22 MPG combined. If you’re fixated on maximizing fuel economy, the 2016 Ford Focus RS probably isn’t on your shopping list. This is a hot hatch, a street-legal rally machine designed for exhilarating performance, not hypermiling. The all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged 2.3L engine prioritize grip and power over saving fuel, and that’s why enthusiasts like it. They understand there’s a trade-off, and they’re willing to pay the price at the pump for the driving experience the RS delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the 2016 Focus RS. These figures reflect its performance-oriented nature. The city rating suffers due to the added weight and complexity of the AWD system and the engine’s eagerness to deliver boost. The highway figure is respectable, though its relatively short gearing for a 6-speed manual means the engine will likely be spinning above 2,500 RPM at cruising speeds. This isn’t a relaxed, long-legged touring car, it’s a tightly wound performance instrument.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Focus RS at $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average gasoline prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the fluctuating price of gasoline. Aggressive driving, frequent track days, or living in an area with higher fuel costs can significantly increase this number. The $2,650 figure is a useful benchmark, but it requires careful consideration of your own personal circumstances. Explore all Ford fuel economy data to see how the entire lineup stacks up.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, expect real-world MPG to fluctuate considerably. Many RS owners average closer to 20 MPG overall, especially if they frequently engage the car’s performance capabilities. The AWD system reduces efficiency, particularly in spirited driving. The relatively small fuel tank means you’ll likely be visiting the gas station more often than owners of more fuel-efficient vehicles. Consider the FOCUS MPG across all years before assuming your driving style will match the EPA numbers.

How it compares

In 2016, the Focus RS competed with other performance hatchbacks. The Subaru WRX STI, another AWD competitor with a similar mission, achieved an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. Front-wheel-drive rivals like the Volkswagen Golf GTI (25 MPG combined with the manual transmission) and the Honda Civic Type R (25 MPG combined, later model years) offered significantly better fuel economy. The trade-off, of course, was a different driving experience. The GTI prioritized refinement and accessibility, while the Type R emphasized track-focused performance. The RS buyer valued the all-weather capability and raw power delivery that AWD provided, despite the hit to fuel efficiency. Now that the 2016 Focus RS is a used vehicle, it is important to consider that new models are available that achieve significantly higher MPG, like the Hyundai Kona Electric at 120 MPG combined.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Focus RS isn’t designed for maximum fuel economy, there are still a few steps owners can take to improve their MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The turbocharged engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, so gentle acceleration is key to minimizing fuel consumption in city driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. This is important on the RS, where precise handling depends on consistent tire performance.

Use premium fuel as recommended by Ford. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine is designed to run on premium fuel. Using lower-grade fuel may reduce performance and fuel economy, and can potentially damage the engine over time. Don’t compromise to save a few cents at the pump.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the vehicle that you don’t need. Extra weight reduces fuel efficiency. This includes anything from golf clubs in the trunk to roof racks that are not required.