GR Corolla vs Focus RS vs Kona N - Waking the Dead | Everyday Driver TV

[@Promit]

I was hoping so much that someone would get the Focus RS back out against the GR Corolla. I loved mine for four years of trouble free ownership and while I've moved on, I still adore the car.

[@EverydayDriver]

Glad you enjoyed this. Thanks for watching!

[@MD-pz3cn]

It's crazy how much hype the RS had, and now it's just died off completely, at least on the Internet.

[@iSOBigD]

I'm not sure why. Maybe it didn't sell much, but it's ways been a great little AWD sportscar and now we finally get AMG, M and other small cars with AWD

[@stevem1362]

Still have my 18' RS, totally stock besides the cat back exhaust. IMO it looks better and sounds WAY better then the GR Corolla, especially with a Mountune V2x exhaust. The Kona N is barf ugly. I liked the Velocitor way better. 2 more years till my extended warranty is done then I'll have to pick between a Kia Stinger (also being axed 😔), Audi S3, VW Golf R or GR Corolla (can't beat Toyota reliability).

[@headcoatee]

Why move on if it gave you trouble free ownership and you adored it? There's nothing in the market I would trade mine in for under 60k.

[@leonwienrich6865]

I love you guys for bringing back the RS and for comparing it to GR! This is what I have been waiting for! Me as someone who had an RS I of course would still pic the RS, but the GR is a really really nice car that is worth the hype! ❤

[@1970borntorun]

Especially now, that Subaru dropped the ball with the new and ugly, generic WRX, and the Evo is long gone.

[@heldermonteiro2718]

I prefer the Peugeot rcz 😊

[@moonrider99]

I love my 2017 FOCUS RS, the last hothatch! a 5 door hatchback turned up to 11. At 100k, I got the updated shocks and mountune springs and the ride is great now. On a back road, I have to look back to remind myself it has rear seats, it's like a true sports car.

[@thisisbenji90]

Crazy there’s already so many 100k RS cars out there. I still haven’t hit 100K in my 2014 ST.

[@BlaziNTrades]

2016 RS here. Still look forward to drive it every day :)

[@christopherscott8272]

My 17 RS only has 34k miles on it and I daily the car.

[@N4tur4lb0rnch1ll4]

I am still in love with my Focus RS

[@buildmorefarms1007]

RS is a fat girl 3460 lbs...too fat for me

[@mjsantiago123]

Same owned a grey 2017 now a blue 2018

[@madmyro]

Same currently own a RS coming from a ST😎

[@stevendobbs3568]

Got fiesta ST stage 3 with multiple tunes....either used RS or GR or the new Z need to make a decision

[@johnbernaudo7631]

I love my Focus Rs (2017 stealth grey) I also love my Focus St (2013 Tuxedo black)

[@FoYo1005]

While it's not a hatchback and it's FWD only, I wish you would have compared the GR Corolla and Focus RS to the Elantra N. I appreciate your show and perspective on each car.

[@EverydayDriver]

As you probably saw if you watched the piece, the through-line is the Hatchback element. We look forward to having the Elantra N in a comparison. Thanks for watching!

[@jakob9292]

Actually probably would've been better to use the veloster n, since that's closer, and it's a hatchback

[@jakob9292]

@Alaberti so, the focus rs has long been discontinued, it's still here

[@TheJaymon1962]

@@jakob9292 I'm about to buy an RS, so it's still here for sure.

[@jakob9292]

@@TheJaymon1962 ... yeah, a used one because it's been discontinued

[@andybiscuits]

Still own a ‘16 RS and it’s my favorite car I’ve owned. It’s so good to see someone bring it back out because even though discontinued, it was the car to beat in this class.

[@abutomtom117]

Took my ‘18 RS to a track day and passed a Huracan and two 911 GTRs. They had me on straights but not enough to make up for the RS’s superiority through corners.

[@shafiaahmad4061]

My brother has a Focus RS 2018. Ford hit a home run with that one. Still the car to beat.

[@bobsagit10]

Car to beat? Compared to its competitors it was the worst. Golf R and type R had miles better interiors and drove way better in the city. Only thing FOCUS did better was looks. Reliability and modifiability it’s also last in.

[@hishamdahud]

Focus RS owner here with 60k miles and… yep, it’s kind of a one trick pony. The suspension is way too stiff around town and combined with a relatively meh interior, it’s not a particularly rewarding experience in any situation other than driving spiritedly. “You’re always searching for the limit” is spot on, it’s VERY rewarding in the twisties, on track and an autocross. In fact, its mind blowing how capable it is compared to cars twice and three times its price. And it’s fun, TONS of fun in those situations. However, it’s entering second-car status for me. I’d say “daily if you must” but it’s better paired with a softer everyday car.

[@glennscottharris]

I've heard aftermarket suspension controller improves ride quality.

