"Awesome" and "reliability" should not go in the same sentence when talking about the Focus RS. It's probobly the biggest grenade of a performance car in a long time.
its a shame that Ford decides to kill off the Focus RS model in the US and Asia in favor of the SUVs. The market is to saturated with SUVs and Crossovers. Now the VW Golf GTi is a rare sight
They Didn't "kill" it. I was destined for 3 years of production only. Just like all previous version of the RS. It's meant to keep it limited and preserve the RS brand.
Glad you still have the RS Joe. As a fellow RS owner, its what brought me to your channel back when you had like 2k subscibers. Cheers for your continued success with the channel!
@@reggier2343 it kinde is up too personal preference. I dont think its that stiff in normal mode. But its not my daily driver its just my funtime car. Ive been in alot worst tbh but then its like my homebuilt track cars
Hi joe I bought a new 17 RS couple months back and I love it absolutely. I think it’s the best car in the road. I just feel like I own a spaceship 🚀 on streets🔥 big fan of Raiti’s rides show and am looking forward to meet you at the 50000 subscribers car meet on April 6th.
It’s great to see your very own car. These RS’s are beautiful, and if I had one, like you, I would keep it stock. I’d love to see more of the RS:) great content once again!
Thanks for saying that! You are so right about the Grabber Blue! Many people confuse it for that color but when you see it in the sun you really know the difference.
Awesome update! I got mine about a month after you. Mine is a 2016, still new, just no one bought it on the lot lol! Same here also on the gasket, got it changed and the dealership also changed out the PTC while it was in there, and this is also my daily driver. No engine issues at all, no oil leaks. Premium gas and full synthetic oil only. I do get the plastic squeaks also but its no biggie. Was actually a good winter drive also(Im in MI). I bought some Michelin Winter ICE X3's and this thing was a BEAST! Really worth the $ for those tires. I will be putting on the summer tires soon here and also! I also recommend getting the "Sonax Ceramic Coating". Lasts for 3 years and after each wash, looks like your car just got polished and waxed. HIGHLY recommend. Only mods I did was window tint/carbon fiber shift head from CJ Pony Parts/Borla ATAK exhaust. All in all, so happy I have this car and I still get people looking my way or stopping to ask me questions about the car. Sorry for the big txts but happy driving!
As a person who owns both 17 and 18, no regret at all... this car is insanely fun! The price for this kind of performance, I think is really a good deal
@@TimberWulfIsHereFirst of all, its not the same car, the 18 is limited edition, and comes with the front quaife LSD from the factory. Second of all, maybe is wasting money for you, but is not wasting money for me. Have you watched shemee's vids? He has 3 Focus RSs, is that wasting money? Maybe for you but is his money he can buy whatever he wants. Same as I do.
Love this channel and your taste in cars, I appreciate seeing the RS as well as the variety of vehicles you have to show. Anyone who hasn't subscribed yet, subscribe! It only gets better with all of the cool cars and knowledge.
The best way to wealth is to keep a car for 10 to 15 years. Even better buy used and keep the car for 10 to 15 years. I have a 2000 Avalon that I bought used in 2004. And I have a 2017 Mustang that I bought used. I hope that it will hold up for 10 to 15 years. I generally pay cash. Not having a car payment helps build wealth. If you can't pay cash then pay off your car in 3 years.
I bought a 2017 brand new in September. Got a 100k mile warranty so I'm playing with house money :) very happy with it so far. I actually traded my 2012 Golf R for it. Love both but definitely happy with the trade
Thank you for review on your RS, again. I miss that your so honest!!! To me the RS is a platform, build to your personality!!! The RS can be smooth riding or harsh.
🚙🚘🙏🏻Awesome car Joe!! You keep that thing in pristine condition!!! I would love to see more videos on the RS!! I hope ya have a great week Joe!! God bless ya my friend!!🚙🚘🙏🏻
You’re welcome Joe, I’m grateful to be a member of the fam!!! Have a great week my friend!! I cannot wait to see what cars this week!! God bless ya!! 🙏🏻🚙🚘
What a sweet ride and I feel you about keeping it clean. After not having a reliable car for over 3 months, I NEVER take my new car for granted. I was actually going to wash mine today but it is going to rain tomorrow. I love my car but I don't have time to waste. Keep up the great work. It was a mistake for Ford to discontinue this hot hatch especially after finally dialing it in to perfection after all these years. While Ford is bowing out Hyundai is throwing their hat in the ring with their Veloster N and I think they will sell like hot cakes. Again, thanks for sharing. Glad I subscribed.
Im also really in Love with my Mk3 Rs (with Shell Seats, Thanks Germany :D) One Tip for your Setup procedure. It is possible to activate a 5th Drive mode (Custom mode) where you can preset all Settings like AWD, Suspension etc. Just look up for it and patch it with Forscan (max. 5min) The electronic stability control is in Track mode only in "Sport" (it got 3 Settings: on/ Sport/ off). If it is in Sport Mode you can drift at some corners. The back get loose a few degrees if you are to fast for the corner and a few moments later it push you back, but you can't spin or sth. (i hope my english is whell enough to explain it) The start/stop problem is in every car. it is hard to deactivated. In Germany it is tax evasion cause you emission rise (if they find it)
Hey Joe.....the answer to your question is simple. It will always and emphatically be no. Still an awesome car. What a colour! Thanks for a great vid Joe.........let's see some more of your awesome pride and joy!!
Hated my 2016 RS. Nothing but issues once it hit three months. Ford tried to hose me but luckily, Attorney Generals Office in Fl. stepped up to the plate and had my back. Ford attempted to tell me the wrong steps in trying to get them to buy it back. Been two years ago and haven't looked back and will never buy a Ford again. Loved how it looked by mine was a lemon. Glad yours is running well.
