Ford Focus RS Showdown - Golf R, STI, Evo X - TV Season 1 Ep. 3 | Everyday Driver

The Focus RS is a car of expectation and history, but it drops into a market that does have excellent competition. We gathered the three other AWD, 300hp cars available for around $40k, and went to a favorite road in search of fun. That means we dusted off an Evo X to stand alongside the Golf R and enduring STI in this showdown with the shiny new, nitrous blue, RS.
Rarely have we been this excited for a comparison. And after driving them back to back, the results were not what we expected.
This is a longer version than was part of our first season on Cable.
Look for another TV episode from one of our past seasons, every month right here on KZbin.
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Thanks for watching!

[@freestyleskyline]

Evo= Old guy thats a retired assassin. I love it

[@bwxmoto]

"It's a like a bunch of little kids picking on some old retired guy, but they don't realize he's a retired assassin!" Best quote of video.

[@Acc0rd79]

Mitsubishi really screwed up cancelling the Evo, I can't even imagine what the next generation Evo would have been capable of! Now Mitsu builds cheap tiny cars, bleh. Bring back the Evo!

[@inspirice9844]

They don't build sports car anymore ;-;

[@Jbrickzz_Official]

Yes seriously. It's depressing. But apparently there is talks about making an evo 11 but as an electric car. I wouldn't want an electric evo so if that does happen. It will be even more depressing

[@yukimoriyama5425]

They building Tanks and Airplanes in Japan from WW1 so they don’t care about the car.

[@pikachupowers]

Do you understand how a business works? Any of you? You need money to build a good car...............

[@waterproof_teabags3592]

@@inspirice9844 they built jets now lol

[@TheTexican05]

21:07: he absolutely nails the Evo X’s handling demeanor. Wad it up into a ball and chuck it into a corner! Definitely have to train yourself with this. It’s been 10-11 years since I rode in a buddy’s prepped EVO X at an auto-X, and I still remember all the sensations vividly… 🥰 Absolute samurai AWD system and eager turbo motor with full bolt ons. 🇯🇵 ❤️ 🍻 -guy obsessed with GTIs and VWs

[@jacesime3722]

As an Evo owner, I'm very happy with your conclusion. As much as I wish the Evo had a nicer interior, at the end of the day, people don't buy this cars for cosmetics. They buy them for performance, which is something the Evo delivers exponentially.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Elguap08 EVO x seats don't fold down (they have some sort of stability bars. I'm not sure but I saw bars when I looked back there), it has a 5 speed transmission, it has a small gas tank EVO x has a stronger engine than the sti, it somehow handles better (even though the sti got a stiffer us pension in 2015), it can take mods much much better than STIs. If I'm choosing a performance car, performance comes first.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Elguap08 I got my brand new 2014 EVO x gsr last month for $30,999. $34k after tax and license (out the door final price). You can 2015s for less than invoice as well. There is noway u can get an STI for those prices right now. That's what makes the STI horrible. The EVO x has not been changed since 2008 and it still out performs the STI. That's sad. If you care about interior then the STI is better. Me personally, so not care for interior at all. I prefer the better performance car. What tech are you talking about? Because none of the STI's tech makes it a better performing car. I'm confused. Better interior, I understand.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Elguap08 oh dang. Australia has some expensive cars. Looks are highly subjective. I think both cars look great. Except for the wings. And the STIs wing is just ridiculous. But I know you can fix that with swapping wings with a wrx. I test drove an STI. They have very nice interior. Boost gauge is nice too. I think they are awesome cars. It just sucks that their engines are known to be unreliable. Yes, on a straight, the EVO is a little better. But when it comes to handling, you can feel the difference. The EVO x is just better. But I don't understand how when it's been unchanged since 2008. The EVO's awd system is better than the STI's. My wife would like an STI but I can't let her get one behave the engines are just unreliable. I can't stay stock on these tiny engines so I would have to modd them and that's just asking for trouble with the STI. I wish Subaru would address their engine issues.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Elguap08 lol! Yeah, it's only covered if you are 100% stock. Get a simple ass tune and a couple of bolt ons (or just the tune alone) and you are fucked. There are plenty that get denied because they aren't stock anymore. The STI is good for people that will absolutely never modd it. And even then, you know you will have ring land failure. I drive my EVO x like a stole it every single day. I will be tracking it (at a small golf kart track) 3 times a month. I'd be scared to drive an STI the way I am driving my EVO.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Elguap08 Very nice! I'm sure you will love it! They will probably have more hp too. You have any info on the 2019 and if the hatch is coming back?!? if the 2019 gets a new engine and the ring land issue is addressed, I'll think about trading my 2012 mustang gt in for it. Also, only if they bring back the hatchback! My wife loves STIs. She really wants one. I would love to own an STI and EVO x at the same time. I hop the issue is addressed.

[@cheungman83]

I came here just for the evo x

[@Monkdonk420]

Me too😂😂

[@Nexus_gt35]

Only reason I clicked on this 😂

[@vga-kingmrc3619]

Had my EVO X FQ400 for 7 years now, i will never get board of it, and will never sell it, its that good!

[@theevilish1685]

I want an Evo X so bad. Even if the interior is basic and cheap and even if it's not the fastest car out of the bunch. Something about the exterior and the mechanical aspect that inspires me to choose it. A true love

[@bonestorm007]

I love how you still compare to the evo even though its out of production. It was the benchmark for ages. And so true - the evo has been using torque vectoring since the 90s!