[@ThomMurphy]

@@glennscottharris very true. Also the latter dampers help. Lightweight ( >18#) 18" wheels help quite a bit too. Combined it retains all the positives of the RS suspension with the ability to be more comfortable than something like the Golf R.

[@fj06carnone]

4 years 50K miles on my Focus RS. Because it's my daily, I don't have something softer to compare it to and thus have grown completely used to it. (That and my 18" wheels).

[@rwassom73]

I daily my 18 and love it. The suspension doesn’t bother me at all, but I’ve heard the 18 has better dampers than the earlier cars, so that may be a factor.

[@VeNoMS4]

17 RS owner as well. I basically drive my wife's Chevy everyday except on Fridays. The roads here in Mass is just not fun to drive on. But when I do get to open up, the RS is such a thrill

[@garrettbarbosa3080]

Great job guys thanks as always you 2 are at the top of my KZbin list. And that means alot since I turned my tv off 5 years ago. You guys made doing that alot easier GOD BLESS

[@EverydayDriver]

Glad you enjoy what we do. Thank you for watching!

[@calebcarter5413]

Difference between the Veloster N (also has NGS) and the Kona/Elantra N is their turbos. Kona/Elantra have a Hybrid Turbo vs the standard turbo in the Veloster. The difference in the turbos make a massive difference. When you swap the Hybrid turbo into the Veloster, the Veloster is faster due to weight. I own the Veloster N and I love it. We have a giant "N" group of Elantra/Kona/Velosters and go to the tracks from time to time.

[@zombray1958]

2016 focus owner here got it brand new 7miles in 2017 have 45k miles and not a single issue. Love the car very much and has been great to me 🤘🏻

[@Skim_beeble7125]

Ah man you are literally in one of my favorite canyon runs I’m so jealous I moved out of Utah a few months ago and the only thing I miss are the canyon runs and back roads

[@malcolmh5736]

So nice to see Toyota make a hot hatch! and love your reviews. I've a 2018 Focus RS limited edition with improved suspension and kept everything all stock. I absolutely still love it. Key statement you make, "The GR has a bit more body roll than I'd care for" but then knocks the RS stiff suspicion but rave on handling/cornering. Hey guys, it's the stiff suspension that give the amazing handling/cornering. :). My 18 RS has 37k miles and has been 100% reliable thus far and still is all tight. The 18s didn't have the gasket issue, have a limited slip differential that prior years didn't have, and more. It's held its value a LOT better than critics predicted!! In other reviews of the GR Corolla, it has a pretty quiet exhaust it seems, which is a real bummer. I love that there's another hot hatch on the US market though!!! The US never seems to have enough or as much as other countries. Maybe the GR Corolla will be a solid choice when I'm back on the market...I'm a hot hatch guy! PS: I'm stoked to hear the reviewer here say that the RS he's in "feels new."

[@MotorsportCreative]

Every Focus RS is limited edition 😊

[@soverythirsty8272]

Stiff suspension does not equate to good handling. You can have a compliant ride without losing cornering capability. Rly no excuse for making it as stiff as it is especially with electronically controlled dampers.

[@LinusScrubTips]

I graduated from college this summer, and when I get a new job I’m so getting a GR corolla.

[@gbass7328]

fyi - the 2018 RS came with a front LSD and softer damping. A Cobb $100 shift plate @ 30% takes care of the RS shift throw. That '17 must have had the gasket recall done. It should have been made til at least 2020.

[@aquaagu2]

Love my 17 RS in frozen white. Never driven such a fantastic hatchback in my life.

[@element2dd]

I remembered when RS first came out in 2016 everyone was complaining about its high sitting position😂😂😂😂 now it is the best?

[@digital0785]

the Kona N also has the turbo from the elantra N.. which is larger then the veloster N .. housings and wheels are bigger not just overboost

[@LPDarkSoulsHD]

Thanks for advocating for us enthusiasts, Todd. Not that the dealers will listen to you, but I think it's great that you voiced your disapproval for their market behavior. It's an unfortunate time to be an enthusiast with these prices the way they are. Hopefully it gets better soon.

[@bryanstortenbecker2724]

We used to have crossovers back in the 80's when I was growing up too. We just called them station wagons!!

[@Hugh.G.Rection.]

I’m assuming the i30N isn’t sold in North America, because it’s everything you were describing you wished the Kona was.

[@carloscervantes836]

Kona N owner here. i30N not sold in US, else I would own it instead.

[@EverydayDriver]

We love the i30N. We’ve driven it in Europe and wish it was sold in the Us.

[@ZillaFullBoost]

I just pushed a Focus RS to its limits in the mountain. What a great car Ford built. Ironically I just posted the vid on my channel a couple hours ago if you’d like to watch it some time 🫡

[@BlueSkyCrystals]

Great video. I love my 2016 RS and I completely agree with your feelings on the car. I still thought about going for a GR Corolla but I don’t want to pay the dealer markups, and really I think for an RS owner there is no point to switch unless they own a high mileage RS. Mine is at 40k miles so no reason to move on from it yet, but I love that hot hatches are still being made and I can’t wait to see them in the flesh.