I'm curious how you feel about other common complaints like how the seat is really high and angled upward for your legs, the stiff suspension making it a nightmare for passengers, etc. I'm actually debating between the Focus RS and Veloster N (and somewhat the STI). Obviously the Veloster is a totally different function but a used RS would be the same price. I like how the Veloster N has very ergonomic mode buttons on the wheel and N-Custom (it sounds like you can somewhat modify the RS) but the N is just a really great design for that. I also hear that the N has good launch control (as good as a FWD can be). Mostly i like to support brands who are actively producing products i like, because you vote with your money. The way i see it, Hyundai is putting out really fun, driver-centric cars, whereas Ford abandoned the United States car enthusiasts, and buying a used Ford doesn't help the cause of saving fun cars. But the RS is still on the table for me despite that. To put it into perspective, i've never heard one bad review of the Veloster N, but i've heard bad reviews of the RS. As if it becomes a chore to own that car.
RumikoOne The seats are definitely a major adjustment. I’m 170LBs & sat in a 2018 RS last year. The very first thing I said to the salesman was “Wow I can not move my legs & it’s difficult to reach the clutch”. It’s a race car setup, but I guess you can try to daily drive it. If you closely monitor the used ads though, you’ll notice that many of them have multiple owners in a 2yr span which tells me there’s definitely issues with daily driving it, ride quality etc. I’m waiting for a white one to pop up locally to me & I’ll go drive it & see if I can live with it as a daily.
The seats are high and very angled. If you do any kind of twisty road driving or track days you will appreciate the seats more. The suspension is on the stiffer side, but if you have been in a Subaru STI it is not much different. You are so right about the Veloster N, it is a great car. The only thing for me is that the seats are in the total opposite direction. They are not supportive at all and the bottom section is on the harder side. The ride is way more complient in the Veloster N and it is a hoot to drive but you can feel the less HP.
The one thing I would strongly suggest is find a Veloster N in your area and just sit in it for a solid couple minutes. Do the same in the Focus RS if you haven't done so yet. If there was something that I threw out the window from doing months of research on the Veloster N is every reviewer giving a lot of shit to the interior and the seats. I've sat in one for 5 min at an auto show, decided that I really didn't mind the interior at all and that the seats are pretty comfortable for daily use. Now, I have had my Veloster N for almost 2 months and I love driving it every single day. I used to daily drive an 03 Evo way back in the day when I was in my mid 20s and my back would hurt after long drives. At 30, I sat in my buddy's RS and I felt a strain on my back as soon as I sat down. Only sat in his car for 1-2 min but I could tell long drives would give me some back pains. The only way you'll find out for sure what car you'd like is to just sit in both and see what you like. Both cars are amazing to drive in their own way. People will still not like the 75HP loss from an RS but from tracking a 13 Civic Si with just 200HP, I can say power isn't everything on track. If I can drive that Civic Si (4 door version at that) and keep up with an 08 Audi RS4 at Black Hawk Farms Raceway, then the 275HP in this Veloster N (and a more capable chassis) is quite a bit of power. That is if you plan on getting on track.
I have 2017 RS as well with stock drive train. Only thing I changed was the stock suspension with KW coilover plug and play that works with the car's electronics. Makes the ride great but still excellent handling. I admit that if Subaru ever brings back STI hatchback would be tempted to go back to Subaru. All in all great owner experience with the car with only oil changes. My car was not involved in the head gasket recall thankfully. Thanks for all your great reviews Joe!!👍
I have 27’000 miles on mine and I love it. I’m what you would call thicc, so those Recaro seats do hug the hell out of me...but they do break in a bit. Have no problems with mine as well
@@randomperson7135 actually I got it on 7/11 of 18 sounded like a winner to me I drive it sparingly it just makes it that much more fun when I do but I think I'm taking it to Vegas this week so that's about a little over a hundred miles each way will you please wake up maybe I'll consider getting an oil change my bring it back they really are a blast to drive I live out on Oatman highway on Route 66 and the eight miles to Oatman is windy curvy 2nd gear fun
@@randomperson7135 it's it's white and I had the blue RS on the front painted white and the RS on the wing painted black and I got it on 7/11 of 18 with 100 miles on it and they are already a done the head gasket it is a little scary to worry about but I guess it's less than a thousand bucks to do the job so hopefully I won't have to pay any and as far as mods go I don't think so don't need 2
The RS is a lovely car. I have a Fiesta ST Stage 1. It's a 3 door and flies. I would love a RS but I couldn't justify the added costs I would incur. Enjoy your motor 👍
I do exactly the same start up process every time 😄 glad you’re still in love with yours. I hit 24k in my 2017 so far; zero issues. Knock on wood, many more years of trouble-free driving to come.
Good to see you still enjoying the rs. I still want a nitous blue one pretty bad. Maybe one day when i wouldnt have to daily drive it. The ST does a great job handling the daily duties and the fun factor goes up with every mod added.
Dang. You've done a great job in keeping the typical dirty areas really clean. Those calipers and wheels... What do you use to keep the FL bugs from sticking to the front and windshield? And have you considered listing out the products you use to keep up the RS using amazon affiliate links for an additional revenue stream? All the youtubers seem to be doing it and RS is a great example of the end-results.
I skipped this for a 2019 kia stinger. I really wanted an RS (had an ST), but just couldn't get one. Now they are out of production until 2020. With all the issues though, im kinda glad I didn't get one.
I got the 2018 RS limited edition with better suspension new and have now 37k miles 5 years late, I still absolutely love it. It’s been 100% reliable thus far. Also, the value is pretty much around what it was new, maybe even a little more. Only complaint is the turning radius
Im in the process of obtaining an 2018 with 14,000 miles on it. I'm excited for the test drive but worried about the awkward seating position I keep reading about.
