Ford Media Center

Ford Focus RS Earns AutoGuide.com 2017 Car of the Year Honors

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 13, 2016 – The hot performance hatchback, Ford Focus RS, has just been named winner of the AutoGuide.com 2017 Car of the Year award.

Newly available in North America, Focus RS more than impressed the auto experts at AutoGuide.com.

“Ford Focus RS is one of those rare cars that gets massive hype, then still delivered beyond our wildest expectations,” said Jonathan Yarkony, group editorial director for AutoGuide. “Not only is it a great deal on paper as a practical, all-wheel-drive hatchback, but it leaps right to the top of the hot-hatch segment with 350 horsepower, an enthusiast’s-choice manual transmission and, best of all, its engaging character.”

Over five days of intense back-to-back testing in Southern California, Ford Focus RS battled some fierce competition to bring home the top prize.

“It’s an honor to earn the Car of the Year award from AutoGuide.com,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance. “The success of Focus RS throughout 2016 is testament to the entire Ford team who put all of their energy into creating such a special car that captures the hearts of driving enthusiasts everywhere.”

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.  The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty.  Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services.  The company does that through three customer-centered business segments:  Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs.  Additionally, Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  Ford employs about 174,000 people worldwide.  More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.