For owners of the 2018 Ford Focus RS looking to maintain peak performance and safety during the colder months, the winter tire package is an essential consideration. This factory-offered package ensures that your high-performance hatchback remains capable even when winter roads present challenges. Let’s delve into the specifications and benefits of this specialized setup designed specifically for the 2018 Ford Focus RS.
The core of the winter tire package revolves around a set of 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels. These wheels are specifically painted silver, a practical choice to better withstand and conceal the grime and salt commonly encountered on winter roads. While they offer a distinct aesthetic from the standard 19-inch black wheels that are a hallmark of the Focus RS, the design maintains a visual connection. Notably, these winter wheels also incorporate the RS logo on the wheel lip, a subtle nod to the car’s performance pedigree even in its winter configuration.
These 18-inch wheels are paired with Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires, sized at 225/40R18. These are not just any winter tires; the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4s are engineered for high-performance vehicles. They feature an aggressive tread pattern meticulously designed to deliver exceptional grip on snow-covered surfaces. Crucially, despite their winter prowess, these tires are engineered to minimize noise on highways, avoiding the disruptive drone often associated with more rugged, off-road oriented winter tires. This balance of snow traction and on-road refinement makes them ideal for the Focus RS owner who demands performance year-round.
Like the original equipment wheels, the winter tire package is designed for seamless integration. Each wheel comes complete with tire pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS) and Ford center caps. This means the winter set is a direct bolt-on replacement for the standard 19-inch wheels. They arrive pre-mounted and balanced, further simplifying the installation process. While dealership installation is readily available, the straightforward design allows for convenient at-home mounting in your garage, saving time and potentially costs.
The 2018 Ford Focus RS winter tire package was priced at $1,995. Breaking down the cost, the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires individually cost approximately $225.35, bringing the tire set to around $900-$1000. This pricing suggests that a reasonable portion of the package cost accounts for the alloy wheels, TPMS sensors, and the convenience of a wheel set specifically designed for the Focus RS. For owners in Canada, it’s worth noting that the winter tire package was standard equipment. However, it remained unclear if opting for the standard 19-inch black wheels, typically equipped on US-spec models, was an available option in Canada.
In conclusion, the winter tire package for the 2018 Ford Focus RS is a well-engineered and convenient solution for drivers in colder climates. It provides the necessary grip and safety for winter driving without compromising the performance character of the Focus RS. The package’s thoughtful design, utilizing quality Michelin tires and vehicle-specific wheels, makes it a worthwhile investment for maintaining optimal driving experience throughout the year.
