The 2018 Ford Focus RS is renowned for its impressive performance and handling capabilities, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. To ensure this hot hatchback maintains its agility and safety even in the harshest winter conditions, Ford offered a dedicated winter tire package. Understanding the specifications of this package is crucial for owners looking to maximize their Focus RS’s potential year-round.
Winter Performance Specs of the 2018 Ford Focus RS
While the standard 2018 Ford Focus Rs Specs highlight its powerful 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, all-wheel-drive system, and sport-tuned suspension, the winter tire package focuses on optimizing grip and control when temperatures drop. The core of the Focus RS’s performance in winter comes down to maintaining traction on slippery surfaces. This package doesn’t alter the engine output or drivetrain mechanics, but rather enhances the connection between the car and the road, which is paramount for safe and spirited winter driving.
The Winter Tire Package: Designed for Optimal Grip
Ford engineered a specific winter tire package for the 2018 Focus RS, recognizing that the standard summer performance tires are inadequate for snow and ice. This package includes key components designed to work in harmony, ensuring drivers can confidently navigate winter roads.
18-inch Alloy Wheels: Durable and Practical for Winter
The winter package features 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a slight downsizing from the standard 19-inch wheels. These wheels are finished in silver paint, a practical choice for winter as it helps to conceal salt and road grime, keeping them looking cleaner for longer. Despite being designed for practicality, these wheels retain a sporty aesthetic, mirroring the design of the standard wheels and even incorporating the RS logo on the wheel lip, ensuring they complement the vehicle’s performance-oriented appearance. The smaller diameter also allows for a taller tire sidewall, which can offer a more comfortable ride and better protection against pothole damage common in winter.
Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 Tires: Superior Winter Traction
Wrapped around these 18-inch wheels are Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires in size 225/40R18. These are premium winter tires specifically designed for high-performance vehicles. Unlike all-season or summer tires, the Pilot Alpin PA4 utilizes a specialized rubber compound that remains flexible in cold temperatures, and an aggressive tread pattern engineered to bite into snow and ice. This combination provides significantly enhanced grip, shorter braking distances, and improved cornering capabilities in winter conditions. Despite their aggressive tread, these tires are designed to minimize road noise, ensuring a comfortable driving experience even on dry highway stretches.
Features and Benefits: Ease of Installation and Comprehensive Package
The Ford Focus RS winter tire package is designed for convenience. It includes tire pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS) and center caps, making them a direct replacement for the standard 19-inch wheels. The package arrives mounted and balanced, meaning installation is straightforward and can be done at the dealership or at home. This ease of swapping between summer and winter setups is a significant advantage for owners who experience seasonal weather changes.
Pricing and Availability
The winter tire package for the 2018 Ford Focus RS was priced around $1,995 in the US market. Considering that the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires alone cost approximately $225 each, totaling around $900 for a set, the package offered reasonable value, especially given the included wheels, TPMS sensors, and mounting. Notably, in Canada, the winter tire package was included as standard equipment, highlighting Ford’s recognition of the necessity for winter driving capabilities in colder climates.
Conclusion
For owners of the 2018 Ford Focus RS living in regions with winter weather, the dedicated winter tire package is an essential investment. It ensures that the vehicle’s performance and safety are maintained throughout the year, providing optimal grip and control in snow and ice. Understanding the specs of this package, including the durable 18-inch wheels and high-performance Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires, allows owners to make informed decisions to maximize their driving experience, regardless of the season.