@@FreshlyBaked13 I find the seats great. My only critique is that they’re a little high, particularly the passenger seat, which I’m almost never in. Otherwise, the driver side lowers via electric controls and otherwise, I find the seat definitely comfortable, and well bolstered for spirited driving 😎. I think some who are overweight don’t like the seat as much, kind of for obvious reasons when you look at the bolsters
@@malcolmh5736 Thats a relief to hear. How is the car holding up for you otherwise? Any regrets? I have a hard time shelling out 40+ for a ford focus but I've been down the sti and Golf R road and want something with more power and feel. I'm currently in a brz ts which is abysmally slow but a pleasure to drive handling wise. I was also considering a lightly used 6 speed 2020 bmw m240I for about the same price as this RS. But living in New England I do miss awd and the looks of the m240I are meh to me.
@@FreshlyBaked13 My 18 has been completely reliable, is still as solid as ever, drives like new! I also live in New England and it’s my daily. I swap out rims/tires (winter performance tires) every season and it does fine in winter. I put PPF on the bumper, hood, front fenders, side mirrors, and lower skirts and did Ceramic Pro ceramic coating on the rest and it always looks waxed (when it’s clean heh). If you do that, make sure to add to your insurance, it’s cheap but covers the re-do if any damage. A guy backed into my front end and the PPF re-do is covered. BMW, eh.. it’ll cost you more over time for maintenance, higher chance for waiting for parts, which are also more costly. Also, look at how surprisingly the RS has held value, which is against what all the haters predicted. I test drove a Golf R the same day I test drove my RS and the RS won! The RS put a smile on my face and the Golf didn’t. I still absolutely love it. I keep it stock and won’t put mods on it. It sounds great. Only issue I had was a very small oil leak which was fully fixed under warranty.
This is one of my dream car. I'd deck it out/wrap it in a gray(matte) and keep the black rims and put some blue tape that's not ruining on it. That's how deck it out. But I'm sad they are discountinueing this cause it's really awesome. Your car is really dope, I wish I had it.
I got my focus rs pre owned at 16000km and have put 100,000km in almost 2 years, it’s quite reliable except for the gas for me in the city which is the worst
I work at a scrap metal yard, and Ive lost count on the number of fresh looking 2008-2012 focuses ive crushed due to the transmission repair costing a fortune to replace ...this is an RS, and has a few years left on it, due to its fancy nameplate.
My brother has exact same car with same colour. He loves it and also uses it as his daily driver. The rubber and plastic fading is common with these and mustangs. Coating fixes that issues. Auto start stop is dumb and He Hates it. It’s only in European made fords (Focus RS is made in Germany or at least ones we get in Australia). Great Video Subscribed and liked!
I’m debating between a 2017 focus rs or a 2019 wrx. I heard mechanically, the rs has many problems. But the power you get seems amazing which it is but I don’t want to deal with problems for my first car.
I had a 17 FoRS, a 16 veloster (shit-toaster) and a MK8 GTI. Get the WRX. Third party support is second to none and loads more reliable. The others have problems with staying put together *stock* 🤬
Love the RS Joe! I have a 2019 STi Limited I bought brand new and I’ve really been considering getting an RS also. Such a good looking hot hatch! I’d love to get a white RS to match my CWP STi, but I love the blue on the RS!!
I’ve got exactly the same car just done 10k... not had one problem with it. It’s absolutely perfect. I might get a new exhaust and maybe Mountune 375 bhp. But seriously I love it
I have a 13' st and I still love it. It's my dad car with power. No complaints aside from evap purge valve and the wiring harness had to be fixed at fords expense. Only thing I've had a problem that I had to pay for was an exhaust that leaked but then again I live in Ohio, lots of snow and salt and short drives where I didnt have time to burn out the moisture. Other than that after 5 years I love this thing. I also love the new exhaust.
Nitours Blue = Grabber Blue, love it!. thanks for this one, love the RS and specially in this color. I'm like you like to wash and take care of my care, it's like meditation and relaxation time away from everything else. I'll suggest prep the black trim areas, do some solution finish and put some coating like Gtechniq, Gyeon, etc..it will look at its best and last more. Great stuff Joe!
BSRSoldier 60,000 miles of highway driving cannot determine the reliability of a car. This from someone who lives in NYC. Almost any car can do a few hundred thousand miles of highway driving, especially if it’s done in a short period of time.
Hey Raiti, it's good to see you taking care of your beautiful RS! As you might recall, I told you about the StingerGT I purchased late last year. I'd like to say I've been taking care of it and washing it the way you do yours (as I always took care of my cars when I lived in Dallas), but unfortunately I moved to NYC for work and have not had a chance to really do anything for the Stinger. Poor car is beat up now and the paint looks like I took the bristle brush to it. NYC doesn't make it easy to take care of your car! :(
Had my ‘17 rs bought back by Ford. Dealership miss timed my engine with the recall and blew my engine. I miss it but moved into a low mileage 06 S4 Avant manual.
@@RaitisRides Just based on snow driving, track feels like Subarus 50:50, drift feels little more than STI-s fully open, sport is somewhere in the middle. Usually driving in sport in the city, with traction off, if slippy, otherwise on. On highway normal with try tarmac and track if snowing or slippery.
Your car looks great like it came off the showroom floor. I do agree with you on the inside door handles. I wish ford would’ve done something about those things cause I have a 16 st and my door handles are chrome and have a ton of scratch marks on them so I think I’ll end up wrapping them here soon. How’s your shift know looking as far as wear and tear? Mine is seeing a lot discoloration and wear marks. Keep up the great work and content.
@@RaitisRides Unfortunately I haven't since there were not many in my area when shopping around. They all seem to be show room floor material for 2018-2019 models and only a handful of MK7's used. The power would have been nice but I'm finding the GTI nimble and handles well for daily driving.
