Meet the Enthusiast: Kyler Marson

Meet Kyler Marson: A Passionate Ford Enthusiast with a High-Performance Focus RS

Kyler Marson, hailing from the Pacific Northwest, has been a dedicated Ford aficionado from the very beginning. With 15 years of experience as an Auto Technician, including six years at a Ford dealership, his passion for the brand runs deep. Currently, as a Class A CDL driver, Kyler’s profession enables him to indulge in his automotive hobbies, allowing him to explore and enhance his vehicles.​

The 2017 Ford Focus RS: A High-Octane Journey

Kyler’s vehicle of choice is a 2017 Ford Focus RS, a model renowned for its performance and agility. Under the hood, the Focus RS boasts a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering an impressive 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds, with a top speed of 165 mph.

Personalizing Performance: Kyler’s Modifications

Kyler has taken the robust foundation of the Focus RS and elevated it with a series of thoughtful modifications aimed at enhancing performance:​

• Engine & Performance Upgrades:
  • ETS intercooler and charge pipes​
  • Turbosmart Wastegate actuator​
  • Turbosmart BOV​
  • Cobb 40% short adapter
  • Cobb rear motor mount​
  • Borla Type S cat-back exhaust​
  • Tune from Adam at TunePlus​

These enhancements have propelled the car’s performance to 376 wheel horsepower (WHP) and 421 wheel torque (WTQ), showcasing a significant boost from the stock specifications. Kyler notes that all bolt-on upgrades support a full 92 octane tune, contributing to these impressive figures.​

• Suspension & Handling Upgrades:
  • Lowering springs (installed by the previous owner)​

While the suspension remains largely stock, the lowering springs have improved the vehicle’s stance and handling characteristics.​

• Brakes & Wheels Upgrades:
  • Currently stock​

Despite the stock setup, the Focus RS’s braking system is well-regarded for its responsiveness and reliability.​

Integrating Passion into Daily Life

For Kyler, his Focus RS serves as more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a daily driver that brings joy and excitement to his routine. He relishes the positive reactions from fellow motorists, sharing that “the thumbs up from just random people on the road” brings a smile to his face. While not currently affiliated with any car clubs or online communities, Kyler’s enthusiasm for his vehicle and the broader automotive culture is evident.​

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

Kyler’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. He mentions that, aside from health issues concerning his wife and dogs, they have recently turned a corner, allowing him to reengage with his passion for cars. One practical challenge he faced was not having a proper covered area to work on his car, a situation he humorously addressed with a “10×10 canopy FTW.”​

Looking to the future, Kyler plans to further enhance his Focus RS with suspension and wheel upgrades. Additionally, he harbors a long-term dream of building a 1970 F250 Highboy, reflecting his enduring commitment to Ford vehicles and automotive customization.​

Advice for Fellow Enthusiasts

Kyler’s counsel to other Ford owners looking to embark on their own build journeys is succinct and sage: “Have patience.” He also emphasizes the importance of diligence, advising the community to “take your time and do it right the first time. No rush.”​

Connect with Kyler

For those interested in following Kyler’s automotive adventures, he can be found on Instagram under the handle @PNW_STEALTH_RS, where he shares updates and insights into his ongoing projects.​

Conclusion

Kyler Marson exemplifies the spirit of the Ford enthusiast community, blending technical expertise with a genuine passion for performance and customization. His journey with the 2017 Focus RS serves as an inspiration to others, highlighting the rewards of dedication, thoughtful modification, and the joy of driving a truly personalized vehicle.​

Please note: All vehicle modifications and performance enhancements should be conducted in accordance with local laws and regulations. Always prioritize safety and consult with professionals when undertaking significant vehicle alterations.