2018 Ford Focus vs. 2018 Volkswagen GTI Full Comparison of Specs, Features, and Owner Reviews
2018 Ford Focus
Year
2018
Trim
S
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Year
2018
Trim
S
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Engine
2.0L I
2.0L TSI I
Number of cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Flex Fuel Capability
Gasoline Fuel
Fuel Capacity
12.4 gal.
13.2 gal.
Torque
146 ft. lbs.
258 ft. lbs.
Horsepower
160 hp.
220 hp.
MPG (City/Hwy)
26/38
24/32
Transmission
5 Speed Auto - Shift Manual w/OD
6 Speed Auto - Shift Manual w/OD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Cargo Capacity
13.2 cu. ft.
17.4 cu. ft. - 53.7 cu. ft.
Curb Weight
2935 lbs. - 2959 lbs.
3128 lbs.
Tires
P195/65HR15
P225/40HR18 - P225/40YR18
Front Head Room
38.3"
38.4"
Front Leg Room
41.9"
41.2"
Wheelbase
104.3"
103.6"
Length
178.5"
168"
Width
71.8"
70.8"
Height
57.7"
57.8"
Valves per cylinder
4
4
Exterior Photos & Dimensions
2018 Ford Focus
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Exterior Features
2018 Ford Focus
Trim
S
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Trim
S
Steel Spare Wheel
Standard
Standard
Wheels: 18" Austin Alloy
Not Available
Standard
Compact Spare Tire Mounted Inside Under Cargo
Standard
Standard
Wheels w/Machined w/Painted Accents Accents
Not Available
Standard
Wheels: 15" Steel w/Silver-Painted Cover
Standard
Not Available
Tires: 18" All-Season
Not Available
Standard
Tires: 195/65R15
Standard
Not Available
Body-Colored Power Heated Side Mirrors w/Manual Folding and Turn Signal Indicator
Not Available
Standard
Black Power Side Mirrors w/Convex Spotter and Manual Folding
Standard
Not Available
Black Grille
Not Available
Standard
Body-Colored Rear Bumper
Standard
Standard
Body-Colored Door Handles
Not Available
Standard
Body-Colored Front Bumper
Standard
Standard
Fixed Rear Window w/Fixed Interval Wiper and Defroster
Not Available
Standard
Black Grille w/Chrome Accents
Standard
Not Available
Speed Sensitive Rain Detecting Variable Intermittent Wipers w/Heated Jets
Not Available
Standard
Black Door Handles
Standard
Not Available
Auto On/Off Aero-Composite Halogen Daytime Running Headlamps w/Delay-Off
Not Available
Standard
Fully Galvanized Steel Panels
Standard
Standard
Perimeter/Approach Lights
Not Available
Standard
Clearcoat Paint
Standard
Standard
LED Brakelights
Not Available
Standard
Black Side Windows Trim and Black Front Windshield Trim
Standard
Standard
Front Fog Lamps
Not Available
Standard
Light Tinted Glass
Standard
Standard
Tailgate/Rear Door Lock Included w/Power Door Locks
Not Available
Standard
Variable Intermittent Wipers
Standard
Not Available
Lip Spoiler
Not Available
Standard
Auto On/Off Aero-Composite Halogen Headlamps w/Delay-Off
Standard
Not Available
Liftgate Rear Cargo Access
Not Available
Standard
Trunk Rear Cargo Access
Standard
Not Available
Fixed Rear Window w/Defroster
Standard
Not Available
Exterior Colors
2018 Ford Focus
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Interior Photos, Dimensions & Features
2018 Ford Focus
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Interior Features
2018 Ford Focus
Trim
S
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Trim
S
60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Fold Forward Seatback Cloth Rear Seat
Standard
Not Available
Heated Top Sport Front Seats -inc: power reclining, manually adjustable front seats, manual lumbar support and height adjustment
Not Available
Standard
Cloth Front Bucket Seats -inc: 6-way manual driver (up/down, fore/aft, recline), 4-way manual passenger (fore/aft, recline) and removable adjustable head restraints (2-way)
Standard
Not Available
60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Fold Forward Seatback Rear Seat
Not Available
Standard
Seats w/Cloth Back Material
Standard
Standard
Manual Anti-Whiplash Adjustable Front Head Restraints and Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
Not Available
Standard
Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
Standard
Not Available
6-Way Driver Seat
Not Available
Standard
Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
Standard
Standard
6-Way Passenger Seat
Not Available
Standard
Instrument Panel Bin, Driver / Passenger And Rear Door Bins
Standard
Not Available
HVAC -inc: Underseat Ducts and Console Ducts
Not Available
Standard
Gauges -inc: Speedometer, Odometer, Engine Coolant Temp, Tachometer, Trip Odometer and Trip Computer
Standard
Standard
Cloth Seating Surfaces -inc: Clark Plaid inserts
Not Available
Standard
SYNC Communications & Entertainment System -inc: enhanced voice recognition, 911 Assist, 4.2" LCD display in center stack, AppLink, 1 smart charging USB port, and Bluetooth, SYNC AppLink lets you control some of your favorite compatible mobile apps w/your voice, It is compatible w/select smartphone ...
