2018 Ford Fiesta Review
Used Fiesta for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
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 DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ford Fiesta SE 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 $3.35 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$137/mo
Fiesta SE
vs
$168/mo
Avg. Compact Car
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 / 10While 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
8.5Like 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.
Comfort
8.0As 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.
Interior
8.0The 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
7.0While 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.
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.
Which Fiesta does Edmunds recommend?
Check out the midlevel SE with the SE Appearance package. The SE comes with desirable upgrades over the base S, including power windows, cruise control and MyKey parental controls. We also recommend getting the optional Appearance package because it adds the Sync 3 infotainment interface with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, enhanced voice controls, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
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.