[@eliaswreford4523]

As far as ride goes would it be an option to go with a softer spring set up? I’m looking at them right now thinking about buying but I’m an old man (40) and live in Michigan. Just wondering if there is a way to make it ride a little smoother.

[@BlueSkyCrystals]

@@eliaswreford4523 Late-2017 and all 2018 cars received the revised dampers that softened the ride and improved handling. Look up the part numbers for the revision 1 front dampers and revision 2 rear dampers. That would likely be enough, but you could also swap out the 19 inch wheels for 18s and tires with more sidewall. I went with 18x8.5 wheels with ET40 offset, and 245/40/18 tires. Really took the edge off the bumps and I do not even have the revised dampers yet.

[@eliaswreford4523]

That helps so much. Thank you. Truly thank you for the input.

[@kimcloud8995]

Sounds like Focus RS is more like the Morizo edition in terms of driving charactersitic and stiffness.

[@djbis]

In a world where electrification is all the rage and some manufacturers are ready to ditch ICE all together, Toyota is giving us that last, sweet kiss goodbye to not only combustion engine fun, but also, stick shift driving. I cannot believe they dared create a model that is not offered as an Automatic! That is a tremendously bold move (and probably the reason why we won't see many of them too). It makes me feel extremely happy, but also, kind of sad. Thank you for a great review and Toyota for not forgetting about their driving enthusiasts. 👊🏼

[@aroundomaha]

I love this comparison. The Focus Rs is still competitive in SCCA solo II. Ford did a great job with it but the Corolla hits more of a sweet spot for me. Too bad Hyundai didn’t lower the Kona N.

[@phattyhales]

This owner autocrosses their RS regularly!

[@aroundomaha]

@@phattyhales I get my butt kicked once a month by an RS driver in Lincoln.

[@andrewm5840]

I have been waiting for an episode like this!!

[@shekharmoona544]

He said "attainable." 😂😂😂

[@johnteahan2333]

Relative to Porsche, Ferrari they are extremely attainable. We have the Yaris not the Corolla here and it’s still really expensive, but if you really really want one, it’s attainable

[@KennyHaan]

lmao especially when they're charging 5-10k above msrp for a hyundai.

[@Ljbuddy12]

The problem with the GR Corolla is Toyota is only making 6600 for model year 2023, and out of the 6600 only 1500 will be circuit edition which means it will be nearly impossible to buy one and mark up by stealerships will be insane.

[@b.b3642]

The best everyday driver car here. With no doubts the Kona N. Full of drive assistant aids, comfortable driver position with excellent view over the traffic, ventilated front seats ( Europe only), comfort ride overall and a beast on request, 8 speed DSG against manual gearshifting.....hello. 🙂 It is another category auto actually and way better daly driver car then the Toyota.

[@nthgth]

You are describing the perfect non-enthusiast car. The Consumer Reports comparison test winner. For us enthusiasts, looking for driving to be fun, those things either don't matter or are actually detrimental (except "beast on request").

[@b.b3642]

@@nthgth I have to disagree with you.First of all the title of the video is : the best daily driver car isn't it. I do drive every day 60km back and forth to work and I know to appreciate the extras as a nice driving position, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, driving aids etc. And having on your disposal an adrenaline loaded machine with 280ps with precise steering behavior compared to the BMW M division......well. How about that enthusiast boy. 😊

[@shadowsandfire]

SUVs are not what we want to buy they are all you can buy, its hard to find a normal sedan these days

[@nthgth]

They're basically forcing us to buy more "car" than we would've chosen to buy, if smaller choices were available. The more stuff they can sell you - including building materials for the car - the more money they make. That's why they push big trucks so hard. (And electronic "features")

[@saviordream]

Surprised to see this video release, but very happy as well. Of these three cars, I think I might be partial to the Focus RS, and I usually don't care for Fords in general. However, I think it not only has the best performance, but I also like the looks the best. It is a shame that, with the exception of the Mustang, Ford has abandoned it's fun/sports cars for every market segment like they used to have.

[@calebnation6155]

I mean there’s an ST for the eco sport or whatever (focus sized crossover), edge, and explorer. They just don’t have cars it’s all crossovers.

[@saviordream]

@@calebnation6155 That's what I mean. If you want a fun/sporty car that's not a Mustang, you're out of luck at Ford. All they have now are trucks and SUVs/CUVs.

[@artsolano6762]

So sad that Ford stopped production of all cars other than the Mustang. The GR Corolla looks amazing. I wonder if that car is more or less fun than the GR 86

[@chronicnugget5595]

Surprised to hear Todd say he thought the RS felt on the floorboards considering too high a driving position was one of the universal complaints

[@kimcloud8995]

Ford may have secretly lowered the seat rails for the later cars after initial complaints.

