Should I buy a 2018 Focus RS in 2023?

Hey everyone, I’ve always been a huge fan of the Focus RS. If Ford released a 2023 version, I’d grab it without thinking twice. Right now, I’m looking at a 2018 model.

For comparison, I’ve also been checking out the 2023 Type R, 2023 WRX, and 2021 STI. I’m not big on FWD, and I like the practicality of a hatchback. The RS seems to outperform all of them in terms of speed.

That said, is it worth going for a car that’s six years old? Are there any major issues I should be aware of? And do you have any advice for buying one, or other cars I should consider? Thanks for the input!

The car is amazing—definitely lives up to the hype!

The driving experience is still top-notch, but the interior tech feels a bit dated now. No blind spot monitoring or radar cruise, which are more common in newer cars. That said, the 2018 model comes with the front LSD, which really helps with understeer when pushing it hard.

@Drake
Honestly, I like the lack of driver aids in a car like this. It gives you more control and doesn’t interfere with the fun.

Addison said:
@Drake
Honestly, I like the lack of driver aids in a car like this. It gives you more control and doesn’t interfere with the fun.

Fair point. For me, it’s just about having the option. Would’ve been nice to at least see some features carried over from other Focus models, like the front parking sensors or RGB interior lighting.

Addison said:
@Drake
Honestly, I like the lack of driver aids in a car like this. It gives you more control and doesn’t interfere with the fun.

I drive a Veloster N, and while it’s not an RS, it’s got some great features like crash avoidance that can be turned off entirely. Having the option is nice.

@Zeph
Veloster N is so underrated. It doesn’t hit RS levels, but it’s a ton of fun. Definitely a step above the ST.

I’ve got a 2018 RS and honestly don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything compared to newer cars. The interior was never the selling point—it’s all about how fun it is to drive. It still puts a smile on my face every time I take it out.

@Reagan
Agreed. The styling has held up really well too. Even after all these years, it still looks modern.

I bought my 2018 RS earlier this year with super low miles, and I love it. My only issue is deciding whether to daily it or keep the miles low to preserve value. Part of me wishes I’d gone for an older model with more miles so I could enjoy it without worrying about depreciation.

@Auden
How much did you pay for it? Also, I’d say drive it and enjoy it—it’s what you bought it for!

Mica said:
@Auden
How much did you pay for it? Also, I’d say drive it and enjoy it—it’s what you bought it for!

I paid $45k. I mostly drive my other car daily and take the RS out on weekends, so it’s a nice balance.

I’d say go for it, OP. The 2023 Type R is great, but if you’re set on the RS, it’s worth the hunt. Just be ready to travel—2018 models are getting harder to find.

Cameron said:
I’d say go for it, OP. The 2023 Type R is great, but if you’re set on the RS, it’s worth the hunt. Just be ready to travel—2018 models are getting harder to find.

Yeah, I’ve noticed they’re rare. I’d prefer a blue one, but I’m keeping an open mind.

I bought a 2022 WRX brand new and got bored of it pretty fast. Ended up with a 2017 RS, and it’s easily the best car I’ve ever driven.

Just make sure you know the car’s history. A lot of RS owners drive them hard and don’t always keep up with maintenance.

Bailey said:
Just make sure you know the car’s history. A lot of RS owners drive them hard and don’t always keep up with maintenance.

That’s my main worry. I’m trying to find one that’s been taken care of.

I’ve got a 2018 Nitrous Blue RS with under 10k miles, and I love it. No issues so far, and it still feels special every time I drive it. If you’re worried about interior quality, it’s nothing fancy, but it gets the job done. As for the driving experience, it’s unbeatable.