2018 Ford Focus

2018 Ford Focus Highlights

The 2018 Ford Focus marks the final year of this popular compact car in the U.S. market, concluding its third generation with a diverse lineup that caters to a wide range of drivers. As a swan song for the Focus in America, this model year continues to offer sedan and hatchback configurations, the performance-oriented ST and RS variants, and the 2018 Ford Focus Electric. The Focus maintains its reputation for nimble handling, fuel efficiency, and various available advanced technologies, making it an appealing choice in the competitive compact car segment.

Key Details

• Compact sedan or hatchback (five-door) body styles
• Five-passenger seating
• Multiple engine options: 1.0L turbocharged three-cylinder, 2.0L four-cylinder, 2.0L turbocharged (ST), 2.3L turbocharged (RS), and all-electric powertrain
• Manual or automatic transmission options, depending on the trim
• Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available on RS model

Benefits

• Diverse lineup catering to various driving preferences
• Engaging driving dynamics, especially in ST and RS models
• Available advanced safety and technology features
• Fuel-efficient engine options, including all-electric variant
• Practical hatchback option
• Compact dimensions ideal for urban environments

Learn More: 2018 Ford Focus transmission problems: The most common reliability issues reported by owners

2018 Ford Focus Overview

Performance

The 2018 Ford Focus offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving and offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

A 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine is available for those seeking improved fuel economy. This engine generates 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. Despite its small size, this engine delivers peppy performance and notable fuel economy.

Performance enthusiasts have two engaging options. The Focus ST features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. At the top of the range, the Focus RS boasts a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with all-wheel drive for maximum performance.

For eco-conscious drivers, the Focus Electric offers an all-electric powertrain with 143 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing instant acceleration and zero emissions.

Transmission options vary by trim, with a six-speed manual available on most models and a six-speed automatic or Ford's PowerShift dual-clutch automatic offered on select trims.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Focus a top five-star overall safety rating for the sedan and hatchback models.

Standard safety features across all 2018 Focus models include:

• Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag
• Electronic stability control
• Anti-lock brakes
• Rearview camera

The Focus also offers several advanced driver assistance technologies, with availability varying by trim level:

• Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
• Lane-keeping system
• Active park assist
• Rear parking sensors

Driving

Behind the wheel, the 2018 Ford Focus stands out in the compact car segment. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing for confident maneuvering in urban environments and enjoyable handling on winding roads. The Focus' compact dimensions make parking and navigating through tight city streets easy.

Ride quality is generally good across the Focus lineup. The suspension does a reasonable job of absorbing road imperfections while maintaining good body control through corners. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, contributing to a relatively quiet cabin environment for a compact car.

The ST and RS models elevate the driving experience to new levels. The ST offers sharp handling and strong acceleration, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. The RS takes performance even further, with its powerful engine, all-wheel drive system, and advanced suspension providing an exhilarating driving experience that rivals many sports cars.

The Focus Electric offers a unique driving experience. Its instant torque delivery provides quick acceleration from a stop. Its near-silent operation and smooth power delivery make it well-suited for urban commuting.

Interior

Functionality and comfort best define the 2018 Ford Focus interior. The cabin features a modern design with materials generally of good quality, especially in higher trims. The front seats offer good support and a range of adjustability, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Rear seat space is adequate for the compact class, though taller passengers may find legroom tight. Compared to the sedan, the hatchback body style provides increased headroom for rear passengers.

Cargo space varies by body style. The sedan offers 13.2 cubic feet of trunk space, while the hatchback provides a more versatile 23.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 43.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

2018 Ford Focus's available interior features, varying by trim, include:

• Leather-trimmed seating surfaces (Titanium and above)
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Power Moonroof

Technology

The 2018 Ford Focus has a range of technology-oriented features, including:

• 4.2-inch infotainment display or 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims
• SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Navigation system
• Sony premium audio system

The Focus Electric model includes additional tech features specific to its all-electric powertrain, such as a unique instrument cluster display and a mobile app for monitoring charging status and scheduling charging times.

Fuel Economy

The EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2018 Ford Focus vary significantly depending on the powertrain. Here are the EPA estimates:

2.0-liter four-cylinder (manual transmission)

• FWD (mpg): 25 city / 34 highway / 28 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder (automatic transmission)

• FWD (mpg): 26 city / 38 highway / 31 combined

1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder (manual transmission)

• FWD (mpg): 30 city / 40 highway / 34 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (Focus ST)

• FWD (mpg): 22 city / 30 highway / 25 combined

2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (Focus RS)

• FWD (mpg): 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined

Focus Electric

• FWD (MPGe): 107 combined
• Range: 115 miles

2018 Ford Focus Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are subpar for the 2018 Ford Focus, with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5. Owners give the Focus less-than-stellar feedback for quality, reliability, and value

Reasons to Buy It

• Numerous powertrain and trim options
• Sedan and hatchback body styles
• All-electric powertrain option
• Fuel efficient

Problems

• Tight rear seat space, especially in the sedan
• Some owners report issues with the PowerShift automatic transmission
• Interior materials in base models may feel less premium than some competitors
• Advanced safety features are limited to higher trims
• The infotainment system in base models is basic compared to some rivals

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CoPilot's Take

The 2018 Ford Focus has many strengths, thanks to a diverse lineup, engaging driving dynamics, and a range of available technologies. One of the Focus' greatest assets is its versatility. From the efficient base models to the high-performance ST and RS variants and even an all-electric option, there's a Focus to suit just about every compact car shopper.

However, the 2018 Ford Focus has its share of shortfalls. The rear seat space is tight, especially in the sedan version, which may be an issue for families or those who frequently transport adult passengers. Problems with the automatic transmission and certain engines have also been reported, which serve as reminders to always get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from a professional mechanic.

2018 Ford Focus FAQs

What are the common faults of the Ford Focus 2018?

A review of records from NHTSA and carcomplaint.com shows several common issues for the 2018 Ford Focus:

Problems with the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, including hesitation, shuddering, and premature wear

• Engine stalling in some units
• Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system
• Suspension problems, especially in performance models
• Premature clutch wear in manual transmission models

Is the 2018 Ford Focus a good car?

The 2018 Ford Focus can be considered a good car, depending on individual needs and preferences. Its strengths include engaging handling, various engine options, high-performance variants, good fuel economy, and a practical hatchback option. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as limited rear seat space and potential transmission issues with the PowerShift automatic.

How many miles will a 2018 Ford Focus last?

A 2018 Ford Focus can last 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Longevity is dependent on driving conditions, upkeep, and individual vehicle usage. Regular oil changes, following the recommended maintenance schedule, and addressing any issues promptly can help maximize the vehicle's lifespan.

Is there a recall on the 2018 Ford Focus transmission?

Yes, there have been recalls about the transmission of the 2016-2018 Ford Focus for models equipped with the 1.0-liter turbo engine and the six-speed manual transmission. The recall addresses issues such as loss of power, unexpected downshifts, and potential clutch fractures. Owners and prospective buyers can check recall status through Ford dealers or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

What trims are available for the 2018 Ford Focus?

Trims vary by body style and include:

• 2018 Ford Focus S (sedan only)
• 2018 Ford Focus SE
• 2018 Ford Focus SEL
• 2018 Ford Focus Titanium
• 2018 Ford Focus ST (hatchback only)
• 2018 Ford Focus Electric (hatchback only)
• 2018 Ford Focus RS (hatchback only)

Check Out: Here Are The Ford Focus Years To Avoid