Standard
Not Available
Style Leather Steering Wheel
Not Available
Standard
Full Floor Console w/Covered Storage, Mini Overhead Console w/Storage and 1 12V DC Power Outlet
Standard
Not Available
Cruise Control w/Steering Wheel Controls
Not Available
Standard
Cargo Area Concealed Storage
Standard
Standard
Interior Trim -inc: Piano Black Instrument Panel Insert, Piano Black Door Panel Insert and Metal-Look Interior Accents
Not Available
Standard
Full Carpet Floor Covering -inc: Carpet Front Floor Mats
Standard
Not Available
Instrument Panel Covered Bin, Refrigerated/Cooled Box Located In The Glovebox, Driver / Passenger And Rear Door Bins
Not Available
Standard
Cargo Space Lights
Standard
Standard
Compass
Not Available
Standard
FOB Controls -inc: Cargo Access
Standard
Standard
Outside Temp Gauge
Not Available
Standard
Cloth Door Trim Insert
Standard
Standard
Full Floor Console w/Covered Storage, Mini Overhead Console w/Storage and 3 12V DC Power Outlets
Not Available
Standard
Interior Trim -inc: Chrome Interior Accents
Standard
Not Available
2 Seatback Storage Pockets
Not Available
Standard
Driver And Passenger Visor Vanity Mirrors
Standard
Not Available
Front Center Armrest and Rear Center Armrest w/Pass-Thru
Not Available
Standard
Driver Foot Rest
Standard
Standard
Full Carpet Floor Covering -inc: Carpet Front And Rear Floor Mats
Not Available
Standard
Urethane Gear Shifter Material
Standard
Not Available
Rigid Cargo Cover
Not Available
Standard
Glove Box
Standard
Not Available
Driver And Passenger Visor Vanity Mirrors w/Driver And Passenger Illumination
Not Available
Standard
Day-Night Rearview Mirror
Standard
Standard
Leather/Aluminum Gear Shifter Material
Not Available
Standard
Front Cupholder
Standard
Standard
Illuminated Glove Box
Not Available
Standard
Rear Cupholder
Standard
Standard
Power 1st Row Windows w/Front And Rear 1-Touch Up/Down
Not Available
Standard
Carpet Floor Trim
Standard
Standard
Power Rear Windows
Not Available
Standard
Full Cloth Headliner
Standard
Standard
Front And Rear Map Lights
Not Available
Standard
Manual Rear Windows
Standard
Not Available
Power Fuel Flap Locking Type
Not Available
Standard
Power 1st Row Windows w/Driver 1-Touch Down
Standard
Not Available
Remote Releases -Inc: Power Fuel
Not Available
Standard
Fade-To-Off Interior Lighting
Standard
Standard
3 12V DC Power Outlets
Not Available
Standard
Delayed Accessory Power
Standard
Standard
Remote Keyless Entry w/Integrated Key Transmitter, Illuminated Entry and Panic Button
Not Available
Standard
Power Door Locks w/Autolock Feature
Standard
Standard
Immobilizer III Immobilizer
Not Available
Standard
1 12V DC Power Outlet
Standard
Not Available
Valet Function
Not Available
Standard
Remote Keyless Entry w/Integrated Key Transmitter and Panic Button
Standard
Not Available
Redundant Digital Speedometer
Not Available
Standard
Securilock Anti-Theft Ignition (pats) Immobilizer
Standard
Not Available
Manual Air Conditioning
Standard
Standard
Air Filtration
Standard
Standard
Driver Information Center
Standard
Standard
Trip Computer
Standard
Standard
Analog Appearance
Standard
Standard
Owner Reviews
Loyd
I3 turbo with 6 speed manual
Besides having a front half shaft failure at about 20k miles and wearing out tires about every 20,000 miles as well. At just over 52,000 miles now it has a lifetime fuel mileage average of 35 mpg, which considering how the 2.0L 6 speed manual 2015 model it replaced had a lifetime average of 28- pretty happy with the decision to go with the 1.0L turbo. I did just have to replace the brake pads front and rear but the rotors were flat and good and were even turnable to get a good bed in and bite with all new pads. The aero pan connectors are pretty useless since the dealers use air tools to spin in and out the screws and they strip them, the thing has dragged now a few times and I have had to get new fasteners nearly every oil change unless I do it myself with hand tools. For a small car it is plenty comfortable and has made a couple trips from MN to CA and back averaging over 40mpg running above posted speed limits the entire time, one tank of memory was 48mpg and that is fantastic mpg for any vehicle... Take that prius owners
John M
Ford cars are the most comfortable to wear.