[@deddjay]

"How about we don't retire the car-- we just retire the gearbox? Can we do that?" Preach!!!!!

[@allendaniels3768]

I bought a modded 16' Nitrous Blue Focus RS. I just drove from the West Coast to the East Coast and back. Three tickets and 7500 miles later, I can say that I am happy that I have this car.

[@jfnurod]

I've watched this video atleast 10 times and have own 2 of these 4 cars. Recently went from an Evo X to a 19 STI and I know exactly what you mean by the rubber band feel in the steering! I'm amazed how much better the power and handling was in the evo.

[@RockyFTL]

I remember watching your guys EVO X review years back and just getting excited to hopefully own one one day, and now I do. I love it and wouldn't trade it for anything, it's definitely not for everyone, the gas tank is small, only 5 gears, noisy, small trunk, and now the seats aren't the best but if you can look past that you got yourself a car that can hold it's own in the straights and in the corners like no other. It's crazy the car is still relevant here about 8 years after it's release, I feel like I own a piece of history :)

[@RB25luv]

You bought a 2014 or brand new

[@weixuansun9325]

evo is a legend, as u said. tech from 8 years ago still beats others.

[@JacksonStrain]

Haha I did the same bought my X MR after watching these guys, and the best part all the good things they said we true and none of the negatives bother me so it's perfect

[@michaelsiebs5143]

got my evo X bro and i still love it. it is still a piece of history.

[@Marbind]

Keep it as long as you can. Their depreciation rate is super slow. I cant afford one but at least have something that is a bit close to it. 2015 Lancer Ralliart. The best thing of having them is how big the market is for the 4B11T and also you dont need to worry about sludge accumulating on the intake cam like the majority of cars on this review.

[@th3b0yg]

I like the way your cinematographer pays attention to the landscape, including the sounds of the environment. It really adds to the watching experience. Well-made short movies that are also car reviews.

[@turbo108]

Evo X all day🙌 it's the retired assassin. Best commend

[@danielcamacho1913]

Comment that made me keep my Evo!

[@CoconutExprez]

I love my 2014 Evo gsr. Best decision made

[@BP-fx3qc]

I love your evo too, best year. I miss seeing evos on the road, my sti has no one to play with anymore.

[@ripperx444]

I miss selling my evo x so much. That car with an AMS tune, intake and catback was a BEAST. Best handling I ever had out of the box and was fast as fuck.

[@IASEAGLE5]

I have had an Evo X and 2018 Focus RS. I sold the RS after only 4k miles. Good car but I always drove off in my Evo when it was time to go somewhere.

[@jfazzuoli3813]

This test shows just how good the Evo was and is....

[@FerpiliciousProducts]

It kind of does performance wise. It has taken the STI an extra 7 or 8 years to catch up to a stagnant platform, as well for any other serious competition.

[@Mrlolibre]

+FerpiliciousProducts Subaru was smart as a company and focused on other cars in their lineup. They new that the STI is a niche car and wouldn't ever sell enough to keep the company growing, unlike Mitsubishi that poured everything they had in the EVO which ultimately lead to their company being now non-existent. Now that Subaru is doing much better as a company, it's about to be a golden era for the STI.

[@FerpiliciousProducts]

+Mrlolibre If you think Mitsubishi is broke because of R&D into the Evolution platform you need to go and look at the entire company. Mitsu's broke because they cant pick a market to stay in and it looks like they may have finally found a place in crossovers and small SUV's. Mitsubishi as a company is terrible, but the Evo has always been a more impressive car. Even the inferior USDM Evo 8 out performed the US STI despite being heavier, having less horsepower, and less torque. The Evo was a great car, I'm not much a fan of the X but it's still alright, and definitely not the reason Mitsu is in such financial strife. When STI actually releases a WRX that I enjoy more than a V5/V6 WRX STI I'll be impressed.

[@maksim.7361]

@@FerpiliciousProducts dang u told him😳😂

[@05EVORS]

Looking back at this 4 years later I can only imagine how the attitude changed about Focus w the warranty problems and short run/lack of aftermarket vs others. The Evo only needed the ole Recaros to nail the win lmao. Crazy how the seats are everything in that car and even w lancer seats it almost won. This rally segment is now gone except for the dumbed down soft/rubbery bushinged Sti which needs about 10 things to get it to a good starting point against the others. Owned an Evo 8RS for 7 years and a '15 STI for 4 yrs....the OLD Evo CT9A chassis to ME is a better car than an Sti. The rental parts bin Focus RS was a well executed disaster

[@oFiGuReZo]

I love the Recaro seats in my 2014 Evo GSR. Idk why they took those out.

[@WarrenG19]

New safety regulations require airbags in the seat... although the Recaros in the RS have airbags so I dunno why they couldn't have used a similar design.

[@xXspark365Xx]

They lost the partnership

[@UltimateCARNUT]

@@WarrenG19 The Evo Recaros have airbags in the seats.

[@jimsmith8797]

Save money. Can’t believe it still. Looks damn funny without them

[@melvinmeligrito4103]

2014 for me is the best year for the Evo X.

[@socalsupercars420]

Such a shame that Mitsubishi had to get rid of the Evo X's Recaro seats for 2015+.