[@chronicnugget5595]

@@kimcloud8995 I have a 2017 and can confirm they didn't sadly. One of the few times I'm happy for being a bit on the short side

[@ThomMurphy]

@@chronicnugget5595 they lowered it 15mm on some later cars.

[@jjchockey]

I’ll take the Focus RS with some proper coilovers. Stock the suspension is terrible.

[@27dmon1]

I miss my 1988 Mazda 323GTX. That was like 160hp, but man was it fun.

[@padredave53]

Reminds me of my Mazdaspeed 3…..shame it is not built anymore either.

[@berrykrijnen4362]

They will come back ,you will see

[@nthgth]

@@berrykrijnen4362 I hope you're right

[@ramboexcess4469]

Great review men, noticed it was on a race track so disappointed you didn't compare times

[@phattyhales]

This was a road review. We did get some track time at the launch of the GR but that was it. The other two were not on track at all.

[@ThomMurphy]

@@phattyhales well, now you have an idea for a follow up video...

[@element2dd]

And my M2C has a harder ride than my 2016 RS (Ford improved the ride quality since 17)

[@IcanDriveIt]

Man these roads are gorgeous. I’d love to drive out there

[@GoneSovereign]

Coming from the MK6 GTI, I freaking LOVE my Kona N.

[@interceptingfist5682]

apparently, you love automatics

[@GoneSovereign]

@@interceptingfist5682 Apparently, my commute has alot of traffic, better living through technology.

[@therifkamil]

And I was hoping somebody would being my ride.. The Kona N. Thank you for this

[@TheSpenbrom]

Kind of surprised that you did the Kona-N and not the Elantra-N.

[@themrmarkprior]

I'd happily trade in my GR Supra for a GR Corolla, but i'm in the UK and i cant have one. I've had a GR Yaris and it is a hoot drive, truly great, but day-to-day not special enough feeling when not absolutely 100% ringing its neck. It's a bit of a sad car to sit in. I feel the GR Corolla fits nicely in the middle, and then we also have the GR86, my god, Toyota really have refound their Halo years. It's almost an honour to have them again.

[@dammyo6010]

Great video you guys

[@jerm_]

if the GR corolla had a slightly longer wheelbase it would look better imo but other than that it looks great

[@cholomondeleybiscuitt]

You are so right naming it 'N-Grin Shift' was naff - I prefer to call my KonaN's big red button as 'Now Going Supersonic' ...

[@ccc3350]

I love my Kona N. What a great car for the money. Makes me happy every time I drive it. Went to look at Elantra N and liked Kona N better.

[@buildmorefarms1007]

The Elantra is more hard core, better handling, more performance focused. Kona N sits higher and is easier to get in to.

[@ccc3350]

@@buildmorefarms1007 You are right. However I am a big boy and the Elantra N seats were to tight for me. I believe the Kona N is better looking because I did not like the Elantra N nose as much. But that’s my opinion. I do enjoy performance and have a stable of cars which will out preform even the Elantra N. But the Kona N has become my daily driver.

[@jmmch3358]

Of Hyundai N products. The Kona N is the better looking choice.

[@apexcobra.official]

I looked at both the Kona N and Elantra N. While sure the Elantra is the better handling of the two, the car didn't interest me at all. I can strap a kayak to the top of the Kona off the dealer lot, fit an air mattress in back, and still have all the fun I want!

[@buildmorefarms1007]

@@ccc3350 I agree the nose on the Elantra N needs help. Glad you are enjoying the Kona N, Im looking at them also.

[@freestyleskyline]

Dealerships overpricing the focus RS by like 10-20k is what definitely killed it

[@kevinreilly6774]

Gr should of used the same twch with one more cylinder making 400hp. Would have been even more amazing

[@michaelrud4351]

I've always wanted a veloster n, but they're always 5-8k out of my budget

[@calvinspires1220]

SERIOUSLY considering trading my FRS in on a Circuit edition to compliment my NB. If I can find one, of course.

[@lanemorrow7417]

OMG, why would you do that??

[@mikea5205]

Good luck.

[@dammyo6010]

Good move. NB and FRS are too similar in mission.

[@calvinspires1220]

@@lanemorrow7417 I need something different in the stable. I used to be big on Nissan, and currently have a 280zx, 240sx, nb miata and FRS. All have roughly the same formula. I've never had an AWD vehicle, a turbo vehicle, or a 3 cylinder vehicle.

[@TML34]

Get an Elantra N for daily use. Mod the shit out of your Miata.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

All these kids toys playing with each other while the Golf R shows them all how taillights look…

[@Ro-StreetTriple]

Just watched this, and seems like you guys like the handling of the RS. Seven years ago when the RS came out, you pitted it against the Evo, in which you guys preferred the Evo. So does that mean the Evo is still far more superior than any of today's affordable sports cars?