I love that your car is stock. No need to compromise your awesome car's reliability.
I really appreciate you taking the time to say that Paul!
"Awesome" and "reliability" should not go in the same sentence when talking about the Focus RS. It's probobly the biggest grenade of a performance car in a long time.
Reliability hehe
@@Defy_Convention Yeah, because you're so cool being stranded without a car, looking for bus tokens. Stupid comment.
@@paulosicne5803 r/woooosh
its a shame that Ford decides to kill off the Focus RS model in the US and Asia in favor of the SUVs. The market is to saturated with SUVs and Crossovers. Now the VW Golf GTi is a rare sight
I have my 2018 gti SE since January 15 2018. Seen a few in the New York area, of course nothing compared to SUV's.
Don't remind me! lol
Congrats on your FE!
They Didn't "kill" it. I was destined for 3 years of production only. Just like all previous version of the RS. It's meant to keep it limited and preserve the RS brand.
Aww there not making anymore rs models after this year??
Glad you still have the RS Joe. As a fellow RS owner, its what brought me to your channel back when you had like 2k subscibers. Cheers for your continued success with the channel!
Thank you so much for taking the time to say that! I hope your RS is doing well!
Feel you bro. See RS. Own RS. Watch video. Im a simple man aswell
So I’m looking at the RS. How stiff is the suspension in its softest setting compared to another sports car.
@@reggier2343 it kinde is up too personal preference. I dont think its that stiff in normal mode. But its not my daily driver its just my funtime car. Ive been in alot worst tbh but then its like my homebuilt track cars
This video makes me think about trading my Volvo S40 T5 in for the RS and especially in that beautiful blue
Ford finally built a beautiful modern looking car and discontinues it *sigh...
Thank dealermarkups
I tried to forward on Chris’s as daily commuter cars and again these were really great cars never left me stuck anywhere
Thanks for sharing that!
Hi joe I bought a new 17 RS couple months back and I love it absolutely. I think it’s the best car in the road. I just feel like I own a spaceship 🚀 on streets🔥 big fan of Raiti’s rides show and am looking forward to meet you at the 50000 subscribers car meet on April 6th.
That is so really awesome! Congrats on your RS! I am looking forward to meeting you as well!
This is my dream car ! Ive been working none stop to get one and this pumps me up even more! I appreciate the update Raiti!
That's a really nice hot hatch Ford Focus RS you got there Joe. Nice presentation as well. Keep em' comin', thanks.
I really appreciate you saying that Paul! Thanks for being so awesome!
It’s great to see your very own car. These RS’s are beautiful, and if I had one, like you, I would keep it stock. I’d love to see more of the RS:) great content once again!
Thanks Omar for taking the time to say that! I will get more footage together!
That color is absolutely beautiful and especially with the black wheels. What a perfect car to put that color on. It reminds me of grabber blue.
Thanks for saying that! You are so right about the Grabber Blue! Many people confuse it for that color but when you see it in the sun you really know the difference.
Awesome update! I got mine about a month after you. Mine is a 2016, still new, just no one bought it on the lot lol! Same here also on the gasket, got it changed and the dealership also changed out the PTC while it was in there, and this is also my daily driver. No engine issues at all, no oil leaks. Premium gas and full synthetic oil only. I do get the plastic squeaks also but its no biggie. Was actually a good winter drive also(Im in MI). I bought some Michelin Winter ICE X3's and this thing was a BEAST! Really worth the $ for those tires. I will be putting on the summer tires soon here and also! I also recommend getting the "Sonax Ceramic Coating". Lasts for 3 years and after each wash, looks like your car just got polished and waxed. HIGHLY recommend. Only mods I did was window tint/carbon fiber shift head from CJ Pony Parts/Borla ATAK exhaust. All in all, so happy I have this car and I still get people looking my way or stopping to ask me questions about the car. Sorry for the big txts but happy driving!
Congrats on your RS purchase! You did it right and I am sure she will bring you plenty of smiles per miles!
Got myself a 17 RS a few months ago, best thing I've ever bought
update on how its doing? any mods?
@@cformyohoe running a treat. Got a scorpion cat back exhaust fitted a few months ago which remote valve
I regret not owning an RS, but hey got the other brother ST and no regrets whatsoever! Great Vlog.
Can totally relate with u on pampering your car as a form of meditation. What an awesome car as stock!
Thanks Peter! Great minds think a like!
As a person who owns both 17 and 18, no regret at all... this car is insanely fun! The price for this kind of performance, I think is really a good deal
I could not agree more!
Why both?
JustJake why not？
@@luckyrYtArd same car? Double the waste of money?
@@TimberWulfIsHereFirst of all, its not the same car, the 18 is limited edition, and comes with the front quaife LSD from the factory. Second of all, maybe is wasting money for you, but is not wasting money for me. Have you watched shemee's vids? He has 3 Focus RSs, is that wasting money? Maybe for you but is his money he can buy whatever he wants. Same as I do.
Ooo My love for Ford Focus RS, especially those gloss black rims and painted brembo callipers. 😍😍 Good job bro.
Thanks that really means a lot!
@@RaitisRides your most welcome buddy keep the good work.
Love this channel and your taste in cars, I appreciate seeing the RS as well as the variety of vehicles you have to show. Anyone who hasn't subscribed yet, subscribe! It only gets better with all of the cool cars and knowledge.
That is so very awesome of you to say! Thank you so much for saying that!
The best way to wealth is to keep a car for 10 to 15 years. Even better buy used and keep the car for 10 to 15 years. I have a 2000 Avalon that I bought used in 2004. And I have a 2017 Mustang that I bought used. I hope that it will hold up for 10 to 15 years. I generally pay cash. Not having a car payment helps build wealth. If you can't pay cash then pay off your car in 3 years.
