Focus RS48/70
The Deal
6
Pricier than a GTI at around $28k, but only ~5,000 came to the US, so clean cars hold value and climb.
The Drive
9
Genuinely thrilling. AWD grip, a torque-rich twin-scroll turbo, and Drift Mode. A 9, level with the Supra.
The Upkeep
4
Thirsty AWD at 22 mpg, and insurance is the surprise: the RS trim insures well above a base Focus.
The Risk
5
A real, catastrophic, well-documented head-gasket failure whose free fix has expired. The buy-check is everything.
The Daily
8
Four doors, 23.3 cu ft, and all-weather AWD. Only the firm ride and road noise keep it below the GTI.
The Limit
8
A serious weapon: AWD launches and 0.98 g of grip. Weight and brake heat are what cap it.
The Mods
7
An $800 tune makes 400 whp, but the open-deck block and gasket history make chasing power genuinely risky.