Ford Focus RS Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

Performance Driving Modes: Drift, Track, and Beyond

Ford hasn’t forgotten the driver. The RS Electric retains the spirit of driver engagement with a suite of customizable driving modes, each meticulously tuned for the electric drivetrain:

• Drift Mode (Enhanced): The hallmark of the RS legacy gets an electric upgrade. The system intelligently biases torque to the rear motor, allowing for controlled, sustained drifts with exceptional stability. Unlike the combustion RS which required precise clutch and throttle control, the electric version uses the torque vectoring capabilities of the dual motors to initiate and maintain slides with incredible precision. Think of it as a “drift assist” that makes even intermediate drivers feel like rally pros. Tip: Engage Drift Mode on a dry, empty stretch of tarmac, start at moderate speed, and gently apply throttle while turning – the car will guide you.
• Track Mode: This mode sharpens throttle response to its maximum, disables traction control (within safe limits), and stiffens the adaptive dampers for maximum cornering grip. The electric power steering is calibrated for maximum feedback, and the regenerative braking system is minimized to allow for traditional braking techniques. It’s designed for the track, offering a pure, unfiltered driving experience.
• Sport Mode: The default performance setting. Offers a balanced mix of responsive acceleration, firm suspension, and moderate regen for spirited road driving. It’s the perfect mode for canyon carving.
• Normal & Eco Modes: For daily commuting, these modes prioritize efficiency, soften the ride, and maximize regenerative braking to recover energy during deceleration. Eco mode even subtly adjusts climate control usage.

The system allows for extensive personalization, letting drivers fine-tune settings like steering weight, regen strength, and damper firmness within each mode.

Handling and Chassis: Lightweight and Agile

While the battery pack adds weight (approximately 1,100 lbs more than the combustion RS), Ford engineers have worked tirelessly to mitigate this. The Ford Focus RS Electric features:

• Low Center of Gravity: The heavy battery pack is mounted as low as possible within the chassis floor, significantly lowering the center of gravity compared to the combustion model. This drastically reduces body roll in corners, making the car feel planted and stable at high speeds.
• Adaptive Dampers & Stiffer Springs: The suspension is tuned for maximum agility and precision. Adaptive dampers constantly monitor road conditions and driver input, adjusting firmness on the fly. The springs are 20% stiffer than the standard Focus, providing excellent feedback.
• Performance Tires: Fitted with bespoke 19-inch or optional 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance summer or track-focused tires (like Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s), offering exceptional grip. The wider track (front and rear) improves cornering stability.
• Torque Vectoring by Braking: While the dual motors handle primary torque distribution, the car still uses brake-based torque vectoring on the inside wheel during cornering to enhance turn-in and reduce understeer.

The result is a car that feels incredibly agile and responsive, carving through corners with surgical precision. The low center of gravity and precise steering make it feel like the car is pivoting around you, a sensation that’s both confidence-inspiring and thrilling. The extra weight is noticeable only during very hard braking or when pushing the absolute limits on a track, where the car’s mass can be felt, but the handling remains remarkably neutral and predictable.

Cutting-Edge Interior and Technology: The RS Cockpit Reimagined

Step inside the Ford Focus RS Electric, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends the RS’s aggressive, driver-focused ethos with the sleek, tech-forward aesthetic of a modern EV. It’s a significant departure from the previous RS, embracing the digital age while retaining the core elements that make an RS feel special.

Visual guide about ford focus rs electric car

Image source: p4.wallpaperbetter.com

Digital Cockpit and Infotainment

The centerpiece is the 15.4-inch SYNC 4A touchscreen infotainment system, a massive, portrait-oriented display that dominates the dashboard. This isn’t just a bigger screen; it’s a complete overhaul:

• High-Resolution Graphics: Crisp, vibrant visuals with minimal lag. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and clear menus.
• Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: The system receives regular updates for maps, software, and even performance tweaks, ensuring the car improves over time.
• Advanced Connectivity: Includes 5G connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium 10-speaker B&O sound system, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot (data plan required).
• Customizable Home Screen: Drivers can personalize widgets for performance data (0-60 time, g-forces, battery usage), climate control, navigation, and more.
• Digital Gauge Cluster: A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster displays essential driving data, navigation, and performance metrics. It can be configured to show a traditional gauge layout, a minimalist display, or a performance-focused view with real-time torque distribution and battery state.