[@shobin05]

And then get rid of the only good car they make.

[@customX09]

Canada still got them!

[@DoctorWhoNow01]

+customX09 the car was discontinued everywhere... Sadly...

[@GrandCamino6]

I think customx09 was referring to the Recaro seats for the 2015 Canadian market Evo's. Such a bummer that the last year had those crappy Lancer seats due to the side airbags being required for the US market ;(

[@stigmsr1]

And that's why we can't have nice things ;-)

[@elliotbaldwin545]

Another great video. I'm amazed at the production and polish. You guys deserve a million subscribers not a hundred and fifty thousand for this quality. Keep it up! You'll get there!

[@EverydayDriver]

Thanks for saying this. Really glad you enjoy our work!

[@jehadfaleh1648]

agreed

[@jehadfaleh1648]

agreed

[@emlix1]

I've had VW's, subi's and I recently drove an RS, but the best car I ever owned, and I still own it, is my Evo X.

[@Itachlazcano21]

emlix1 facts best car ever evo x and it can make more power then those other cars

[@roguetune03]

Evo X out handles the RS and will make a ton more power on stock motor.

[@jackvanepps7301]

I really like the Evo X but I will always love my baby, my Focus RS

[@williampgalloway]

I miss my EVO X

[@johnnyturbo8460]

Only problem with the EVO is on the race track or pushed for more then 10 minutes hard, it BREAKS! And often. That's why you really don't see them owning ANY race track. Plus it looks SOOOOOOO dated! Evo "its like driving a garbage disposal, its fun but i want to get out" couldn't have said it much better..

[@Mechanic618]

Thanks for calling out Mitsu for removing the wonderful Recaros from the Evo for the final model year(s). The Evo is extremely fun to drive, even daily. But the 2015 model year is the worst of the Evo X years due to them cutting corners like removing the Recaros.

[@tpumpiscmibicv]

Only if you live in America. Everywhere else got the Recaros in 2015 including Canada

[@durrantmiller8810]

Why don't they have recaro seats in the EVO in the US> Because the RS is allowed to have Recaro seats in the US.

[@durrantmiller8810]

VVarrio Oh, ok.

[@VaunShiz]

Eh the only reason I see is to make it more comfortable to daily

[@mnsomniacs]

The MR leather Recaros have side airbags.

[@frtorres87]

I just want to express my appreciation for the amazing videos you guys put out for us. Top notch quality and you guys are informative and entertaining.

[@EverydayDriver]

Thank you. Glad to have you with us and enjoying our work!

[@tonyoliver2330]

the evo reminds me of Doc Hudson in Cars. Old and retired but gets the job done as well as anyone else

[@bongofury3176]

Had plenty of hot hatches and I have to say I am enjoying my Golf R the most. As an everyday driver it just can't be beaten. Comfortable, fairly lavish, brutal fast (APR stage 1), subtle, attention deflecting - nobody expects the German inquisition.

[@richardbrown1553]

I was so happy when Ford decided to bring the RS to the States, then I drove one. As a track car it would be great! But on the roads around Seattle, it felt like I was in a covered wagon due to it bucking on every little bump. It was tiring to drive as an everyday car. But otherwise, you were spot on!!

[@jxke9299]

just got a focus rs, and I'm in love, honestly didn't know between a sti or this (we used to have a sti) but I also wanted to get something different, and I'm glad I went with the focus, they couldn't have worded it better, you really have to drive one to understand.

[@DudeTF2]

Just bought one, I can not believe how much fun driving can be. I had no clue until I got behind the wheel of this.

[@NDEEZMiata]

You guys really deserve more subscribers. You guys bring out great content and explain cars in terms of the real world rather than just spec sheets. It's really helpful to us as consumers. Keep up the good work!

[@BrettsGarage]

6 years later and the only one still being produced is the Golf R. It's faster and more refined and has some better gimmicks (drift mode). I'd like to see them do this comparison again but with the best of each generation. These are now enthusiast cars and creature comforts don't matter as much and I think the evo would be the winner.

[@NCLme]

Evo is made for enthusiasts - I see the RS as a result of Evo-lution that was made new again. Still you can't beat that drift mode, best two out of 4

[@matts6551]

Put on a proper exhaust on the STI and throw it in some snow and that is the clear winner

[@nilnine1231]

