2018 Ford Focus

Bringing a joy to the customers are the four distinct trim levels of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan that are namely S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trim. Starting from the base trim S, it costs around $17,950 while the upper three consecutive trims SE, SEL, and Premium come at MSRP $19,245, $21,870 and $24,270 respectively.

Trim	S 4dr sedan	SE w/eco boost 4dr sedan	SEL 4dr sedan	Titanium 4dr Sedan
MSRP	$17950	$19245	$21870	$24270
Key	SYNC Voice Recognition Communications and Entertainment System	SYNC Voice Recognition Communications and Entertainment System	SYNC 3 with 8" color LCD capacitive touchscreen in center stack,	SYNC 3 with 8" color LCD capacitive touchscreen in center stack,
Features	4.2" color LCD screen in center stack	4.2" color LCD screen in center stack	911 Assist, AppLink, Apple CarPlay compatibility,	911 Assist, AppLink, Apple CarPlay compatibility
	911 Assist, AppLink, and 1 smart-charging USB port	911 Assist, AppLink, and 1 smart-charging USB port	Android Auto compatibility, and 2 smart-charging USB ports	Android Auto compatibility, and 2 smart-charging USB ports
	Headlamps – Chrome bezels	Mirrors – Body-color (Black on RS), power side view with integrated blind spot mirrors and turn signal indicators	Headlamps – LED signature lighting	Headlamps – LED signature lighting
	Mirrors – Black, power side view with integrated blind spot mirrors		Mirrors – Body-color (Black on RS), power side view with integrated blind spot mirrors and turn signal indicators	Mirrors – Body-color, power side view with integrated blind spot mirrors, turn signal indicators and security approach lamps
				Steering wheel – Leather-wrapped

Opting for the S trim means that one will access its key features such as air conditioning, rear view camera, steering mounted audio controls and infotainment system with 4.2-inch LCD display screen. Upgrading to the SE trim, it offers almost all the features of the S trim plus some additional features including cruise control, dual illuminating vanity mirrors, compass, external temperature display and rear ventilation ducts. Additionally, the SE trim is the only trim of 2018 Focus Sedan to have the 1.0 L I-3 engine as its powerhouse.

Talking about the SEL trim, which stands above the SE trim, it offers more advanced features like the bigger 8-inch infotainment display screen, blind spot mirrors, daytime running headlamps, premium Sony sound system, rear parking sensors and 16-inch painted alloy wheels.

The Premium is the top-end trim of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan and it is the best trim for experiencing enhanced comfort and convenience. The luxurious features available in the Premium trim include heated steering wheel, hands-free entry, navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link support, and multi-level heating front seats.

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Judging on the basis of cost-effectiveness, the SEL trim is the best due to its price tag and the must-have features that it boasts. However, if one wants to save extra money on fuel, then the SE trim with a 1.0 L engine will be the best choice but one has to compromise with the performance of the vehicle.    

The Focus is pleasant to drive, with a well-judged balance between a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The main thing that’s lacking is a spirited powertrain, as both engine options lag behind the competition when it comes to horsepower.

Engine and Transmission

In the powertrain section, the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan offers two engine options namely the 1.0-Liter 3-cylinder turbocharged direct injection DOHC engine and the 2.0-Liter 4-cylinder Ti-VCT engine. The smaller capacity 1.0 L engine churns out a maximum power of 123 hp and torque of 125 lbs.-ft. On the other hand, the bigger 2.0 L engine’s power and torque figures are only a slightly better at 160 hp and 146 lbs.-ft. respectively.

Like the engine, the transmission offered by the Ford Focus also varies and depends upon the trim level. To be exact, the S trim comes with a standard 5-speed manual transmission while the SE trim incorporates a 6-speed manual gearbox. Furthermore, both the upper trims viz. SEL and Titanium come with a 6-speed PowerShift automatic as their standard transmission.

Models	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
MSRP	$17,950	$18,940	$16,975	$16,950
Engine	2.0L	2.0L	1.4L	2.0L
Transmission	5-speed manual	6-Speed manual	6-Speed manual	6-Speed manual
Horsepower	160hp@6500rpm	158hp@6500rpm	153hp@5600rpm	147hp@6200rpm
Torque	146ft lbs@4500 rpm	138lbs@4200rpm	177lbs@2000rpm	132lbs@4500rpm

Among the competition, both the Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra have a similar capacity 2.0-Liter engine while the Chevrolet Cruze employs a 1.4-Liter engine. The highest power of 160 hp is offered by the Ford Focus while the Chevrolet Cruze has the highest torque delivery of 177 lbs.-ft.  