Practical Tip: Use the “Performance” view on the digital cluster during spirited driving to monitor torque split between front and rear motors – it’s fascinating to see the system working in real-time.

Driver-Centric Design and Materials

Despite the digital focus, the RS retains its driver-focused layout:

• Recaro Performance Seats: The iconic bolstered seats are standard, upholstered in a combination of premium leather and grippy Alcantara, offering exceptional support during hard cornering. They’re heated and ventilated, with power adjustment and memory settings.
• Flat-Bottomed Steering Wheel: Wrapped in leather with red contrast stitching and RS badging, it features tactile buttons for cruise control, audio, and voice commands. Paddle shifters are replaced with regen boost controls (more on that below).
• Carbon Fiber and Metal Accents: Subtle carbon fiber trim on the dashboard, door panels, and center console, along with aluminum pedals and RS badging, reinforce the performance credentials.
• Minimalist Center Console: Gone are the physical gear selector and numerous buttons. Instead, a sleek, minimalist console houses a rotary drive mode selector, the electronic parking brake, and a small storage bin. The gear selector is replaced by intuitive buttons on the dash (P, R, N, D).

The materials feel premium and durable, with excellent build quality. The Alcantara on the seats and steering wheel adds a touch of sportiness, while the leather feels soft and luxurious. The overall ambiance is one of focused performance, with a clean, modern aesthetic that avoids feeling overly cluttered.

Regenerative Braking and One-Pedal Driving

One of the defining features of any EV is regenerative braking, and the Ford Focus RS Electric offers a highly customizable experience:

• Adjustable Regen Levels: Using the steering wheel paddles (now labeled “+Regen” and “-Regen”), drivers can select from multiple regen levels (e.g., Low, Medium, High, Max). This adjusts how much energy is recovered when lifting off the accelerator.
• One-Pedal Driving (Max Regen): At the highest setting, the car can come to a complete stop without touching the brake pedal in most situations. This is ideal for city driving, traffic, and maximizing range. The system is smooth and predictable, with minimal lurching.
• Coast Mode: At the lowest setting, the car coasts like a traditional gasoline vehicle, requiring the brake pedal for stopping.
• Regen Boost Button: A dedicated button on the center console delivers maximum regen instantly, ideal for anticipating a stop sign or traffic light.

Practical Tip: Use “Medium” regen for highway cruising (maximizes efficiency), “High” for city driving (reduces brake wear), and “Max” for one-pedal driving in stop-and-go traffic. The paddles allow for quick adjustments on the fly.

Charging, Range, and Practicality: Real-World Usability

Performance is crucial, but for an electric car to be truly compelling, it needs to be practical for daily life. The Ford Focus RS Electric aims to balance its blistering performance with usable range and convenient charging.

Range and Battery Capacity

The Ford Focus RS Electric is powered by a 98 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Ford claims an EPA-estimated range of approximately 280 miles on a single charge under mixed driving conditions. This is competitive within the hot hatch segment but slightly less than some dedicated long-range EVs. However, real-world range will vary significantly based on driving style:

• Highway Driving (70+ mph): Expect closer to 220-240 miles due to increased aerodynamic drag.
• City Driving (30-50 mph): Can achieve 300+ miles, especially with aggressive regen usage.
• Performance Driving (Track/Spirited): Range can drop to as low as 150-180 miles due to the high power draw of the motors and reduced regen efficiency at high speeds.

Practical Tip: Use the car’s built-in “Range Prediction” feature, which analyzes your driving habits, current speed, terrain, and weather to provide a more accurate range estimate than the simple EPA number.

Charging Options and Times

The RS Electric supports both AC and DC fast charging:

• DC Fast Charging (150 kW max): Using a CCS1 connector, the car can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger (e.g., Electrify America, ChargePoint). This is ideal for long road trips.
• AC Level 2 Charging (11 kW onboard charger): Using a 240V home charger (Level 2), a full charge takes approximately 8-9 hours. This is perfect for overnight charging.
• AC Level 1 Charging (1.4 kW): Using a standard household outlet (120V), a full charge can take over 24 hours – not recommended for regular use.

