill—more predictable, slightly lighter, and incredibly responsive.

The Soundtrack of Speed – Exhaust Notes That Roar

There’s something musical about a Ford Focus RS in full throttle. That deep, crackling exhaust note is pure adrenaline.

The ST sings a different tune—refined, punchy, but a little less aggressive. Both, however, remind us that fast cars aren’t just about numbers—they’re about emotion.

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What About Electric and Hybrid Focus Models?

Ford’s future is electric, but let’s be clear: none of the electric Focus variants match the raw speed of the RS or ST.

The Focus Electric, for instance, topped out at around 84 mph and took nearly 10 seconds to hit 60 mph. Great for city life—but not for thrill seekers.

How Fast Is Fast Enough?

Here’s the thing: even the “slower” Focus models are fun. The secret lies in the Focus chassis—it’s balanced, communicative, and forgiving.

You don’t always need 350 horsepower to have fun. But knowing you could have it? That’s the allure of the Focus RS.

Real-World Driving Experience

We can talk stats all day, but in real-world conditions, the Focus RS feels alive.

Whether carving corners on mountain roads or merging onto highways, it feels like it wants to play. The steering is precise, the throttle immediate, and the brakes confidence-inspiring.

If you love driving, you’ll love this car.

Collectibility and Future Value

With the Focus RS discontinued, it’s already climbing in value. Enthusiasts are hoarding clean examples, and prices on the used market reflect that demand.

If you ever spot a well-kept RS for sale—grab it before someone else does. It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of Ford history.

The Verdict – Which Ford Focus Is the Fastest?

Let’s settle it once and for all:

• Fastest overall: Ford Focus RS (2016–2018)
• Most exclusive: Ford Focus RS500 (2010)
• Best balance of speed and practicality: Focus ST (2019)
• Most nostalgic: Focus ST170 (2002)

The RS stands alone, not just for its stats but for its spirit. It’s the Focus that redefined performance for compact cars worldwide.

Final Thoughts – Speed with Soul

The beauty of the Ford Focus lineup is that it proves speed doesn’t require a supercar price tag. Whether you’re tearing through backroads or simply admiring that RS badge in your driveway, one thing’s certain—Ford built a legend.

So, which Ford Focus is the fastest? The RS wins that race—but every Focus with an ST or RS badge carries the same DNA of fun, freedom, and fearless speed.

FAQs

1. Which Ford Focus model has the most horsepower?

The 2016–2018 Focus RS leads with 350 horsepower from its 2.3L EcoBoost engine.

2. What’s the top speed of the Ford Focus RS?

It can reach a top speed of 165 mph, making it the fastest Focus ever produced.

3. Is the Focus ST still worth buying?

Absolutely. The ST offers strong performance, a sporty feel, and practicality at a lower cost than the RS.

4. Why was the Focus RS discontinued?

Ford discontinued it due to changing emissions regulations and a shift toward electric models.

5. Will Ford make another Focus RS?

As of now, there are no confirmed plans—but with Ford’s performance legacy, never say never.

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