2018 Ford Fiesta Pros vs Cons

If you are looking for a subcompact vehicle, the 2018 Ford Fiesta may be right for you. The new Fiesta comes in both sedan and hatchback versions. The latest model offers good gas mileage and performance. It also has a nice selection of features. We will take a look at the pros and cons of the Fiesta, as well as the competition.

What's New For 2018

This year's model features improved handling and agility. It also comes in a few new trim levels, including the new hatchback model. The new Hot Fiesta now offers a 3-cylinder, turbo engine. Ford states that the smaller motor puts out more power than the previous 4-cylinder version.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Ford Fiesta – The Pros

1. Good Performance

Base models come with a standard, 3-cylinder engine that offers wither 69 or 84 HP, depending on the trim package. The 1.0 turbocharged EcoBoost engine provides 99, 123 or 138 HP. The numbers may seem low, but the car has great acceleration and the power levels work well for the subcompact.

The Hot Hatchback model and ST trims will come with an even beefier engine. The sporty model with produce 197 HP with 214 lb-ft of torque. Ford claims the model will be able to go from 0-60 MPH in only 6.7 seconds.

Steering has always been great on the Fiesta. The 2018 model makes further improvements on an already great feature. Steering is responsive and the Fiesta feels extremely agile on the road. The ride quality is smooth and extremely quiet. Manual transmissions shift smooth and accurately.

2. Interior Style and Options

The interior style is comparable to much more expensive vehicles. The options seem nearly endless, making the interior highly customizable. The plastics feel more sturdy and high quality. There are a number of upholstery options, including leather. Everything comes in an array of different colors.

3. Nice Safety Features

The 2018 Ford Fiesta features Ford's Personal Safety System. This includes dual-stage airbags that offer protection, while cutting back on potential injuries from the bags themselves. Seat belt pretensioners, sensors and energy-management retractors are also included.

The Fiesta also includes front-seat side and driver's knee airbags. Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control, child-safety rear door locks and an SOS Post-Crash Alert System round out the main safety features.

4. Good Fuel Economy with EcoBoost

All engine packages enjoy respectable fuel-economy ratings. Manual and automatic transmission models have a combined rating of 30 MPG. The EcoBoost model is rated at 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG during highway driving. The combined average rating is an impressive 35 MPG.

5. Attractive Exterior Design

The 2018 Ford Fiesta has an attractive design that is sure to please anyone. The four-door sedan models have an attractive, conservative design. The hatchback models have a sleek, sporty look. All models come in a variety of color choices. The colors range from conservative white and silver to more eye-catching oranges and the new, liquid blue.

6. Spacious Front Seats

The cockpit area is well-designed and spacious. There is plenty of leg and head room for the driver and passenger. The 2018 Ford Fiesta shines in this area when compared to other subcompacts in its class. This years model offers more space up front than previous models have.

7. Nice Infotainment System

The new 2018 Ford Fiesta infotainment system features an 8 inch touchscreen. All of the knobs and controls for your sound system are well-placed, intuitive to find and easy to use. Ford has included its SYNC-3 software system for the infotainment center. This means that you will be able to activate many of the features by voice. Smartphones can be easily synced to the system via Bluetooth technology.

8. Voice-Activated Navigation System

With a simple voice command, you can have access to a ton of information. You can activate the GPS system and get voice directions. You can also access detailed weather and traffic information. The system can even help you to locate the nearest gas station and the lowest local fuel prices.

9. Reliability

While the 2018 model is too new to have comprehensive ratings, the Ford Fiesta has a long history of being a reliable vehicle. Recalls are unheard of for the Fiesta. The frame has stood up well to extensive crash testing and the 2018 model has been further reinforced and built to divert crash energy away from the passengers. The Fiesta should last a long while with little more than routine maintenance.

10. Ford Warranty and Roadside Assistance

If you do experience problems with your 2018 Ford Fiesta, Ford offers a comprehensive warranty. Everything is covered bumper-to-bumper for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles. Corrosion problems and the power train are covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Ford even offers roadside assistance free of charge for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles. There is no deductible for anything covered in the warranty.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Ford Fiesta – The Cons

1. Small Back Seats

The 2018 Ford Fiesta has a spacious cockpit area, but the backseat passengers will not be as comfortable. The rear sets are small and the legroom is almost non-existent. Still, this may not be much of an issue if your rear passengers will primarily be children.

2. Small Cargo Space

The hatchback model of the Fiesta has 14.9 cu. ft. of storage space. This can be expanded to over 25 cu. ft. of space with the backseats let down. The sedan offers a mere 12.8 cu. ft. If cargo space is a major factor in your car purchase, you might want to look elsewhere. While not the worst, it's far from the most space offered in this class of vehicles.

3. The Price and Availability

While the price isn't terribly high, it is higher than some of the Fiesta's key competitors. Availability may also be a factor. As of this writing, there is no guarantee that some models and trim packages will be available outside of Europe.

How the 2018 Ford Fiesta Stacks up to the Competition

Some of the top competition for the Ford Fiesta includes the Fiat 500, Honda Fit and the Chevy Sonic. When compared to the Fiat, the Fiesta is larger with more interior and cargo space. It also comes in at a lower price point. If more space is important to you, go with the Fiesta.

The Honda Fit is a great choice for a subcompact car. It offers better fuel economy and cargo space than the Fiesta. The Ford wins in the performance, infotainment and in features departments.

Chevy's Sonic is one of the first successful subcompacts from the company. The Chevy is priced below the Fiesta, but lacks the agile handling and performance of the Ford.

Conclusion

If a subcompact sedan or hatchback is what you want, the Ford Fiesta is one of the best choices in this class. The performance and handling makes the car downright fun to drive. The features, reliability and overall value make it a wonderful choice.