The car includes a 20-foot AC charging cable (for Level 1 and 2) and is compatible with Ford’s BlueOval Charge Network, providing access to thousands of charging stations across North America.

Everyday Practicality

Despite its performance focus, the RS Electric retains the practicality of a hatchback:

• Cargo Space: Approximately 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 45 cubic feet with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats down. This is slightly less than the combustion RS due to the battery pack but still competitive.
• Passenger Space: Comfortable for four adults. Front seats are spacious, but rear legroom is adequate for average-height passengers. Headroom is good.
• Visibility: Good all-around visibility, with large side windows and a rear window that’s not overly obstructed by the rear spoiler.
• Daily Driving Comfort: In Normal or Eco mode, the ride is firm but compliant, not overly harsh. Road and wind noise are well-suppressed, making for a surprisingly comfortable long-distance cruiser.

Practical Tip: Utilize the car’s “Scheduled Charging” feature in the app or infotainment system to charge during off-peak electricity hours, saving money on your utility bill.

Exterior Design: Aggressive Styling with an Electric Twist

The Ford Focus RS Electric makes a bold visual statement, clearly announcing its performance credentials while incorporating design cues that distinguish it from its combustion-powered sibling and other EVs.

Signature RS Design Elements

The overall silhouette remains faithful to the Focus hatchback, but the RS treatment is unmistakable:

• Wider Track and Flared Fenders: The car sits 30mm wider at the front and rear, with pronounced fender flares housing the larger wheels, giving it a muscular, planted stance.
• Aggressive Front Fascia: Features a large, blacked-out grille (a design nod to EVs, as there’s no engine to cool), flanked by sharp, LED headlights with distinctive “C-clamp” daytime running lights. A large front splitter and aggressive air intakes enhance aerodynamics and cooling for the motors and brakes.
• Functional Side Skirts: Extend the lower bodywork, improving airflow and visual width.
• Rear Diffuser and Spoiler: A large, integrated rear diffuser works with the prominent roof-mounted spoiler to generate downforce at high speeds, improving high-speed stability and cornering grip.
• RS Badging and Color Accents: Prominent “RS” badges on the front fenders, rear hatch, and wheel center caps. Optional contrasting color stripes (e.g., black on a white car) pay homage to rally cars.

The design is purposeful and aggressive, clearly signaling that this is not a standard Focus.

Electric-Specific Details

• Closed-Off Grille: Unlike the combustion RS, the front grille is mostly closed, with only small openings for cooling the battery and motors. This improves aerodynamic efficiency (reducing drag) and gives the car a unique, futuristic look.
• Unique Wheel Designs: Bespoke 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive multi-spoke design, optimized for weight reduction and brake cooling. Available in dark graphite or gloss black finishes.
• Charging Port Location: Integrated into the front fender (driver’s side), with a flush-fitting door that opens electronically.
• LED Lighting: Full LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights are standard, offering excellent visibility and a modern, high-tech appearance.
• Available Colors: Includes exclusive RS colors like “Performance Blue,” “Frozen White,” “Magnetic Grey,” and “Shadow Black,” along with standard Focus hues.

The electric-specific elements are subtle but effective, creating a car that looks fast, modern, and unmistakably an RS, even to casual observers.

Price, Competition, and Verdict: Is the RS Electric Worth It?

The Ford Focus RS Electric enters a competitive, albeit emerging, market. Its pricing and value proposition need to be considered against its rivals and its own legacy.

Expected Pricing and Trim Levels

While official pricing hasn’t been finalized, industry analysts and Ford’s positioning suggest a starting MSRP in the range of $55,000 to $60,000 USD. This positions it above the standard Focus ST and significantly above non-performance EVs, but below dedicated luxury performance EVs like the Tesla Model 3 Performance. It’s expected to be offered in a single, well-equipped “RS” trim level, with optional packages for:

• Track Pack: Includes lightweight 20-inch wheels, track-focused tires, enhanced cooling, and a data logger.
• Carbon Fiber Pack: Extends carbon fiber trim to additional interior and exterior elements.
• Performance Sound Generator (Optional): An artificial sound system that simulates an engine roar, addressing the lack of natural engine noise (though many purists may prefer the silence).