As someone who is in the market for one of these cars... I've been in all of them but the RS. You cannot buy an RS for less then 45k right now (in most cases 50k+) due to price gouging. and it will probably be like that for 2 more years. So already that car isn't going to happen. The Evo was Easily the best handling car. I had it for a day while the dealer tried to convince me to buy it and I was impressed by its cornering. I agree with what they were saying, Counter to what you want to do if it's understeering, just bury the throttle and it pulls you out of the corner like Flippen magic. The problem I had with the Evo is for a 35k car, the Interior felt like you were buying a 18k Econocrap that someone slapped on an after market turbo. Once you were on boost its great! Try crossing a street to pull out of the grocery store though. 6k clutch dump or it isn't going anywhere fast. I felt like this car was bread for the track and would be the best car there, but sacrificed too much on the street as a daily driver. That 5speed gear box sucked. Almost 4k at80mph on the highway was killer. TERRIBLE gas milage. I mean I'm not expecting anything amazing but I was getting around 16mpg driving normally. It also had no power to go over 120mph which the STI was easily able to do and my current 2008 350z Nismo can do. The STI had amazing power delivery downlow. Unlike the evo you can take off at 1500-2000 rpms and not feel like the car is going to stall. Its quick to get up and go. The interior while a bit busy was nicer and and seemed like it was more inline with the 37k asking price. I also got to take out a STI for the day. It didn't handle quite as well as the Evo, with tons more understeer, but the power delivery seemed more suited for the road where you can drive it out of the last 2k RPMs. The breaking felt slightly behind the evo both in terms of progressive pedal feel and 60-0, but still felt great. But let me tell you that car was beautiful. Out of all the cars its easily my favorite. While driving it around I had tons of people smiling and waving at me and giving thumbs up. These things also don't depreciate at all. The Golf R I drove had an exhaust and Intake and a tune. I have no idea what the numbers were. But it was Quick. The interior was comfy and felt a bit more refined. But man did that thing rocket off the line. It just gripped and gone. Unlike the Evo and to a lesser extent the STI you drop the clutch and no bogging out of boost it just hooks and rips. My problem with the golf R is I don't think they look good. It looked boring. Every day when I open my garage to my Nismo 350z I have a huge grin, I feel like this wouldn't do the same. The one I drove was owned by someone who clearly beat the piss out of it so I cannot comment on the state of the 6 speed, but after 23k on the clock it was grinding and the syncros were toast. If I had to choose one for Daily I'm leaning towards the STI. Its fast, It has interior niceties, it looks amazing. It comfortable to drive around in and the drive mode switch can make it twitchy or soft or even in between. Not to mention the resale of them, they just don't lose value. If I had to choose one for 8/10th to 10/10th driving it would be the Evo. Despite being so fat, that car can pull of miraculous feats of cornering. I have a few back roads I like to hit at crazy numbers when no one is around and where my Nismo 350z can hit one particular corner at 85-90 MPH the Evo managed 70-75MPH and the STI hit it at 60-65. Keep in mind the Nismo is seem welded and is 275s in front and 305s in the rear. I would love to drive the evo on some real meat someday.

[@imaginarytoast]

*braking :)

[@Truepk]

The RS is limited like previous RS versions. I believe the focus platform will be updated soon, so no more RS when they update that.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

I just bought a brand new 2014 EVO x gsr last month for $30,999. Out the door after taxes and license was $34k and a few hundred. I got recaros since it is the 2014. The 2015s are going for less than invoice right now as well. Im sure you can get one for 32k or lower with some bargaining skills. I mean, they need to get rid of them. I'm happy they sacrificed the interior for a better track car because that is exactly what I bought the car for. Lol. I just raced it last night at a local small gokart track and got the best time. And it was my first time taking it there. I don't need to do a single thing to it. It just comes track ready! Only thing that I hate on it doesn't have a 6 speed transmission and the mpg is horrible. I own a 2012 mustang gt and it makes my stang feel like a damn gas saver. I knew all this before I bought it but the way in driving it right now, I'm filling up every 2 days.

[@jdmmaster345]

Brand New 2014 Car its 2016 you know lmao 2 years old is not new my friend

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

+Kenton Patterson I knew someone wouldn't believe me. It's KZbin. Why the fuck would I lie about getting a fuckin brand new EVO? Lol. It was actually hard to get it financed as a new car because my bank's system would not accept it as a new car. But it is new and it has never been owned by anyone. It had 22 miles when I test drive it. I got financed (took a while) for a brand new car. You can only get that when they are new. Dealership actually had two new 2014 EVO x GSRs. They have a shit load of 2015 EVO Xs! You need some sort of proof? God damn.

[@nycmaster]

Great job guys! This is my favorite genre of cars and glad the EVO was included.

[@EmVeeMediaYT]

I have a 2016 manual Golf R Stage one APR and it's amazing! making 400hp and 415tq at crank with a tune and a couple bolt ons. Yet switch it into comfort mode and shift at 2k and you'd never know. in race mode, stomp on the go pedal from any gear, any engine speed and you're gone! Took a Z28 to 165mph by 3 cars. I've smoked many V8s well into triple digits. It simply does everything well. Also took it on a nearly 3000 mile road trip and netted 28.6mpg loaded with a week's luggage and a total of 5 people.

[@chazyronnie]

Here's my list 1) EVO X - well engineered on power and handling performance, NOTHING beats the S-AWC 2) Ford Focus Rs - power and modern interior 3) STI - the 2.5L is weak and still understeer 4) Golf R - comfort and nice interior

[@vaflur]

Dear EverydayDriver! I would like to thank you for this amazing review! I was an evo fan for a long time, but did not have a chance t get one. After watching numerous reviews, and all your evo reviews in particular, I went to a dealership, convinced them to let me test drive it and in the end I finally bought my dream car. The handling and dynamics is simply unmatched ( I drove gtr, lambos, ferrari, so I know what a fast cars feels like) and I am so blessed to finally get my hands on something that I truly wanted for a very long time. Thankfully, here in Canada we get EVO X Final Edition with Recaro seats)) I know that Evo is quite old, and sometimes, especially seeing new Focus RS videos everywhere, I question myself, maybe I was too quick with my decision, but this review proved, that Evo is still superior when it comes to handling and driving experience, and thats what matters to me the most!. So thank you once again for keep making amazing reviews! You really help people with their decisions!