Thank you for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Getting my 17 RS today in a few hours!!! I'm so hype been watching all your vids about the RS!
Well after 1 year, how has it been?
Might get one myself so I’m curious as to how it’s doing
You're good at reviews. Captivating to listen to and watch. You're comfortable in front of the camera. 👍
That really means a lot Edward! I really appreciate you saying that!
It's a future classic! Hit that rubber with 303 Aerospace Protectant, Joe! (it's unreal how good this stuff is compared to everything else IMHO)
Thanks for that great suggestion Zac.
Love the the RS. Don’t get a rid of it Joe.
O really appreciate you saying that!
I bought a 2017 brand new in September. Got a 100k mile warranty so I'm playing with house money :) very happy with it so far. I actually traded my 2012 Golf R for it. Love both but definitely happy with the trade
So glad to hear Dom! Keep me in the loop!
Love my 2018 race red. Bought it brand new and decided to keep it for the long haul. Thanks for sharing a video on your nitrous blue 👊🏻
Thanks for saying that! Well done on your Race Red RS!
your Ford Focus RS is gorgeous! Congratulations on having the good sense to buy it!
That really means a lot thank you!
Thank you for review on your RS, again. I miss that your so honest!!! To me the RS is a platform, build to your personality!!! The RS can be smooth riding or harsh.
Thanks Michael for saying that! I really appreciate you letting me share it with you!
Alright, I've been watching for a while now.... it's good stuff. Subscribed
Thanks Adam for joining the Raiti's Rides family!
🚙🚘🙏🏻Awesome car Joe!! You keep that thing in pristine condition!!! I would love to see more videos on the RS!! I hope ya have a great week Joe!! God bless ya my friend!!🚙🚘🙏🏻
Thank you Shaun for taking the time to say that! I really appreciate you being part of the Raiti's Rides family!
You’re welcome Joe, I’m grateful to be a member of the fam!!! Have a great week my friend!! I cannot wait to see what cars this week!! God bless ya!! 🙏🏻🚙🚘
Absolutely Beautiful looking car and perfect in this colour , Thank you for the updates and ownership tips and tricks.
I really appreciate that Steve!
I own a Ford Focus RS I highly recommend it 👌🏾❤️❤️
That's pretty awesome, Zakyal!
Are these thinhs quick?
Honestly would love to be able to afford this car looks and sounds amazing
Keep working hard and you will.
Absolutely beautiful Joe. Love the colour!
That is really awesome of you to say! Thanks for doing that!
The Focus RS is truly a Beautiful hatch. Love this car, didn't even know you had one though!
Thanks! I actually just god rid of it! :-0
Your Focus RS is a fantastic car and I'd like to see more videos of it!
Thanks Mark! I will put more together!
I was with you back when you had 2k subs keep it up joe!
I appreciate you having my back and being there since pretty much the beginning!
What a sweet ride and I feel you about keeping it clean. After not having a reliable car for over 3 months, I NEVER take my new car for granted. I was actually going to wash mine today but it is going to rain tomorrow. I love my car but I don't have time to waste. Keep up the great work. It was a mistake for Ford to discontinue this hot hatch especially after finally dialing it in to perfection after all these years. While Ford is bowing out Hyundai is throwing their hat in the ring with their Veloster N and I think they will sell like hot cakes. Again, thanks for sharing. Glad I subscribed.
Thank yo so much for joining the Raiti's Rides Family! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and input!
Need more of your RS videos. I just baught one of the last 2018 Nitrous Blue RS in Canada and can't get enough! Keep the great videos coming!
I will get more together Brad!
Im also really in Love with my Mk3 Rs (with Shell Seats, Thanks Germany :D)
One Tip for your Setup procedure. It is possible to activate a 5th Drive mode (Custom mode) where you can preset all Settings like AWD, Suspension etc. Just look up for it and patch it with Forscan (max. 5min)
The electronic stability control is in Track mode only in "Sport" (it got 3 Settings: on/ Sport/ off). If it is in Sport Mode you can drift at some corners. The back get loose a few degrees if you are to fast for the corner and a few moments later it push you back, but you can't spin or sth. (i hope my english is whell enough to explain it)
The start/stop problem is in every car. it is hard to deactivated. In Germany it is tax evasion cause you emission rise (if they find it)
Thanks for taking the time to share your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Hey Joe.....the answer to your question is simple. It will always and emphatically be no. Still an awesome car. What a colour!
Thanks for a great vid Joe.........let's see some more of your awesome pride and joy!!
Thanks Gary for saying that! i will get more of that together.
Can't wait to drive mine again next week, been 5 months 😒. Yours looks just like mine.
Oh wow! That is a while! What was the issue?
@@RaitisRides I keep it stored in the winter because of the snow
@@arcadejackpotpro you live in canada or northern us?
@@arcadejackpotpro bro its awd
@@thiefmann9684 You Still Need Higher Ground Clearance If There’s A Lot of snow ❄️.
Joe, Gorgeous car, Nice Color, We have a 2017 Focus RS, Oxford White, We Love our Little Power House
That is so very cool!
Hated my 2016 RS. Nothing but issues once it hit three months. Ford tried to hose me but luckily, Attorney Generals Office in Fl. stepped up to the plate and had my back. Ford attempted to tell me the wrong steps in trying to get them to buy it back. Been two years ago and haven't looked back and will never buy a Ford again. Loved how it looked by mine was a lemon. Glad yours is running well.
I am so sorry that you had issues with yours. What did you get after the fact.
@@RaitisRides ended up with a 2018 GTI and LOVE IT. Tune, exhaust, DP, FMIC, South Bend clutch .. still get 32+mph but fast when I want it.
I have 2016 RS...no issues, an absolute sports car, the ultimate dig monster!
Thanks for sharing that!