[@Laxen1711]

You maybe did not get the GR Yaris, but with the Corolla, you legit got the better car xD. Its a shame that the GR Corolla isnt on the European Market, I want one of those so baaaad

[@Cernunn0s90]

Come to europe and do a comparison with the GR Yaris please! Would love to see someone compare the two.

[@edgarmunoz9991]

I recognize this road. It's in Summit County Utah. Near Kamas

[@scottipippen6554]

Great video as always! But please stop using music during some driving scenes. I am here for pure car sound, not music;-) Greets from Munich!

[@EverydayDriver]

Glad you enjoyed and took the time to comment. This 20 minute video is 75-80% pure car sounds only and no music. Thanks for watching.

[@nthgth]

3 super fun cars, I hope they sell well. I'd love to see these on the road. I'm very interested in the GRC, Toyota used to nail it with sports cars, excited to see if they've still got it. Awesome engine note too, in a sea of boring old 4cyl droners.

[@nthgth]

Other than the discontinued RS of course (unfortunately)

[@ShenmueAtheist]

I'm glad I was able to secure a deposit on a Corolla GR Circuit Edition at MSRP. The only problem is I was told by the Toyota dealership that I will likely be getting a 2024 or even 2025 model since they only anticipate getting 4 or 5 GR Corollas a year, and all but maybe 1 will be the Core. I'm fourth in line for the Circuit. At least I have time to save more money for a larger down payment.

[@hourglasseyesflipping]

"It's so obtainable." Dealerships: "yeah we want an extra 20,000 for one."

[@EverydayDriver]

While we hate all dealer mark-ups, we’ve also started hearing many people getting these for MSRP. Thanks for watching!

[@hourglasseyesflipping]

@@EverydayDriver ooooo that would be excellent then. I'd love to pick one up at MSRP

[@billshoe22191]

Why is the Kona N here? Its a cuv, fwd, auto only, and hideous. Burn it with fire. WRX STI would have made this way more interesting

[@TheModdder]

Thank god I live in Canada and will just pay MSRP, I hope I'm selected for the Morizo Lottery

[@driverjamescopeland]

I just wish North America didn't get watered-down versions of literally everything 🤦‍♂️🙇‍♂️

[@93455Driver]

Wish you had got the Elantra N manual, would have been a fairer comparison.

[@EverydayDriver]

We wish the Elantra N was a hatchback... or Hyundai could bring the excellent i30N to the states and have another great hatchback offering. We're excited to put the Elantra N into a film, but this - as stated - is a hot hatchback discussion. Thanks for watching!

[@93455Driver]

@@EverydayDriver Wish we could have the I20N and the current Ford Fiesta ST as well, but the US addicted to SUVs :(

[@kashsres1064]

Why did Ford stop making Focus RS when almost every car enthusiast wanted one?🤯 Doesn’t make sense.

[@loganbalcom5833]

When someone cuts and replaces the suspension of the Kona with something with a little more squat, then it’ll be Nice

[@jasonfraser808]

although discontinued should be the veloster N not the Kona, as it performs better

[@yiannis9777]

Should I sell my Toyota Yaris 2022 1.5 petrol(125hp) for a 2017 -8 Focus RS? VERY tempted to!

[@danfriesen4417]

I remember reading an article about 20 yrs ago asking when Americans love affair with SUVs would end. Apparently...the answer is never. I hate driving anymore because all there is to look at on the road is SUVs and I throw up in my mouth a little so often everyday it's appalling. I like cars

[@kirk9899]

Paul, how is that car attainable? I’ll tell you what, you get me in touch with a dealer who still has one and I’ll trade in my Elantra N for that car immediately. I would like to see VW send the Tiguan R to the States.

[@EverydayDriver]

It's all relative... compared to most performance cars, something priced around $40k is affordable. Most "aspirational" cars are poster cars costing 6 figures or more. The GR is a car people are excited about and it has an affordable price tag. Of course... dealer markup and limited numbers could be argued as making it un-attainable, and we understand that as well. Thanks for watching.

[@craigyBow]

Great video. Enjoyed with a coffee.

[@zahnyto709]

RS has 350hp and not 350nm but 470nm It sure makes all the difference comparing it stock wise

[@lovejoy1738]

I want that car so bad too..... Toyota reliability with AWD 300HP and a useful Hatchback with factory Wide Body???? YES!!!!!!!! YES!!!!!!! YES!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will buy one used with 80 thousand miles and it will be just getting broken in...

[@carlosmolina568]

A 17 focus RS owner here. Everything is stock, 92k miles and daily driven. I can’t complain it has never given me issues! I love my focus and I’m going to keep it forever. Crazy how the car market is right now. I remember I got mines for 38k brand new. I work at Toyota in southern Cali and they’re marking up the gr Corolla at least 10k.