[@EverydayDriver]

Thanks for saying this! More than anything we're wanting to help people find a car that excites them, and like you, a car they are thrilled to own. Glad to have you with us and encouraged by your story!

[@vaflur]

+Byron Bailey yeah, I am planning to enjoy it as much as I can stock first, then I'm probably going to add some power. I heard a lot of good things about Cobb, but I'm not sure where I can get it in Montreal. Anyways, I will have plenty of time to do my research and maybe someday, I'll make a trip to Cobb HQ, tune it over there and head straight to California roads, to completely fulfill my dream))

[@driveshift]

+Maxim you can just order the accessport and parts. You can go to any local accessport tuner. If anything, try the off the shelf maps.

[@gentlemonsterkennels]

Congrats!!!!! I just bought a brand new 2014 EVO x gsr (wicked white) a month ago and love it! So I got the reacro seats! Lol. I own a 2012 mustang gt as well (kept it) and the EVO is slower (obviously) on a straight. But man! The way this thing handles is unreal. I can not get over the feeling. With my stang, I was scared to push it when coming to any twisty road. With the EVO, I just feel like pressing the easy button. I just raced the EVO at a local gokart track last night and got the best time. The car is track ready! I took my stang to the same track in 2012 and I regretted it. Track too small for that v8. But the EVO does just fine. The only thing I would change is the 5 speed transmission. But other than that, it is an amazing machine! Congrats again!!

[@vaflur]

+Marlowe Campos yeah, thanks for the info! I just moved to Canada from Europe, so I have to find a professional garage that can properly install car parts.

[@mkygod]

Isn't it kinda ironic that the best everyday car (Golf R) came in last in a car comparison from Everyday Driver?

[@carsaregood911]

Only of the guys said it came last

[@theshonen8899]

And the one that was "last" was actually tied. The point of the channel is to find cars that fit people's lives while still being fun. You can buy a normal Focus or Mazda 3 and have fun by taking it to the limits. You shouldn't have to do that with the Golf R. The Focus RS was placed higher because it maintains the ability to drive comfortably while also being close to the Evo in fun and handling.

[@meganjay30]

VW is getting overtaken that's why... they have gone to sleep at VW and the golf r, well it feels like it's simply "gone to sleep" and you need to wake it up again every time you're ready to go fast....

[@rasvial]

well.. the subie probably is- if you're willing to give up on perfomance. But yeah- there is very little depth to this review

[@thebadmanreturns]

best my ass

[@airj17]

The power of the rs, the interior of the golf, the driving feel and sayc of the evo, the looks of the sti...

[@z750sgearzz8]

You guys make quality videos, again right on the money with a thorough review and some really unbiased opinions with your choices. Nice work!

[@LSs1Power]

What if the Evo had the Recaro seats? Would of that change your winning order in terms of fun?

[@Eddie820]

I'd be happy with the RS and the EVO in my garage. RIP EVO, you will be missed.

[@archiei40x]

Watched this video, then proceed to get what my heart desire. Bought the 2016 STi. Saw this video again on my recommended today, decided to watch it again. I still won't change my mind. Test drove the other 3, Evo interior isn't for me. The amount of HP coming from RS makes me think it was overtuned from factory so I was afraid of it's reliability and today, I don't regret thinking this way. Issues with so many including my friends'. For DD, I would have definitely picked the Golf R, it was refined, comfy and much more quiet compared to the others for me. Unfortunately, I wanted a semi track car that I can daily and also be able to carry family members with me for road trips. STi was very roomy and seating position was comfortable. It has it's cons, it's rather loud compared to the RS & Golf R, it's got vibration noises here and there but, I can live with it. Choose what you want and be happy about it. Cheers.

[@BP-fx3qc]

Congrats and best of luck with your sti. I own a 17 myself and love it

[@archiei40x]

@@BP-fx3qc Ay, same to you!

[@sayaddesign]

Lol, subies will throw rods before a even more aggressive tune on the RS

[@BP-fx3qc]

@@sayaddesign sure

[@ExplicitAutoClub]

EVO X ALL DAY EVERYDAY!!

[@MarkCalica]

This has to be one of the best showdown on the internet. Great review guys.

[@kennyrmrz]

I absolutely love your car showdowns, let alone your car reviews! I am hoping you guys do another showdown once the USDM Civic Type R arrives!

[@TonyTheTruckGuy]

Subscribed. Great resolution, good humor, good analogies and seemingly unbiased information without too much brand bashing, despite the lengthy video. Keep up the good work!

[@marqevox9745]

I’ve owned my X for 9 years last month, and know X owners that used to be Subie owners. We all agree Evo has been and is still the goat. You can run 500+ on stock internals easy. The S-AWC is awesome. And, it’s an Evo. Hopefully they make large changes to the WRX in 2020 (bring back the hatch), and I may trade in though.

[@hmmmmdoesitmatter]

End of the day, they are all awesome cars! I had an Evo 8 and now an RS. Love them both about equally, but for different reasons.

[@Blazerghost]

Two fantastic cars.

