2018 Ford Focus SE

The 2018 Ford Focus is a compact hatchback and sedan that squares off against the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf. The Focus is known for sharp steering and a composed chassis, making it genuinely enjoyable on a back road. Inside, the Focus offers a quiet cabin and generous cargo space, though rear legroom is tight for taller passengers. SYNC infotainment with smartphone integration is available, and higher trims add driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring. Reliability is a mixed bag, with some owners reporting transmission issues on automatic models, so a manual is worth seeking out. The base engine and standard six-speed manual set the SE apart from the more powerful SEL and Titanium trims above it. Its 1.0L I4 makes 123 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed manual, which keeps the Focus feeling light and eager around town.