2018 Ford Fiesta Review

Name: 2018 Ford Fiesta Review
Brand: Ford
Price: 7980 USD

Ford Fiesta Titanium Sedan Exterior Shown

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byTravis Langness^{Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Sporty handling in turns
Well-appointed interior with advanced technology options
ST model's zesty performance

Cons

Limited cargo and rear seat space
Ride quality and seat comfort are poor compared to rivals

What’s new

A rearview camera is now standard on all 2018 Ford Fiestas, and the standard 3.5-inch central display screen has been replaced with a 4.2-inch screen. The previously optional 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine has been eliminated from the lineup.

Vehicle overview

Available as a sedan or a hatchback, the 2018 Ford Fiesta is a subcompact car worth checking out. It handles well around corners, offers lots of available features and, for driving enthusiasts, comes in a high-performance ST version that's a blast to drive.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$137/mo

$174/mo

Avg. Compact Car

Calculate my fuel costs

Ford has been selling this generation of the Fiesta since 2011. That's a long time in the automotive world to go without a full redesign, but the Fiesta's inherent goodness has kept it in good standing. About the only significant criticism we can level at it is its lack of space. The back seat is tight and the cargo space is simply subpar, even for a subcompact. We're also a little disappointed that Ford has discontinued the Fiesta's optional 1.0-liter, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. Previously, this engine offered a significant boost in fuel economy (up 5 mpg combined from the standard engine).

Overall, though, we think the 2018 Fiesta is a smart choice for a fun and inexpensive car.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

8.2 / 10

While it might be inexpensive, the 2018 Ford Fiesta definitely doesn't feel cheap. A well-trimmed cabin with lots of available tech and sophisticated handling characteristics set it apart from key rivals. A lack of cargo space might be a concern, though.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2014 Ford Fiesta Sedan SE (1.6L inline-4 | 6-speed dual-clutch automatic | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Ford Fiesta has received some revisions, including some changes to standard and optional equipment, but overall our findings from the 2014 model remain broadly applicable to this year's Ford Fiesta.

Scorecard

Overall	8.2 / 10
Driving	8.5
Comfort	8.0
Interior	8.0
Utility	7.0

Driving

8.5

Like other subcompacts, the Fiesta isn't blessed with extra power, and it's not helped by the twin-clutch PowerShift automatic-like transmission in normal driving. Still, enthusiasts will enjoy the sportily tuned chassis.

Acceleration

9.0

The 1.6-liter four-cylinder never feels strong. The Fiesta makes it from zero to 60 mph in 9.4 seconds, average for the segment.

Braking

8.0

The brake pedal has an intuitive feel out on the road. Emergency stopping distances are average for the class.

Steering

9.0

Nice and quick steering with good feedback. Makes you relish any corner or freeway on-ramp. The Fiesta's sportiness is aided by a grippy, thick-rimmed steering wheel.

Handling

8.5

Around turns is where the Fiesta separates itself. A well-tuned suspension makes it fun to drive.

Comfort

8.0

As subcompacts go, the Fiesta lags behind a few competitors in comfort, mostly in terms of ride quality and the seats. But it's one of the quietest cars in the class.

Seat comfort

6.5

There's not a lot of padding, and the cloth material feels scratchy when you're wearing shorts. There's also minimal adjustability; plus the seatback lever is a poor design, hidden by the seat belt.

Ride comfort

7.5

Not overly surprising since Ford leaned toward sportiness with the Fiesta, the ride quality can be a bit choppy, compounded by the short wheelbase. Better seat padding would help, too.

Noise & vibration

9.0

The Fiesta is one of the quietest cars in the class at 70 mph cruising speed. It's good for this class, but not compared to a bigger car. The tires are quiet, but you can always hear the little four-cylinder engine working.

Interior

8.0

The Fiesta has a few touches here and there that let you know Ford is trying to make you feel special. It's assembled well and, other than some minor MyFord Touch annoyances, the interior is functional and easy to use.

Utility

7.0

While the Fiesta isn't abysmal when it comes to cargo space, it isn't great either. Most of its chief rivals have it beat on cargo space, with the seats up or folded. Small-item storage, however, is laudable up front.

Small-item storage

Excellent small-item storage up front with four cupholders and plenty of bins. No door pockets in the rear, though.

Cargo space

The sedan's trunk is small for the class. The rear seats fold, but not quite flat. The hatchback's cargo hold is larger, but overall the Fiesta comes up short in this category compared to rivals such as the Honda Fit.

Technology

We're generally fond of the Fiesta's in-car tech from the standard Sync system's voice recognition to the turn-by-turn driving directions and emergency assistance. The available Sync 3 system improves on that idea with sharp graphics, intuitive controls and a 6.5-inch touchscreen.

2018 Ford Fiesta models

The 2018 Ford Fiesta is a subcompact car offered in two body styles: a sedan and a four-door hatchback. Both are available in S, SE and Titanium trim levels. The high-performance ST model is available only as a hatchback. The affordable base S is modestly equipped, while the SE and Titanium trim levels offer more tech features, such as the Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The high-performance ST comes with a six-speed manual, a sport-tuned suspension and a strong, turbocharged engine.

The S starts off with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (120 horsepower, 112 pound-feet of torque), a five-speed manual transmission (a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic is available as an option), 15-inch steel wheels, power mirrors, a rear spoiler (hatchback only), remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power locks, manual windows, Bluetooth, Sync voice controls, a 4.2-inch center display, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and a USB port.

The Fiesta SE builds on the above with 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, upgraded cloth upholstery, a front center console with armrest, power windows, cruise control, chrome interior door handles, metallic-painted interior trim, multicolor ambient lighting, and MyKey parental controls for teen drivers.

