Offered only as a five-door hatch, the oily bits made up for any misgivings: a 345bhp 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine feeding a state-of-the-art electronic all-wheel-drive system, massive Brembo brakes, computer-controlled suspension and driving modes. The Ford Focus RS Mk3 was launched to the UK on 18 January 2016 (production began at Saarlouis, Germany on 14 January). And with prices for early cars at a reasonable level, the Mk3 RS is finally accessible to everyday enthusiasts – with 500bhp only a credit card away. Indeed, you don’t even need to be a fast Ford fan to appreciate the RS Mk3’s exceptional handling, its ability to hit 60mph in less than five seconds, or its 165mph top speed. But simply because it’s a phenomenal car. Not just because it’s the best hot hatch ever to wear a Blue Oval. Whether you’re addicted to the growl of a boosted five-pot Focus or dedicated to an old-school Cossie, it’s impossible to ignore the Ford Focus RS Mk3 – and the possibility of putting one in your garage. With strong performance, a trick AWD system and the practicality of a five-door hatchback, the Ford Focus RS Mk3 makes for a brilliant hot-hatch.

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