Your car looks great especially with the windows done and the wheels
Thanks I really appreciate you saying that!
Have a 2015 ST.... 2 months in, and love it !!!
Congrats!
I'm curious how you feel about other common complaints like how the seat is really high and angled upward for your legs, the stiff suspension making it a nightmare for passengers, etc.
I'm actually debating between the Focus RS and Veloster N (and somewhat the STI). Obviously the Veloster is a totally different function but a used RS would be the same price. I like how the Veloster N has very ergonomic mode buttons on the wheel and N-Custom (it sounds like you can somewhat modify the RS) but the N is just a really great design for that. I also hear that the N has good launch control (as good as a FWD can be). Mostly i like to support brands who are actively producing products i like, because you vote with your money. The way i see it, Hyundai is putting out really fun, driver-centric cars, whereas Ford abandoned the United States car enthusiasts, and buying a used Ford doesn't help the cause of saving fun cars. But the RS is still on the table for me despite that.
To put it into perspective, i've never heard one bad review of the Veloster N, but i've heard bad reviews of the RS. As if it becomes a chore to own that car.
RumikoOne The seats are definitely a major adjustment. I’m 170LBs & sat in a 2018 RS last year. The very first thing I said to the salesman was “Wow I can not move my legs & it’s difficult to reach the clutch”. It’s a race car setup, but I guess you can try to daily drive it. If you closely monitor the used ads though, you’ll notice that many of them have multiple owners in a 2yr span which tells me there’s definitely issues with daily driving it, ride quality etc. I’m waiting for a white one to pop up locally to me & I’ll go drive it & see if I can live with it as a daily.
The seats are high and very angled. If you do any kind of twisty road driving or track days you will appreciate the seats more. The suspension is on the stiffer side, but if you have been in a Subaru STI it is not much different.
You are so right about the Veloster N, it is a great car. The only thing for me is that the seats are in the total opposite direction. They are not supportive at all and the bottom section is on the harder side. The ride is way more complient in the Veloster N and it is a hoot to drive but you can feel the less HP.
The one thing I would strongly suggest is find a Veloster N in your area and just sit in it for a solid couple minutes. Do the same in the Focus RS if you haven't done so yet. If there was something that I threw out the window from doing months of research on the Veloster N is every reviewer giving a lot of shit to the interior and the seats. I've sat in one for 5 min at an auto show, decided that I really didn't mind the interior at all and that the seats are pretty comfortable for daily use. Now, I have had my Veloster N for almost 2 months and I love driving it every single day. I used to daily drive an 03 Evo way back in the day when I was in my mid 20s and my back would hurt after long drives. At 30, I sat in my buddy's RS and I felt a strain on my back as soon as I sat down. Only sat in his car for 1-2 min but I could tell long drives would give me some back pains.
The only way you'll find out for sure what car you'd like is to just sit in both and see what you like. Both cars are amazing to drive in their own way. People will still not like the 75HP loss from an RS but from tracking a 13 Civic Si with just 200HP, I can say power isn't everything on track. If I can drive that Civic Si (4 door version at that) and keep up with an 08 Audi RS4 at Black Hawk Farms Raceway, then the 275HP in this Veloster N (and a more capable chassis) is quite a bit of power. That is if you plan on getting on track.
I have 2017 RS as well with stock drive train. Only thing I changed was the stock suspension with KW coilover plug and play that works with the car's electronics. Makes the ride great but still excellent handling. I admit that if Subaru ever brings back STI hatchback would be tempted to go back to Subaru. All in all great owner experience with the car with only oil changes. My car was not involved in the head gasket recall thankfully. Thanks for all your great reviews Joe!!👍
Thanks for Robert for sharing that great information! I appreciate your support!
I have 27’000 miles on mine and I love it. I’m what you would call thicc, so those Recaro seats do hug the hell out of me...but they do break in a bit. Have no problems with mine as well
I am so happy to hear that you are not having any problems.
Great update video! Let’s see some of those drift mode videos Joe!
Thanks you brother! I will be getting some of the together! Stay tuned!
Low cal no fat donuts. Lol. Very nice. I'm definitely for setting more videos of your RS!!
You got it Josh! I will get those together!
Love it glad to hear
Only 2500 miles on mine
With no issues
Did u berly get it?cause thats pretty low miles
@@randomperson7135 actually I got it on 7/11 of 18 sounded like a winner to me I drive it sparingly it just makes it that much more fun when I do but I think I'm taking it to Vegas this week so that's about a little over a hundred miles each way will you please wake up maybe I'll consider getting an oil change my bring it back they really are a blast to drive I live out on Oatman highway on Route 66 and the eight miles to Oatman is windy curvy 2nd gear fun
@@randomperson7135 it's it's white and I had the blue RS on the front painted white and the RS on the wing painted black and I got it on 7/11 of 18 with 100 miles on it and they are already a done the head gasket it is a little scary to worry about but I guess it's less than a thousand bucks to do the job so hopefully I won't have to pay any and as far as mods go I don't think so don't need 2
Sounds great Ken!
That is a great question!
The RS is a lovely car. I have a Fiesta ST Stage 1. It's a 3 door and flies. I would love a RS but I couldn't justify the added costs I would incur. Enjoy your motor 👍
I do exactly the same start up process every time 😄 glad you’re still in love with yours. I hit 24k in my 2017 so far; zero issues. Knock on wood, many more years of trouble-free driving to come.
Thanks for sharing that with me! Good to hear that you are have good reliability!
Good to see you still enjoying the rs. I still want a nitous blue one pretty bad. Maybe one day when i wouldnt have to daily drive it. The ST does a great job handling the daily duties and the fun factor goes up with every mod added.
Thanks Bobby! It's good to have a little dream for the future!
