22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, but for the 2017 Ford Focus RS, it’s simply what you pay to get into a very exclusive club of all-wheel-drive hot hatchbacks. Anyone considering this car understands that fuel economy is secondary to the exhilarating performance, razor-sharp handling, and inherent practicality that define it. This isn’t a commuter appliance; it’s a weekend warrior that can surprisingly handle weekday duties.

City and highway performance

The Focus RS’s 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway ratings reflect its turbocharged nature and the demands placed on the engine when driving hard. In urban environments, the stop-and-go traffic and frequent bursts of acceleration to exploit gaps in traffic flow will definitely pull down the average. On the open road, maintaining a steady cruising speed should allow drivers to approach the EPA’s 25 MPG figure, but even then, the temptation to downshift and unleash the engine’s full potential will likely impact economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2017 Ford Focus RS. 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 fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used (premium is recommended for optimal performance in the RS) can significantly alter the actual cost.

Real-world expectations

Expect to see mileage that changes a lot depending on how you drive. Owners who regularly drive hard on backroads or track days will see numbers lower than the EPA estimates. Those who focus on fuel efficiency during their daily commutes may get closer to the highway rating, but most drivers will likely average in the range of 20-23 MPG. As always, aggressive driving will also affect FOCUS MPG across all years when properly recorded.

How it compares

The Focus RS exists in a small but competitive segment. The Subaru WRX STI, another AWD performance icon, carries an EPA rating of 19 MPG combined (17 city/23 highway.) The Volkswagen Golf R, a more refined and arguably more versatile competitor, achieves slightly better figures, rated at 25 MPG combined (22 city/31 highway.) This difference might seem significant at the pump, but for enthusiasts choosing between these vehicles, handling, power delivery, and overall driving experience often outweigh small fuel economy differences. For buyers who might consider other Ford models, all Ford fuel economy data can be found for reference.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use smooth, progressive acceleration whenever possible. The Focus RS’s turbocharger responds readily to throttle input, but managing the accelerator pedal will help prevent unnecessary fuel consumption. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration from a standstill, as these will significantly reduce fuel economy.

Maintain a steady cruising speed on the highway. The faster you go, the more wind resistance you encounter, and the more fuel you burn. Try using cruise control on long trips to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary throttle adjustments.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight inside the car. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or backseat can add weight and reduce fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need to carry with you regularly. Every pound counts.

Consider the car’s drive mode. The “Normal” drive mode favors fuel economy over performance. While it won’t turn the RS into a Prius, it can help reduce fuel consumption during daily commutes. But lets be honest, are you really buying an RS to drive in normal mode?