[@swanblake]

I mean.....this video is a work of art. Breathtaking good

[@markwestfield1928]

I can't get enough of this video, saw it first several years ago.. so well done love these guys.. yes I've owned an '08 GSR since new.. have always felt the same way

[@polarbear111000]

Thank you SO MUCH for addressing the "smoking of the tires" issue. It always drives me crazy watching motor journalists "sell a car" based on these huge smoking tire drifts that almost none of us can perform (not lacking the skill, but lacking the environment), or the money for the tires they are destroying. Thanx!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@EverydayDriver]

Drifting looks amazing on camera, especially in slow-mo, but we don't think it's part of most people's car ownership. It is fun though! Thanks for agreeing with our point here, and taking the time to comment!

[@codyhaddon6781]

I absolutely love my final edition Evo and we get the recaro seats over here in oz.

[@eeeen321]

Awesome review. The old Evo is still hanging on like a champ. Shame those horrid seats were supplied.

[@moonsapling]

I saw a 500hp STI on a track day. God it was fast. I also saw a 350hp STI on a rally day. It won the race actually. From personal experience, I would take the Subaru cause i can do whatever I wish with it. Evos are the only other car that can do such stuff as well. Just take either one lf them. Japanese cars...its all about them.

[@csboi]

Don't forget Ford has it's Rallye heritage roots dating back to the 1960's, decades before both Mitsubishi and Subaru.

[@moonsapling]

@@csboi as i said... If its not Japanese, its not my car. I just like the nation who build them, the way they build them etc.

[@patrickhasachannel]

this video made me laugh and left me on the verge of tears. the RS and GolfR have been on my shortlist, with the JCW Countryman for my next ride, I'm so perplexed with how to proceed. I'm glad I subscribed

[@markespiritu3289]

Evo = "Retired Assassin" :))))

[@ZRubidium]

EverydayDriver, Thank you for this review, this is what I've been looking for. I moved to So-Cal last year and had a 350z that I took to the track when I lived in Washington on the road course. Last summer the fuel prices sky rocketed I found myself looking for a daily driver. I picked up a Mazda 3 skyactiv (yes pretty boring but wonderful on fuel), well long story short ended up selling the Z as I never could find the time or a reliable means to get to Streets of Willow track. After selling the Z and driving the Mazda, I knew I would miss the occasional weekend/Friday drives. It's been getting pretty bad wanting to drive something with some more power while being comfortable to commute. The Golf R has caught my eye and really been trying to get a chance to drive one. I thought the RS was pretty awesome, but the interior just didn't do it for me. I'm in my 30's and the interior on the Golf is one thing that really caught my eye. Thanks again for the honest and great review.

[@Kismetix]

Wow...absolutely excellent review! I found myself agreeing with everything in it, right up to the conclusions that I think are absolutely spot on. You guys do fantastic work in these reviews, which have a very polished and professional look to them!

[@MrDeepzek]

No matter what I'd still take EVO... It still feels more special and I love how it looks. If that's the only problem, you can just buy Recaros and swap it out

[@interceptingfist5682]

X's are ugly stock. A 9 is where it's at

[@bigjammz5701]

@@interceptingfist5682 but for that sort of money there are better options than the 9

[@MondayMotorvation]

You reassured my choice of waiting on the RS. I love the evo but I cant deal with a almost decade old transmission and interior. Pleasure meeting you guys at the Autobahn

[@randyurbina4749]

Great review. Glad they included the Evo

[@kindlentech316]

Thanks guys for this video--very well done. I got to rent a 2015 Focus RS for a day and it was a blast. It was more fun to drive than my 2011 WRX. The seats in the RS were just too stiff for me and even in Normal mode the suspension also was too stiff. But I loved driving it through the back mountain roads in Colorado.

[@Promit]

This is by a wide margin the best review on YT and perhaps anywhere of any and all of these four cars. Thank you, guys.

[@EverydayDriver]

Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!

[@kevintang8290]

Evo for the win! I love my Evo. Mine is 7 years old but it's still amazing.

[@jmelgar4763]

I love my RS, handles amazingly, but this makes me curious to drive an EVO X🤔

[@henry6777]

I had an blobeye STI, also daily a Golf R. Tracked my friend's EVO 9....and I can tell ya, EVOs are handling monsters. For an AWD car I was expecting pretty bad understeer...but no, that can wants to be fling around the corner, with a wheel lifted it still wanna go.

[@kyleedwards8180]

Watched this video several times. Love the points you guys have made and I’m hoping to pick up the red 2018 focus RS sometime soon! Keep up the great work!

[@Randomdumplin]

Did you get an RS?

[@doublegi2880]

I don't understand why everyone's complaining about evo's interior. Everything's really practical, no hassle and let's you keep your eyes on the road and I think interior looks very nice. It's just enough stylish and just enough regular.

[@davidreyes1203]

Dear Everyday Driver, Thank you for mentioning the S2000 in this video. I know it really wasn't relevant but it's keeping me from wanting to sell my S2000. I will hold onto it just like people are holding onto their Evos. Your video is pushing me to pick up an STI. The RS is great but it's going to be around for a few years. This will be the last year that the prehistoric dinosaur *cough* I mean STI will be available. What the STI has shown is that it's a reliable engine and they hold a lot of value. Ford on the other hand....... Thank you for all your great videos.

[@MrZz108]

Thanks for the great review. I'd put the Focus RS in 1st, and the Golf R in 2nd. Something that many people seem to forget about both the Golf R and the Golf GTI, is that the aftermarket potential of these cars is insane. You can purchase a SOFTWARE calibration from APR that adds 110 lb-ft of torque without one single hardware mod. That is insane and should absolutely be factored in to your decision if you are buying one of these cars. Volkswagen de-tuned those cars significantly from what they are capable of.