Dang. You've done a great job in keeping the typical dirty areas really clean. Those calipers and wheels... What do you use to keep the FL bugs from sticking to the front and windshield? And have you considered listing out the products you use to keep up the RS using amazon affiliate links for an additional revenue stream? All the youtubers seem to be doing it and RS is a great example of the end-results.
I need to put a video together about this! That is some great info for me!
I skipped this for a 2019 kia stinger. I really wanted an RS (had an ST), but just couldn't get one. Now they are out of production until 2020. With all the issues though, im kinda glad I didn't get one.
Thanks for sharing your input on this one!
I got the 2018 RS limited edition with better suspension new and have now 37k miles 5 years late, I still absolutely love it. It’s been 100% reliable thus far. Also, the value is pretty much around what it was new, maybe even a little more. Only complaint is the turning radius
Im in the process of obtaining an 2018 with 14,000 miles on it. I'm excited for the test drive but worried about the awkward seating position I keep reading about.
@@FreshlyBaked13 I find the seats great. My only critique is that they’re a little high, particularly the passenger seat, which I’m almost never in. Otherwise, the driver side lowers via electric controls and otherwise, I find the seat definitely comfortable, and well bolstered for spirited driving 😎. I think some who are overweight don’t like the seat as much, kind of for obvious reasons when you look at the bolsters
@@malcolmh5736 Thats a relief to hear. How is the car holding up for you otherwise? Any regrets? I have a hard time shelling out 40+ for a ford focus but I've been down the sti and Golf R road and want something with more power and feel. I'm currently in a brz ts which is abysmally slow but a pleasure to drive handling wise. I was also considering a lightly used 6 speed 2020 bmw m240I for about the same price as this RS. But living in New England I do miss awd and the looks of the m240I are meh to me.
@@FreshlyBaked13 My 18 has been completely reliable, is still as solid as ever, drives like new! I also live in New England and it’s my daily. I swap out rims/tires (winter performance tires) every season and it does fine in winter. I put PPF on the bumper, hood, front fenders, side mirrors, and lower skirts and did Ceramic Pro ceramic coating on the rest and it always looks waxed (when it’s clean heh). If you do that, make sure to add to your insurance, it’s cheap but covers the re-do if any damage. A guy backed into my front end and the PPF re-do is covered. BMW, eh.. it’ll cost you more over time for maintenance, higher chance for waiting for parts, which are also more costly. Also, look at how surprisingly the RS has held value, which is against what all the haters predicted. I test drove a Golf R the same day I test drove my RS and the RS won! The RS put a smile on my face and the Golf didn’t. I still absolutely love it. I keep it stock and won’t put mods on it. It sounds great. Only issue I had was a very small oil leak which was fully fixed under warranty.
This is one of my dream car. I'd deck it out/wrap it in a gray(matte) and keep the black rims and put some blue tape that's not ruining on it. That's how deck it out. But I'm sad they are discountinueing this cause it's really awesome. Your car is really dope, I wish I had it.
Nice, u know exactly what to do , I haven't got a chance to comment before but I love your channel's content. 👍👍👍
That is really awesome of you to say!
I got my focus rs pre owned at 16000km and have put 100,000km in almost 2 years, it’s quite reliable except for the gas for me in the city which is the worst
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective from your own ownership.
whats a km?
señor pepper km means kilometre, because I am from Canada
Still my favorite color for the RS...keep up great work buddy!
Thanks Brian for the motivating words! I really appreciate your awesome support!
I work at a scrap metal yard, and Ive lost count on the number of fresh looking 2008-2012 focuses ive crushed due to the transmission repair costing a fortune to replace ...this is an RS, and has a few years left on it, due to its fancy nameplate.
My brother has exact same car with same colour. He loves it and also uses it as his daily driver. The rubber and plastic fading is common with these and mustangs. Coating fixes that issues. Auto start stop is dumb and He Hates it. It’s only in European made fords (Focus RS is made in Germany or at least ones we get in Australia). Great Video Subscribed and liked!
Thanks for taking the time to share those thoughts. I appreciate the tip about the fading parts!
Had a friend back in 1980 total his car doing donuts in the snow on a light post 😂😂😂😂
OUCH! Trust me I was in the clear of anything.
Yeah thats what old volvos are for
I’m debating between a 2017 focus rs or a 2019 wrx. I heard mechanically, the rs has many problems. But the power you get seems amazing which it is but I don’t want to deal with problems for my first car.
Brendan Fogel other than the head gasket what issues have you heard about?
I've had both. RS is definitely more unreliable, but more fun
I had a 17 FoRS, a 16 veloster (shit-toaster) and a MK8 GTI. Get the WRX. Third party support is second to none and loads more reliable. The others have problems with staying put together *stock* 🤬
Raiti yes sir we want to see the focus ha. Sneak it in more but not all the time. Dont change to much just carbon fiber lip maybe
Thanks Kory for the great suggestions!
Love the RS Joe! I have a 2019 STi Limited I bought brand new and I’ve really been considering getting an RS also. Such a good looking hot hatch! I’d love to get a white RS to match my CWP STi, but I love the blue on the RS!!
Now that would be a dream garage!
Awesome car Joe, this was a really cool video Joe and Tom!!
Thanks Dylan for letting us share it with you!
I’ve got exactly the same car just done 10k... not had one problem with it. It’s absolutely perfect. I might get a new exhaust and maybe Mountune 375 bhp. But seriously I love it
Thanks for sharing that Michael!
I have a 13' st and I still love it. It's my dad car with power. No complaints aside from evap purge valve and the wiring harness had to be fixed at fords expense. Only thing I've had a problem that I had to pay for was an exhaust that leaked but then again I live in Ohio, lots of snow and salt and short drives where I didnt have time to burn out the moisture. Other than that after 5 years I love this thing. I also love the new exhaust.