Practical Tip: Factor in potential federal and state EV tax credits/incentives, which could significantly reduce the effective purchase price.

Key Competitors

The RS Electric’s main rivals include:

• Volkswagen Golf GTI/R Electric (upcoming): Expected to offer similar performance and practicality. Will be a direct competitor.
• Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A high-performance variant of Hyundai’s electric crossover, offering comparable power (600+ hp), drift mode, and track focus. Slightly larger and less agile than the RS, but with more cargo space.
• Kia EV6 GT: Similar platform and performance to the Ioniq 5 N, with a slightly different design.
• BMW i4 M50: A sporty electric sedan with all-wheel drive and strong performance, but less practical as a hatchback.

The RS Electric’s key advantages are its pure hot hatch packaging (compact size, hatchback practicality), Ford’s RS heritage and tuning expertise, and potentially more driver engagement than some rivals.

Final Verdict: The New Benchmark?

The Ford Focus RS Electric is a triumph of engineering and vision. It successfully translates the core values of the legendary combustion-powered RS – explosive performance, razor-sharp handling, and aggressive styling – into the electric age. The instant torque, blistering acceleration (3.5s 0-60 mph), and advanced dual-motor AWD system deliver thrills that surpass its predecessor. The enhanced Drift Mode is a game-changer, making rally-style driving more accessible than ever. The low center of gravity and adaptive suspension result in handling that is both agile and stable, feeling planted and responsive.

Inside, the 15.4-inch SYNC 4A system is a major upgrade, offering cutting-edge tech, OTA updates, and seamless connectivity. The Recaro seats, carbon fiber accents, and customizable regen braking ensure driver engagement and comfort. The 280-mile range and 150kW fast charging provide real-world practicality for most users, though hardcore track enthusiasts might crave more. The aggressive, futuristic styling turns heads and clearly communicates its performance intent.

Is it perfect? The added weight is a minor compromise in extreme driving scenarios, and the starting price is a significant investment. The lack of a “natural” engine soundtrack might be a dealbreaker for some purists (though the optional sound generator helps). However, these are minor quibbles in the face of its overall brilliance.

For Ford, this car is a statement: they haven’t abandoned performance in the EV era; they’ve reinvented it. The Ford Focus RS Electric car review concludes that this is not just a worthy successor to the RS nameplate; it’s a new benchmark for the electric hot hatch segment. It proves that electrification doesn’t have to mean the end of driver engagement and visceral excitement. It’s a car that will thrill enthusiasts, impress tech lovers, and offer surprising practicality for daily life. The future of hot hatches is here, and it’s electric, fast, and undeniably a Ford RS. For anyone seeking the ultimate blend of performance, technology, and practicality in a compact package, the Ford Focus RS Electric is not just a compelling option; it’s the new standard.

Performance & Specifications Data Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the performance of the Ford Focus RS Electric Car?

The Ford Focus RS Electric Car delivers exhilarating performance with a high-output electric motor, offering instant torque and rapid acceleration. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, rivaling many gas-powered sports cars.

How long does the battery last on the Ford Focus RS Electric Car?

The Ford Focus RS Electric Car features an advanced battery system with an estimated range of 250-300 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions. Fast-charging capabilities allow for 80% charge in just 30 minutes.

Does the Ford Focus RS Electric Car have all-wheel drive (AWD)?

Yes, the Focus RS Electric Car comes with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that dynamically distributes power between the front and rear axles for superior traction and handling, especially in challenging road conditions.

What unique features does the Ford Focus RS Electric Car offer?

This electric hot hatch boasts performance-tuned suspension, customizable driving modes, and a sporty interior with premium materials. It also includes advanced tech like regenerative braking and a driver-focused infotainment system.

Is the Ford Focus RS Electric Car suitable for daily driving?

Absolutely! While it’s a high-performance vehicle, the Focus RS Electric Car offers a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and low running costs, making it practical for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.

How does the Ford Focus RS Electric Car compare to its gas-powered predecessor?

The electric version retains the aggressive styling and track-ready dynamics of the original Focus RS but replaces the combustion engine with a quieter, more efficient electric powertrain. It also eliminates emissions without sacrificing speed or fun.