[@shad3128]

I still wouldn't buy a Volkswagen because of tuning potential. They don't hold up worth a shit over time. The Japanese cars will handle the mods much better for your dollars spent.

[@kdavid123186]

@@shad3128 dude where you been for last 10years ? Wtf what Japanese car respond better to mod compared to golf R ?

[@coreyploof217]

@@shad3128 old comment but the R can take mods no problem. My 2015 has been stage 2 since break in and has 97k miles on it now man I’ve never had a single issue. Only ever done maintenance/plugs and normal things you should do to a tuned car and I commute over a hour one way to work everyday.

[@oscarzana1728]

The Evo 9 is by far the best of them all and can still hold its own over 10 years later!

[@TerrannotOP]

It's 2022 and I have been using the Evo X since 2014, the only car I would choose to upgrade to is a cayman s/gts but those prices are ridiculous. Looks like I am keeping the X for much longer than intended

[@edreyez484]

lancer Evo still the best after many years.. i know everybody is excited for coming of next evo..

[@haydentakara4369]

It won’t happen

[@zed4me]

Cool video! Seeing an RS at autocross was really awesome.. the way it and the R handled was astounding to watch. The Golf R came out on top that day but it was less than .1seconds quicker, and it also had the DSG so in my mind the RS is the true winner (although different drivers so can't really compare). I'm just happy there's competition out there cause it makes every car better.. time for Subaru to step up their game and bring something new to the STI.

[@naderyoussef6486]

your videos are awesome

[@zed4me]

Mike Yousef Thank you sir.

[@SofaKingTouge]

If you look at the 2017 Golf R on the VW website they made a few changes. There is now literally only 2 options. Color and manual or DSG. They all have DDC now. They also put on lighter wheels. Every time I saw the 2015 or 2016 Golf R in test I was like "why do you have such heavy wheels on the car?" But now the 2017 should hold up better to the RS.

[@ashtonmurch2142]

But....your R will dust any of these with the stage tune on it now.

[@zed4me]

Ashton Murch maybe, but I like all cars.. competition is good. Anyone can put a tune on their car like I did..

[@klevis1994]

Love the video guys! Just got my 2018 Ford Focus RS LZ Limited edition in AUS! Love it

[@justinutt5068]

This is the video I needed to watch without even knowing it. Great video!

[@kayinoue2497]

Everyday Driver has come such a long way. :D

[@ApexIXMR]

I'd like to see a track battle between these by an experienced driver. As the owner of an '06 Evolution IX MR and a '10 X GSR, I can say with confidence that the Evo would come out on top.

[@qleap99]

As the owner of an X, debating whether to aquire an IX, my question to you is, which car, the IX or the X, is the better performer apples to apples (i.e. both modified similarly), or are they basically equivalent?

[@BlizzardWind99]

@@qleap99 X is for driver-friendly while IX is more of a race car.

[@georgeapplegate2091]

wanted to see the rs vs evo video for ages,glad I found this! I'll get another evo :)

[@vigneshswaminadhan3953]

Honest reviews...amazing camerawork and audio...Cheers guys! subscribed...:)

[@4240cameron]

Why are people always hating on the design of the Golf R? It looks magnificent.

[@jackkonieczny25]

it is nice, and sharp, but the problem is , is that if are paying 40,000 for a golf, it should look different than the 27,000 $ gti

[@dunny1977jd]

Everyone puts it on a pedestal, when yeah it's a nice car. But it's not the be all end of hatchbacks. Now I'm not a Ford gut by any means either but there many Moe options pout there. Just gotta look for them.

[@Iconhulk]

Cuz it looks like something you find on the golf course..

[@knightridder2002]

@@jackkonieczny25 no, that the fun in the golf R it look like a 200 hp car and it has 300hp it call a sleeper unless you are in the know of what that car is you will be dumbfounded when it takes off on you. I would not change any of the looks. I wish they would do the same thing to the beetle.

[@bman1668]

No one wants a 40+k ugly German flat looking hatch that looks uglier than Ford Focus and spends it’s time at the shop most of its life. Just like most review show it can’t even go to the track without breaking down. That’s why my friend .

[@TheWTFsauce]

I'm glad they brought back the evo for this review I feel like people ignore the fact that the car is still epic in its own right

[@PRL1290]

wow he said sliding around on lunch trays. that brought me back to high school.

[@XxJuk3b0xh3r0xX]

I love these reviews because they lay out the strengths and weaknesses of all these cars, so in the end all you’re really left with is your own preference of which car you like most. Buuuuttttttt of course I choose the evo all the way.

[@jesusangeles152]

Should have gotten an 2014 evo x sss package it's got the nicest interior out of all evos and has the heated leather recaro seats

[@raulx326]

Evo x for me

[@socalsupercars420]

2014 and below. 2015 without Recaro's is bleh

[@jrcu19]

Seconded! I actually bought the Evo because of one of the reviews this channel did. I am sure the RS is great BUT I don't trust Ford with an AWD on their first year of production.

[@RX-78-2_Fan]

amen!

[@jrcu19]

+VVarrio If you can find those recaro seats that is.

[@jrcu19]

+VVarrio I been looking for them for a while and I can't find any those Recaro seats. could u share the link or where to buy them?