The optional SE Appearance package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler (sedan), cloth sport upholstery, adjustable lumbar support for the driver, a leather-wrapped shift knob (automatic only), the Sync 3 infotainment interface with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, enhanced voice controls (including Sync AppLink mobile app integration), satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and dual USB ports. The Cold Weather package bundles heated outside mirrors, heated front seats and automatic climate control.

The Titanium trim level incorporates the contents of the SE Appearance and Comfort packages but wears a different set of 16-inch alloy wheels, further adds chrome exterior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer, a black grille and rear parking sensors. It also has keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, a rearview camera, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an eight-speaker Sony sound system with HD radio.

The Fiesta ST hatchback also starts with the SE's amenities plus the SE Appearance package, and then adds a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (197 hp, 202 lb-ft), a six-speed manual transmission, 17-inch wheels with summer performance tires, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, quicker steering, unique bodywork and dual-exhaust tips. You also get keyless entry and ignition, ST-specific cloth sport seats (with driver height adjustment), distinctive interior trim, and the Sony sound system with HD radio. The ST Recaro package adds heated Recaro front sport seats (including height adjustments), leather and cloth upholstery, and heated mirrors. Also available are black 17-inch wheels with red brake calipers.

A sunroof and a navigation system are stand-alone options on the SE, Titanium and ST trims.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4/5Above Average

#15 out of 27 among Subcompact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ford Fiesta from 2008-2022.}

$438/yr

vs. $416/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.98x/yr

vs. 1.22x/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

10.5%

vs. 10.1%
for Average Subcompact Car

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Ford Fiesta.

5 (58%)

4 (22%)

3 (3%)

2 (11%)

1 (6%)

4.2

36 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

The death of the Manual Trans is only a rumor

Jeff Hurckes, 09/07/2017

2017 Ford Fiesta ST 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

This vehicle is downright amazing for a commuter car that can go out onto the track and still have fun. Yes, it still has that cheap car build quality issues, such as road noise, but it has it where it counts. Out-corners and out-brakes most anything on the road, and acceleration is nothing to shake a stick at either.

Second Fiesta, love them both!

Ms. Janene Engle, 10/29/2018

2018 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)

First of all, I would like to say that if you're a man, whether medium sized or large, don't bother buying this car. It's not big enough. However, if you're small or regular size woman, it's GREAT! I wouldn't imagine guys would be too interested in it unless they are wanting something small with great gas mileage. Secondly, this is the second Fiesta I have owned, my other was a 2012 … 5-speed manual, I prefer manual transmissions and with this car, it just works better. I get an average of 36-40 MPG even around rural Idaho. My first Fiesta had 95,000+ miles without any issues, only oil changes. It was very dependable. I find the trunk has plenty of space and as for the back seats? I have no problems fitting my daughters in it comfortably for long drives. Again, I wouldn't recommend it for growing teenage boys or adult men, or even tall girls. The leg space is limited. Some people have complained about it being narrow, but the benefits of that are awesome. It's easy to park, and fits almost everywhere. It handles very well, is quiet and feels solid. Even after 6 years, my older one was still holding together well, didn't have interior noises or things falling apart. I owned a Toyota Corolla in the past, and the Fiesta is every bit as solid and well built, but gets better gas mileage. My favorite part is the manual window cranks that you can't find on other cars. There is plenty of convenient technology without it being over the top ridiculous. The only down side I've found about this car is the fact that it doesn't have a LOT of power. So if you're passing someone on a rural road, be sure to have plenty of room to get around them. You won't be breaking any speed records with this one. One year later: I still LOVE this car. It's been great on trips, even loaded with two other people and luggage it still gets almost 40 mpg on the highway. Aside from oil changes, I've had to do nothing to it. No issues at all. Just peace of mind. The five-speed manual transmission is definitely the way to go with the Fiesta, it handles well in snow and ice as long as you have studded tires all the way around. I'm very pleased with the onboard updates like backup camera and voice commands for your electronic devices. The roll down windows are a favorite option and the seats make all day driving easy. This isn't a fancy car, but if you're interested in something that works well, is economic on your pocket book, and reliable, this is the car for you. Thanks Ford! I would happily buy another just like it!

Not bad for bottom of the automotive food chain!

Al B., 08/31/2018

2018 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)

So, we got a really good deal on a new 2018 Fiesta SE. After a couple of weeks, here are my initial impressions. (1) It's a small car. No duh, right? But it is rather cramped inside, mainly because it is such a narrow car. My left knee knocks into the door cup holder that is too far forward, and my right knee bangs up against the center console. The front seat moves back far enough to …

Great value!

Lindsey B., 08/09/2017

2017 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 5M)

This car is the perfect car for anyone that is a first-time buyer, first-time driver, someone looking to stretch a buck at the dealer, or someone that (like me) drives great distances to get to work. From the moment I got this car I've loved nearly everything about it. The dealership was superb, the pricing was fantastic, the car runs like a dream, and I'm getting 3mpg OVER what the …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Ford Fiesta, so we've included reviews for other years of the Fiesta since its last redesign.

See all 36 reviews of the Ford Fiesta

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2018 Fiesta Highlights

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$14,205
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$137/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Fiesta models:

MyKey Parental Controls: Lets you set driving parameters for secondary drivers such as teens or valets.
Rear Parking Sensors: Warns the driver about nearby objects behind the Fiesta when in reverse. It makes the Fiesta even easier to park.
Rearview Camera: Provides a view behind you when in reverse. It's now standard on the Fiesta.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat4 / 5
Back Seat4 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover14.3%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Marginal
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good