[@isaacbojorquez38]

you are lucky. ive worked on many with failed engines lol

[@deepakkv303]

Same, have a '17 I bought used at 33k miles (72k currently) and it's been the most reliable car I've owned including a ae101 Corolla. Hoping to keep the RS and buy a GRC.

[@imtheonehero9305]

You're an outlier

[@imtheonehero9305]

@@deepakkv303 you're also an outlier

[@Bbc418]

Stock is boring, you need to modify it, it’s made for it!!

[@franciscodanconia4324]

Nice to see Toyota getting back into performance. I have missed the days of MR2, Supra, and Celica GTS in the 90s

[@SilverScarletSpider]

It’s just amazing to see Subaru Impreza WRX STi’s, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s, Honda Civic Type R’s, Toyota GR Corolla’s, Hyundai Elantra N’s, Mazda 3 Turbo AWD’s, and Ford Focus RS’s on the road. Great cars for families that want to bring kids everywhere and for daily drives to work.

[@Konformation07]

The Mazda 3 Turbo AWD is a let down for real. No manual gearbox and it was dulled to not be as visceral and to be as soft as marshmallows.

[@nickwong2525]

@@Konformation07 Cause it is not a performance car like those listed above.

[@Konformation07]

@@nickwong2525 Well no shit lol. Mazda has been very open that Mazdaspeed is dead and they are pushing away those Mazda buyers from the past. It's still a let down. It's just boring.

[@bpearr8266]

@@Konformation07 Mazda may be boring these days, but their platforms/ powertrains still have potential to make good power. Plus Mazda has the best quality, and NVH out of all the Asian brands by far.

[@lucienpetrus9432]

mvmv amavvavvvvvbvmbvvmnsavvabvnvnvbnvmvmmbsmnvmvavvmbvvbvvvvsbav

[@richardmahoney9415]

So cool too see a Focus RS with over a 100K on the odometer shows the durability of the car

[@sgtmorhew]

I aim to reach 100k on my RS. Just hit 40k

[@zachmiller2245]

Lol they are not all that reliable… maybe the later 2017s and up but the 2016s are not.. trust me

[@sgtmorhew]

@@zachmiller2245 not all the 16s are cursed like people tend to believe.

[@Madtigertv]

@@sgtmorhew not all but a LOT.

[@sgtmorhew]

@@Madtigertv understandly they got a bad rep but I'm genuinely happy with mine. AWD FTW!

[@jbones5270]

I have a Kona N as a daily and a stage 2 modded M4. The Kona is a ton of fun to drive to work and run my kids around. I wanted an RS, but they are all marked up for an older car and ur Civic Type R is still way marked up. My only debate is if I should have got the veloster N instead, but this car is super convenient and I tend to smile frequently in it.

[@Midgett_]

i daily a veloster N. if you got the kona as your only option to drive the kids around, it's the better choice 100%. the veloster N is an amazing performance car, but extremely rough ride for passengers. if you ever have the chance to get a manual veloster N down the road and you don't need it for kiddos, I highly suggest it.

[@atmark666]

public announcement for hyundai KIA genesis owner. Jan. 31, 2023-Two of America's largest insurance providers, Progressive and State Farm, refuse to cover older Hyundai and Kia models. According to reports, the insurers say that some models of these two auto brands are too easy to steal in certain cities.9

[@Titantitan001]

Love my 1.6T, looks so sharp.

[@ChuckNorrisxxxking]

had a vn 2019 and sold it for a 2022 kona N and its just the same fun but in a more convenient format, with a little more body roll. would not go back for any reasons whatsoever

[@effortlessproductions]

To be honest I think the Elantra N has been their best move by far, improves the shortcomings of both vehicles.

[@shad3128]

I feel like the focus RS still punches extremely hard in and above its weight class

[@buildmorefarms1007]

It is so heavy though

[@doriangray2347]

And it’s built like crap

[@jmmch3358]

Shifter is on the wrong place and have a very stiff ride. But yes is very competent even on today's market.

[@shad3128]

@@jmmch3358 i will admit I do hate the shifter and seat position when driving it. It takes away from the car a lot

[@shad3128]

@@doriangray2347 i wish they held up better. Would have gotten a grey or blue one for sure they look killer. Didnt feel like bleeding money out on one after 40 or 50k miles when it falls apart tho

[@rjkStudios]

Fantastic video, gentlemen! 😎👍 That GR Corolla continues to impress. Still can't get over how it's pumping out all that power from only 3 cylinders. 🤯

[@boygonewhoopdataZZ]

F1s are doing 1,000HP on 4 cylinders.

[@fromfareastindy8234]

@@boygonewhoopdataZZ Can that be used for more than 100,000 miles? lol

[@mkefayati473]

@@fromfareastindy8234 you got a very solid point there.