[@frankmalone236]

Gentleman, first view of your review. Immensely enjoyed...subscribed. Thank you

[@willmareduardo27]

Thanks for the awesome content KZbin needs more people like you

[@AlejandroArchila1]

Evo All Day Any Day!!!

[@brandonfriesen5389]

Great review guys! But I have a rant on why you did it wrong...I feel like you guys imagine that these cars are dedicated tracks cars and will hardly ever do a school run or work commute. As soon as he said that analogy of the swimmer being intelligent, I started to disagree since in a hot hatch you do want power, but you also want comfort and practicality. If you didn't want comfort and practicality, that's when you buy a dedicated track car. Thus, I think a fair review of all these cars is focusing not only on power, but also on real world usability, practicality and comfort. And in that respect, the Golf R wins by a mile, since it has the power, it's still boat loads of fun, still very involving and rewarding, BUT it's still super comfortable, gets economy car like fuel economy, blends into the crowd so it has sleeper status and nobody will key it at the shopping mall parking lot. All too often though, these reviews of the super hot hatches are ONLY focusing on performance, when that's not what these cars are ALL about. I'm awaiting the release of motortrends comparison on the RS vs the R and am already confident they'll just focus on performance...

[@SofaKingTouge]

I was thinking the same thing. I might have sex with the hot chick but there has to be more going on if I'm bringing her home.

[@jasoncee666]

the golf R sucks balls and is a business man's sports car. it's not a true drivers car and it's always been that way and it will continue. Get over it man Ford wins this class now and maybe Subaru can do something. VW can but they won't because they sell this car to business people, not people with racing in their blood.

[@EverydayDriver]

We hope you noticed the debate at the end where the Evo suffered and Golf was praised for the reasons you've mentioned. The discussion here was about far more than just the power of the cars (power was only a small section) but we definitely want people to find cars that stir them and feel fun. There are many wonderfully practical, comfortable cars that aren't engaging. We also realize it's a sliding scale, as even Paul and Todd have different tolerance levels and needs when it comes to a car's fun vs. practicality. Thank you for your thoughts and for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@jasoncee666]

EverydayDriver it was a great review, loved seeing the evo back and your thoughts. Ha-ha them seats wtf! You guys always seem to do great un bias reviews. Thanks.

[@brandonfriesen5389]

EverydayDriver Yes, I did notice that end part after I wrote my comment. I then agree, since as a normal person, I work Monday to Friday 9-5 and want a car that will not annoy me and will put a smile on my face going there and back. I want a car that is calm and collected and that can be a regular econo box(because who doesn't like savings at the pump?) but also I want a car that can make my inner 9 year old, shine, and be a decent track car, if that day comes. And for that, I fell in love with the R. I drove the Evo, drove the new STI and WRX(I prefer the WRX), drove an M235i, and the RS and R, and for sheer fun to drive, the Evo and RS totally won me over, but I had to think about how I would be putting 16,000 miles a year on it, in four seasons, and doing the occasional roadtrip, and for that, the R is the clear winner. I'll be ordering one in the fall.

[@SPURTIS00]

It's refreshing to see a video about awd performance cars by guys that like them. And i believe your comparisons.

[@ravipeiris4388]

I love both of you guys. You guys have good energy and enjoy what you do. Everyone can see that.........

[@automafiaracing]

hmmm really debating getting an RS now... but then again... EVO

[@joegastaneta87]

I'm not your typical hot hatch buyer .I am 51 years old and I'm proud to say I have owned two evo's, a 8 and first year x .I currently Drive R35 GT-R so I can say I know my way around a sophisticated all-wheel-drive suspension. without a doubt I can say that the evil 10 is ten is the closest thing on the market in that price range that comes even close to handling like a GTR. so for my birthday I gave myself a new final edition evo x , so I can park my GTR and not put so many miles on it , in Japan the Evo is known as the baby Godzilla. I believe it to be so, the review I believe it to be right on point , the golf r has the German quality interior,but is the most expensive and the most ugliest of the four not to mention the slowest, the Subaru STI is nothing but a stage 4 Subaru that turns it into an Evo want to be, even the wing like a mitsubishi, the engine is the weakest link in that car and cannot hold any real power. The focus is the only car other than the evo that I would even consider owning but still is new to the market and issues that the rear end not holding power have been brought up so we'll just have to see . thanks for confirming my choice in buying the Mitsubishi and you're right about the seats I a pair of the recaro seats too fit inside, great review thanks guys.

[@davedavee4154]

You are high... haha the R has the slowest 0-60 time and less hp and torque... the Evo gets 0-60 in 4.8 seconds. Not sure where your getting your shitty info from.

[@davedavee4154]

Go fuck myself? Why? Because my ideas don't corelate to your own? Haha everywhere I look online says the Golf R is slower. Is there some special model I don't know about?

[@lenbathin9182]

Great videos, thank you guys.

[@_Kaurus]

Thank you for the great video. I sooo want the RS. Enjoy !

[@thatcobradude4496]

I'll take the EVO X

[@paulmarsdensr8199]

The STI is the best car in my opinion. In this video.

[@BP-fx3qc]

I'd say they're all great, but the sti is the most balanced out the bunch.

[@Jeremy-io4hm]

I love yalls videos. Thankyou!

[@marktodd4479]

great review guys...for a guy that is currently shopping this was helpful.