Acceleration

The powertrain of the 2018 Focus Sedan is commanding and allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. Moreover, the quarter mile time of the Focus sedan is 16.3 seconds, which is pretty good. Yet, when compared to the rivals, both the Chevrolet Cruze and the Hyundai Elantra have better figures than the Ford Focus.

Models	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
0-60 MPH	8.3	8.5	7.5	7.8
Quarter mile	16.3	16.5	15.9	15.9
Engine	2.0L	2.0L	1.4L	2.0L
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	6.3	5.5	5.6	6.1

The Chevrolet Cruze has the most responsive acceleration that results in it to achieve a speed of 60 mph from 0 mph in just 7.5 seconds. Switching to the carbon emissions, the Ford Focus has the highest emission of 6.3 tons/year while the Honda Civic’s 5.5 tons annual emission makes it the least polluting vehicle.    

Ride and Handling

The power delivery of the vehicle is decent and smooth at all times. Taking passes at highway speeds is not a problem with the powerful 2.0 L engine. Furthermore, the steering wheel of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan is light and operates effortlessly. However, one will feel a little hardness while steering at very low speeds or when the vehicle is at a standstill.

For ensuring comfortable rides with enhanced handling the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan employs the MacPherson Strut independent front suspension and Control Blade® Independent rear suspension with stabilizer bar. Additionally, the vehicle’s sturdy construction allows it to remain fully under the driver’s control while moving at high speeds.

Braking

Despite having a moderate curb weight of 2928 lbs., the braking capability of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan is superlative. The brake pedal of the Focus Sedan is soft and when pushed in an emergency situation, it can bring the vehicle speed from 60 mph to a full stop after covering a distance of only 117 feet. Furthermore, the 60-0 mph distance of Ford Focus is the least among the competition.

Model	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
Brake Front (in.)	10.9	11.1	10.8	11.0
Brake Rear (in.)	9.0	10.2	10.5	8.0
Curb Weight (lbs.)	2928	2742	2932	2767
60-0 MPH (ft.)	117	127	121	N/A

Fuel Economy

The fuel efficiency of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan may become a concern when matched against the rivaling sedans. On a single gallon of gasoline, the Focus can cover a maximum distance of 25 miles in city driving conditions while the figure rises significantly to 34 miles while running on highways.

Model	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
MPG (city)	25	28	27	26
MPG (highway)	34	40	40	36
MPG (combined)	28	32	32	29

The stylized dashboard puts most controls close by, but the tiny central display screen is about the same size as the trip computer. Buttons can be hard to differentiate at a glance, while the snug back seat is bested by those of most rivals. Unlike the chassis, the cabin is showing its age.”- Edmunds

Seating and Comfort

Inside the Focus Sedan, there is ample space to accommodate 5 passengers including the driver. At the front row, the headroom, shoulder room and legroom available correspond to 38.3, 55.6 and 43.1 inches respectively. Among the rivalry, the Honda Civic offers the most space at the first row.  

Model	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.3/55.6/43.1	39.3/57.0/42.3	38.9/54.9/42.0	38.8/56.2/42.2
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.0/52.6/33.2	37.1/55.0/37.4	37.3/53.2/51.9	37.3/55.3/35.7

In the second row, the ford focus feels a little congested as compared to the space offered by the Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. For average size people, the rear seat of the Ford Focus is comfy but for people with long legs and broader chests, the second row may become a little cringy.

Infotainment System

For keeping the driver updated with the vehicle’s information and delivering entertainment, the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan features the SYNC® 3 infotainment system with an LCD display screen. The interface is intuitive and one can easily glide through its different features by using the buttons placed near the display screen. Additionally, the infotainment system also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that allows users to connect their smartphones.

Interior Features

From the inside, the 2018 Focus Sedan looks attractive and represents the admirable craftsmanship of Ford engineering. Apart from having a beautiful finishing and a good layout, some of the key interior features of the Ford Focus Sedan are listed as follows:

• Climate control
• Tilt and telescopic steering wheel with 4-way adjustment
• Dual visor vanity mirrors
• 12V power point at the front section
• Overhead console
• Message centre with trip computer
• High-quality cloth upholstery
• Height adjustable driver seat

Cargo Capacity

The 2018 Ford Focus Sedan is not the best sedan when it comes to accommodating a large heap of luggage. The cargo volume offered by the 2018 Focus is restricted to 13.2 cubic feet, which is the least when compared to its competitors. The Honda Civic has the most cargo capacity of 15.1 cubic feet followed by the Chevrolet Cruze’s 14.8 cubic feet.