[@momlover75]

I have a kona N... And holy crap that is a fun car and yes, it's a tall hatchback. lol

[@CaliforniaKonaN]

Same! Great value for what you get, been lovin' it so far!

[@ronbleazard]

I have 1000 miles on mine in one week and it is perfect for me. I love the way it’s tears and grips the road. The grin button is super fun coming out of corners.

[@ronbleazard]

Steers

[@Subversion121]

My favourite two hot hatches here in Australia are the Hyundai i30N and the Toyota GR Yaris, however I don’t think America gets them unfortunately. They’re smaller, more nimble and fun versions of the Kona N and the GR Corolla.

[@phattyhales]

The i30 N is basically the same thing as the Veloster N. Those things were awesome and I think Hyundai was foolish for killing it off. For me personally, I saw a number of GR Yari in Germany on our Pilgrimage trip. I think they are great cars but without driving one but did drive this Corolla, I would absolutely go for the Corolla. I just like the size better. Again, that's my preference.

[@tanner1ie]

@@phattyhales Actually I think you get the i30N as the Elantra N - both are available as fastback saloons and regular hatchbacks, while the Veloster is more "bubbly", while the normal Veloster has that strange asymmetric door thing going on 🤔😯😀🤘 The Elantra N does have a slightly more aggressive bodykit, than the i30N, but I think they're the same car otherwise 😀

[@phattyhales]

@@tanner1ie we absolutely don’t get the i30 in the US. Wish we did though!

[@tanner1ie]

@@phattyhales Are you sure as said, the Elantra N looks like the i30N Fastback with a more aggressive bodykit... While the Veloster N that they showed for a second looked more like the i30N hatchback than the normal Veloster 🤔😯😀🤘...

[@tanner1ie]

Indeed, like I thought while clearly the Elantra gets a more aggressive bodykit, according to Wikipedia, it's the same car as the i30 😀🤘 ... en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyundai_i30

[@chibiskyrc]

I love my Kona N but I'm not sure why the Veloster N wasn't used for the comparison. It's being discontinued but you can still buy a '22 VN whereas the RS has been gone for longer. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the video! :) Fun fact: the Kona N is actually slightly taller than the regular Kona bc of its bigger 19 in wheels. I really think they should've sold it on lowering springs and a manual option 🤷‍♀️

[@phattyhales]

It’s explained at the beginning of the review why the Kona was used.

[@chibiskyrc]

@@phattyhales I mean they just say they used the Kona bc the Veloster is discontinued and being replaced with the Kona. By that rule shouldnt the Edge ST be used instead of the Focus? Edge/Explorer ST replaced the FiST and Focus ST/RS

[@robertdebarge276]

@@chibiskyrc you should make that video

[@phattyhales]

@@chibiskyrc The idea was to show you where the market came from and where it is headed. Car makers are slowly transitioning to making hot CUVs in favor of hot hatches because that's what the general population is buying, much to our chagrin...

[@itsnotagsr]

Given the i30N is sold in many markets I wonder if that would have made the choice harder, especially with a A$10k price difference

[@KillJoy3912]

Great comparison. I've been waiting for video like this. The Circuit Edition is awesome. I still daily drive my RS. I'm up to 62k miles. No major problems to this day even after all my mods. I'm impressed you were able to find an unmolested RS for this video.

[@olightening]

Seeing the Ken Block hoonigan RS hits different after his passing

[@WbrookS-jm2bj]

Just rolled over 80k on my RS. It's been super reliable. Got a new cat under warranty at 70k and that's it. Sure can build American cars in Germany...

[@WebbRacingdotcom]

Thank you to Ford, Hyundai and Toyota for producing these cars, even if not all of them are still available new. I've had such wonderful experiences in rally cars and rally-replica cars over the years, including the Ur Quattro, Celica GT-4, 323 GTX, Galant VR-4, Impulse RS and Evo VIII RS. It just might be time for another one.

[@TFritz82]

Yeah, I'd have to agree some of the best road going cars, bar none, were either Gr A rally homologation or homologation-inspired cars!

[@CaliforniaKonaN]

Been lovin' my Kona N, NGrinShift and all! But love that we have these type of cars still before the EV takeover T_T

[@Gurka84]

Why buy this abomination instead of an actual sports car? You don’t have to goo too far for a very expensive Corolla GR. I would even take the Elantra N over it everyday.

[@Boujizz]

@@Gurka84 I like my KonaN because it's not full blown. I wanted rear seat cup holders, I wanted a 60/40 split seat, I didn't want those harder N sport seats, I like my comfort N sport seats, I like my power seats. I hummed and hawed between the Elantra and Kona but I go the Kona as the winters get a little crazy so when I saw it has "gimmicky" snow settings, it made it a no brainer. My buddys Elantra N gets scraped everywhere and my Kona is completely fine. Also, lowered it by 1.2 inches and it's beautiful, still more room to clear than the Elantra.

