“Ford Focus RS is one of those rare cars that gets massive hype, then still delivered beyond our wildest expectations. Not only is it a great deal on paper as a practical, all-wheel-drive hatchback, but it leaps right to the top of the hot-hatch segment with 350 horsepower, an enthusiast’s-choice manual transmission and, best of all, its engaging character.”
That's what Jonathan Yarkony, group editorial director for AutoGuide, had to say about the 2017 Ford Focus RS. The year's hottest hatchback recently went up against some tough competition for five straight days of intense testing. When all was said and done, the Focus RS rolled away in first place, winning the AutoGuide.com 2017 Car of the Year award.
Motivating the Focus RS is a turbocharged 2.3-liter, four-cylinder, EcoBoost power plant that produces 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. It recently earned its own accolade, being named to WardsAuto's 10 Best Engines list.
“It’s an honor to earn the Car of the Year award from AutoGuide.com,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance. “The success of Focus RS throughout 2016 is testament to the entire Ford team who put all of their energy into creating such a special car that captures the hearts of driving enthusiasts everywhere.”
The @Ford Focus RS Wins https://t.co/6dQBo9AR19 2017 Car of the Year Award. Congrats, Ford!! https://t.co/P7EhBNGs3g #AGCOTY #Ford pic.twitter.com/BwSq1TiYjy
— AutoGuide.com (@AutoGuide) December 13, 2016