Model	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	13.2	15.1	14.8	14.4

“With a sleek, raked windshield and tastefully flared fenders the well-proportioned Ford Focus sedan is attractive and sporty.”- Kelley Blue Book

Dimension and Weight

Model	Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan	Honda Civic LX	Chevrolet Cruze L	Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan
Curb weight (lbs.)	2928	2742	2932	2767
Length(in)	178.7	182.3	183.7	179.9
Width(in)	71.8	70.8	70.5	70.9
Height(in)	57.8	55.7	57.4	56.5
Ground clearance (in)	4.7	5.9	6.4	5.3
Wheelbase (in)	104.3	106.3	106.3	106.3
Track width (in) F/R	61.2/60.4	60.9/61.5	60.7/61.3	61.5/61.9

The dimensions of the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan are comparable to most of the sedans prevailing in the automotive market. To be precise, the vehicle measures about 178.7 inches in length, 71.8 inches in width and 57.8 inches in height. Analyzing and comparing the proportions of the other three competing vehicles with the Focus Sedan, the Chevrolet Cruze’s 182.3 inches of length makes it the longest while the 2018 Ford Focus is the widest and the tallest.

Although the height of the Ford Focus is quite high, still it has a below-average ground clearance of 4.7 inches, which is also the least compared to its three major rivals. On the contrary, the Chevrolet Cruze offers an impressive ground clearance of 6.4 inches, which makes the vehicle suitable for some off-road action.     

Exterior Features

• Black front grille with chrome trim
• Automatic on/off headlamps
• Rear window defroster
• Capless fuel filler
• Power door locks
• Alloy wheels

Conforming to the safety standards, the 2018 Ford Focus Sedan offers a handful of safety features to ensure the protection of the passengers. Some of the notable safety features of 2018 focus are namely the 4-wheel ABS, dusk sensing headlamps, Ford’s AdvanceTrac electronic stability control system, front and rear head airbags and child locks at rear doors.

Safety Features

• Tire pressure sensors
• AdvanceTrac electronic stability control
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (excludes spare)
• SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System SOS Post-Crash Alert System
• MyKey technology to help parents encourage responsible driving Rear view camera
• LATCH-Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors for Children (rear seating positions; tether anchors on hatchback only)
• Child-safety rear door locks Emergency in-trunk release handle (sedan only) Height-adjustable shoulder safety belts for front row

Ford Focus Sedan VS Honda Civic LX

With a price tag of $18,940, the Honda Civic is almost $1,000 expensive than the Ford Focus. For the extra bucks, the Honda Civic offers lesser emission, better mileage, higher ground clearance, spacier cabin and larger cargo capacity than the Ford Focus. However, the 2018 Focus Sedan is a step ahead of the Civic in terms of engine specs, throttle response and braking ability. 

Ford Focus Sedan VS Chevrolet Cruze L

The Chevrolet Cruze is among the most successful sedans due to its competitive price tag of $16,975 and acts as an arch-rival of the Ford Focus. When compared to the 2018 Focus Sedan, the Cruze has an upper hand with its superior parameters including engine torque, 0-60 mph time, mileage, ground clearance, and trunk volume.  

Ford Focus Sedan VS Hyundai Elantra SE Sedan

The South Korean motor company Hyundai also puts up a competition to the Ford Focus Sedan with its well-renowned Elantra Sedan. One of the biggest advantages of the Elantra is its price tag of $16,950, which makes it $1,000 cheaper than the Ford Focus. The power and torque of the Elantra are lesser than that of the Ford Focus, but it can accelerate much faster. Moreover, the fuel economy, ground clearance and interior space of Elantra are also superior to that of the 2018 Ford Focus.

On the basis of performance and safety features, the Ford Focus Sedan is definitely a value for money vehicle and its different trims allow customers to have a wide variety to choose from. In total, buying the Ford’s Focus Sedan will not disappoint you at all because of its handy features. However, if you want to save a few bucks on the purchase and have requirements for better cargo space and fuel mileage then you can consider the rivals as well.