[@1300l]

@@Boujizz I agree, ppl feel a CUV or a SUV is useless since it's "not good for track" but no one really uses it on Track for real. In real life, the Kona rocks, it has space, ground clearance yet still walk the walk with the Corola

[@Boujizz]

@@1300l Also saved close to $15k Canadian which I'm going stage 2, N75.

[@CaliforniaKonaN]

@@Boujizz nice future power mods! Which ecu tune are going with? Can’t wait to see!

[@Buck3366]

Why on earth did they never release the I30N hatch in the US? It addresses all the issues with the Kona in the video.

[@BWTECH0521]

Probably because the elantra GT hatch never sold well. I wish they gave us the i30N!!!

[@shitdie-w7o]

My last car was a 20 elantra GT n line and im still mad about not having the N option. I love my Kona N because the I30N is what i wanted in 2020 and Kona N does it for me.

[@Cobb]

I'm still disappointed they marketed with a $30k price point and it starts at $36k, by the time you add tax, title, dealer fees and mark up its going to be over $40k for the base trim.

[@ronbleazard]

I got my Kona N last week for under 40 K out the door

[@nthgth]

@@ronbleazard not the same thing, it's an automatic SUV so it's a lot more mainstream right away. Markups tend to happen to cars that are decidedly not mainstream

[@cayman9873]

Kona does not fit most americans... and the corolla has a huge dealer money grab if you can even get a circuit... in milwaukee the dealers are adding about 6500 dollars of fake fees .

[@joshuarobinson7522]

Awesome Vid!!! Love the content as always guys!!!! Both the Kona N and the GR Corolla have been on my radar. Thank-you!!!!

[@ronbleazard]

I love my Kona N, the way it Steers is amazing, and it is super fun!

[@ashliliedahl2413]

I'm halfway thru the video, and so far I'm loving these guys and their presentation, but FOR THE LOVE OF THE GODS "RPM" IS NOT PLURAL!!! I know, it's a tiny, stupid detail, but "RPM's" bothers me so effin' much! It's stupid. It makes one sound stupid. Okay, back to the video and loving everything else! (And also subbed!!)

[@poker_18rs92]

I have a 2018 RS….. it’s bright & draws a lot of attention because most people don’t know what it is….. it’s a great car, for the right person.

[@kadelansford8827]

Great initial comparison, very excited to see what you guys think of the Elantra N and how it compares to the gr in the realm of sporty “affordable” daily’s

[@unexplainedwearenotalone3537]

U think gr can beat n performance never and never happened Kona n is full flat best stability sound best and still Kona n beast.

[@jordancleal6380]

@@unexplainedwearenotalone3537 I’m a Toyota die hard , but I have a Kona N . Hands down best vehicle I’ve owned , the driving experience is unreal . There downplaying the kona because of it’s fwd and shit , but it’s E LSD is amazing .

[@BensCoffeeRants]

I think Elantra N is a bit more sport oriented than the Kona N from what I've heard. Test drove the Kona N though and it does seem like a larger sporty hatch back. Similar to how I remember the Veloster N when I tested that a year ago.

[@jordancleal6380]

@@BensCoffeeRants and the best thing is Hyundai has been lying about the hp numbers. People have dynod the N models and there putting down the 286 hp Hyundai claims as crank hp but there actually putting it down as wheel horsepower which means the crank hp is well over 300 . People also forget in a RWD or AWD system you will lose far more HP to drive train loss than you will in a FWD vehicle . The kona is a spectacular vehicle for pushing 280 whp and fwd

[@stevethomas760]

@@jordancleal6380 How is the ride on the softest setting? I really wanted the Kona N to be the car but when I test drove it the ride was incredibly jittery/stiff. That said I don't know what the suspension setting was on. For reference I own a WRX & first gen NSX

[@dannybishop68]

Focus rs is a beast. Wish Ford kept it . Shocked the gr Corolla was first place given the focus was faster to 60 .

[@kashsres1064]

Props to you guys and the team for comparing GR Corolla to the modern day hot hatch/ rally benchmark Focus RS.👍🏼

[@spade118]

Looking forward to the Type-R vs the GR Corolla Reviews. Really interested to see if the AWD or FWD hurts or helps the cars performance or if the chassis is more important than drivetrain.

[@justryan5697]

I'm excited for the new type r as well

[@supraJZA80s]

Chassis is more important than drivetrain.

[@quinn4477]

Honda type R yeah stupid car FWD and can't drifting oh shit men

[@spade118]

@@supraJZA80s you would think so but people tend to think about snow/rain traction/capability as well. Type-R was faster on track than all it's rivals but on anything but dry conditions the Type-R struggled to put power down. People tend to way that sometimes more

[@justryan5697]

@@quinn4477 you couldn't drift it if it was RWD my guy