What does Ford RS stand for?
Fast Fords are some of the most-desirable hot hatches, but what does the RS badge on the back actually mean?
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What does Ford RS stand for?
Many believe Ford RS stands for ‘Racing Sport’, but this isn’t the case. The acronym actually stands for ‘Rallye Sport’, and refers to a time when classic Fords were dominating rally driving.
There are plenty of modern Ford RS models for you to get your hands on. They're ideal if you want something functional but a lot of fun to drive.
History of the RS badge
The RS badge was first used on a Ford in the 1970s called the RS1600, which was a high-performance version of the popular Ford Escort.
That’s not so much the case these days, and instead is slapped on the back of performance models such as the Ford Focus RS.
How the RS models differ from standard models
If you put an ordinary Ford Focus next to a Focus RS, you will notice many similarities but also lots of differences.
Because the RS is based on the same car, it looks the same but features a small rear-mounted spoiler, a more aggressive front splitter, and (often) a bright Nitros Blue paint job.
It also comes with an excellent all-wheel-drive system and an uprated engine with a meaty exhaust note. You won’t be missing this car going past your house, that’s for sure.
You can also grab one of these used Ford cars at a lower price point on the pre-owned market, saving money on brand-new models.
What are they like to drive?
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Behind the wheel, the Focus RS instantly feels more special than a standard Focus.
It’s more responsive and sportier thanks to its performance-oriented yet still economical 2.3-litre petrol engine that produces 350hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, making it the fastest Focus ever made.
With this setup, the RS can propel itself from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds and onto a top speed of 165mph.
It sounds phenomenal too, thanks to its exhaust system that creates some unholy pops and bangs on the overrun before some calculated and physical downshifts with its manual gearbox.
But faster examples of the Focus do exist, including Mountune’s Focus ST 365hp creation with stickier tyres.
Interior and technology
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Inside, the Focus RS lets you know it’s special thanks to added blue accents on the Recaro racing seats and the ‘RS’ logo that pops up on the infotainment screen when you switch it on.
It even has a trio of new gauges on top of the dashboard that show oil temperature, oil pressure and boost psi.
Aside from this, it’s just like every other Focus, with air-conditioning, a great SYNC3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a media system with Bluetooth connectivity.
Boot space and practicality
Boot space and practicality are the same in the RS as in the standard Focus, giving you 316 litres of space in the boot and plenty of overall storage space throughout the cabin.
There’s plenty of space for passengers too, with ample legroom and head space in the rear.
Safety and reliability
Since it’s based on the Ford Focus family car, the Focus RS is very safe and reliable.
It scored a full five stars in its most recent Euro NCAP crash testing and is packed full of safety features such as airbags, pedestrian automatic emergency braking, speed assistance and a lane assistance system.
It’s reliable too, thanks to its tried-and-tested engine parts and solid build quality. Ford has been making the Focus since 1999, so it’s safe to say you can trust it in this department.
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Size and dimensions
Ford Focus RS
Length: 4,382mm
Width: 1,825mm
Height: 1,471mm
Who is the RS best suited to?
The Ford Focus RS is best suited to someone who enjoys driving. Sure, anyone can get in an RS and drive it, but those who appreciate every gear change and love a good exhaust note will ‘get’ this car.
It closely rivals the Audi RS3, Volkswagen Golf R and Honda Civic Type-R, so its competition is fierce, but it stacks up well.
Now you know what Ford RS stands for and have heard the highlights of these models, browse our used Ford RS options to see if there's one that catches your eye.