Launch colour gets a thumbs up!! Still my favorite car over STI or Type R. Wait.. Mrs. Raiti drives a stick?!!! 👍🏻
Yes she does!
That RS is in good hands.No reason to have trouble.
Thanks Bruce for saying that!
Nitours Blue = Grabber Blue, love it!. thanks for this one, love the RS and specially in this color. I'm like you like to wash and take care of my care, it's like meditation and relaxation time away from everything else. I'll suggest prep the black trim areas, do some solution finish and put some coating like Gtechniq, Gyeon, etc..it will look at its best and last more. Great stuff Joe!
Thanks for the great info!
Nitrous blue is not grabber blue. Nitrous blue is a 4 stage paint with flake in it. Grabber blue is just blue b
I love the car. Only thing that I believe is that, the car won’t last a long time.
I guess we will find out.
I have nearly 60k on my 2016.... no issues other than the Ford recall to replace the head gasket. Been running like a champ since.
BSRSoldier 60,000 miles of highway driving cannot determine the reliability of a car. This from someone who lives in NYC. Almost any car can do a few hundred thousand miles of highway driving, especially if it’s done in a short period of time.
@@davidrobinson3148 highway, city, few times down the track, tuned. I'd say so far it's a pretty solid engine/ platform
Hit 'like' button after saw your car's interior.. Nice and clean bro 🤘
That really means a lot!
Hey Raiti, it's good to see you taking care of your beautiful RS! As you might recall, I told you about the StingerGT I purchased late last year. I'd like to say I've been taking care of it and washing it the way you do yours (as I always took care of my cars when I lived in Dallas), but unfortunately I moved to NYC for work and have not had a chance to really do anything for the Stinger. Poor car is beat up now and the paint looks like I took the bristle brush to it. NYC doesn't make it easy to take care of your car! :(
What an awesome car!
Ya gotta love a street legal factory rally car
It is a to of fun!
Love your RS. Need to add some basic mods. Cobb tune and intake etc....
Thanks Colin for taking the time to say that! You are so very right! Stay tuned! ;-)
i love mine as well! i own the same exact car, spec and all! glad you are liking it
Thanks for letting me share it with you!
Shame you guys didn’t get the RS MK2 in the states. Good video dude! Hello from the UK.
I wish we would of! I wanted one very badly! You guys over in the UK are lucky!
Raiti's Rides its an awesome car, I absolutely love mine 👍🏻
Raiti's Rides I’ve just uploaded a video of my MK2 if you want to check it out 👍🏻
Had my ‘17 rs bought back by Ford. Dealership miss timed my engine with the recall and blew my engine. I miss it but moved into a low mileage 06 S4 Avant manual.
I am so sorry to hear about that Keith!
Track mode DOES NOT shut off stability control! You need to hold that button down for 5s to shut it off.
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
@@RaitisRides Just based on snow driving, track feels like Subarus 50:50, drift feels little more than STI-s fully open, sport is somewhere in the middle. Usually driving in sport in the city, with traction off, if slippy, otherwise on. On highway normal with try tarmac and track if snowing or slippery.
Your car looks great like it came off the showroom floor. I do agree with you on the inside door handles. I wish ford would’ve done something about those things cause I have a 16 st and my door handles are chrome and have a ton of scratch marks on them so I think I’ll end up wrapping them here soon. How’s your shift know looking as far as wear and tear? Mine is seeing a lot discoloration and wear marks. Keep up the great work and content.
Thanks Paul for letting me share her with you and thank you for your input on your ST.
Nice ride Joe you take excellent care of it
Thanks Mel! That is very nice of you to say!
For my daily, I enjoy my GTI. But looking at your Focus RS, I wouldn't mind driving it someday.
The GTI is a great car! Have you driven a Golf R?
@@RaitisRides
Unfortunately I haven't since there were not many in my area when shopping around. They all seem to be show room floor material for 2018-2019 models and only a handful of MK7's used. The power would have been nice but I'm finding the GTI nimble and handles well for daily driving.
Absolutely the best colour but then I would say that owning one😃 kept mine stock too. Great vid by the way
The RS is a great car. The price of them is going up.
It will be interesting to see what happens.
@@RaitisRides The first focus RS of this type just sold at BJA for 550,000! Could you imagine 50-60 turned into 550,000!?
Awesome car. They should have never discontinued
AGREED!
Love those RS . That’s a sharp good looking car
thats a real nice car Raiti especially the color ..thumbs up bro.
I want a Ford Focus rs! Idk why. Looks so good and sounds amazing!
You will love it!
@@RaitisRides I'm trying to save for one as my first car but I'm worried about. Is it easy to drive but fun in the corners?
I miss mine. Only car I felt no need to mod. Mine was rear-ended and totaled last year. I will have another.
I am so sorry to hear that your RS was totaled! I hope that you are okay! You will get another!
Nice review, I'm looking at a used one the same color. 24k on the clock with the recall done.
They are out there just do some investigating!
It's more then just the recall tho isnt it?
One of the best car.
Thanks for saying that!
You should zonk ford for stopping the production of that beautiful and fast hatchpack
AGREED!
@@RaitisRides its back in 2020 with a hybrid model.
I love hot hatches but a 2011-2014 ISF is still the car for me. sweet ride man
I can totally understand that!
Amazing car, and love the blue with the tints windows and black wheels :)
I'm sure the only regret you have is that it's not a Shelby, but this car is really awesome! Best hot hatch and best snap crackle and pops
There is the price gap difference. For now the RS is giving me exactly what I need! I love rice crispies!
@@RaitisRides That's true plus you can haul the family and groceries around.
Hey Joe, hopefully you see this…. You still have your Focus RS? If so, you still love it? Maintenance?
I'm wanting one of these so bad!!! 😍
There are some good ones out there.