This car is very comfortable to drive, environmentally friendly because it is an electric car, the performance is good and the interior is very cool. Try it, you will definitely love it and consider buying it. This car brand has been very trusted in the world of automotive.
Ian P
Great car with nice features.
It works extremely well and I haven't had any mechanical problems since I bought it. Has great gas mileage and comfortable adjustable seating. Plenty of space in the back for passengers as well. The Bluetooth connection works well and has a good base sound system. Overall a great car for small families.
Logan J
Ford focus and warranty coverage.
Vehicle runs well. Does it is job. Good gas mileage. We have had some repairs completed under warranty. Ac vent failure and clutch. Warranty coverage took care of both concerns and issues a rental car at night cost. Ford dealership schedules the service and call when repairs are complete. Easy and simple process.
Kimberly C
Ford focus 2018 definitely a win.
Super reliable car. Very quiet on long road trips roomy for 2 to 3 people. Give us plenty of leg space for people in the back as well as for the front adjustable seats for people who are shorter to reach. The trunk is a bit small but if you adjust it right and take the cover part of it definitely accommodates for a lot of groceries.
Alix M
The thrilling ride you didn't know you were going to get.
It is a beautiful blue and a very speedy car. My favor feature is that the car is a standard. There are 4 different modes and two of the are only for the track. I have had it for almost 3 years and I cannot find anything that I do not like about my car. I would definitely recommend to everyone that loves a good thriller car to drive around. The only thing I do not like is that my nephews car seat does not fit well in the back seat. The only problem with that is I may have to get a “mom” car if we do decide to have little ones.
Austin E
The St is a blast to drive.
The car is great. No problems so far. The base model St interior seating is a little to be desired but is still standard across most vehicles in its class. The engine performance is awesome. There is a lot of torque and how end hp. The car handles great! It drives like it is on rails through tight twists and turns.
Matt P
Focus St hatchback or the century.
I have had no problems at all, my St has full. Bolt on aftermarket parts and it still gives me no problems to this day. Currently at 35,000 miles not one issue to report. I drive my car every day and I usually get on the gas time and time again it has incredible power to weight ratio, has enough room for a road trip and is really comfortable.
Renee R
The car has three different modes you can drive in.
The car is super fun to drive! However, it has a very small gas tank and is not super fuel efficient. The start-stop engine is an interesting feature, however in the summer when you come to a stop, the air conditioning also turns off and the car gets very hot.
Zsuzsanna P
Perfect car for the city.
Great car, highly recommended. Many safety and comfort features. The only 1 thing missing is the memory seat settings as there are 2 drivers in our household. Otherwise everything else is just perfect. It is a manual which really allows you to enjoy the power of turbo.
Max L
Gti: balanced jack of all trades.
Best bang for your buck car that I have found, as Volkswagen seems to have better interiors than most competing brands. I wanted something sporting with a manual transmission and this checked all the boxes for me. The extended warranty by default was an added bonus so that I know my car will be protected for longer than other brands. I do not know if I could go back to a sedan having driven a hatchback now as it fits almost everything that I could ask for in the back, while still scratching that small car itch I have.
JEFFREY H
It has paddles behind the steering wheel.
Water comes in from the sunroof when it rains at times. The speed on it is really nice and it has nitro so you have to push on the gas gently. The gears switch nicely and it is automatic not manual. Pretty small but it is a sports car. Wouldn't recommend if you are trying to use the car for long distance travel like a road trip.
Esme L
Fun to drive. Reliable. Practical. Good looking. Well construction.
Very reliable and well performance. The motor response is great driving in the city or highway. This is a very fun vehicle to drive, it feels safe and the design is just beautiful. Interior 'leather' is very durable it does not look cheap, well design interiors. Seats are comfortable at least for rides shorter than 5 hrs. The storage space is great you can fit a lot of stuff almost like a SUV but cooler. However driving this vehicle in some Atlanta streets is a bit stressful, when passing over a hole street or damaged roads, since the car is pretty low from the floor but nothing that the construction of the car cannot resist.
Jay A
It provides the basic idea what the well-made car should have.
I like the performance of the vehicle, especially acceleration. Also it gives a fun to drive.
Anna C
Best decision to be made for anyone looking for a hot hatch.
Great performance. I love the smart app system. I no longer have a need for a separate GPS or iPod because I can just plug my phone into my car. It is good on gas. There’s good passenger and trunk space so I can go out with friends for a fun outdoor weekend. In terms of looks, it is a very fun, modern, sporty looking car that easily catches attention.
Mitch C
Versatile go anywhere vehicles.
No problems through 30k miles just regular maintenance which has primarily been tires and oil changes. There are some bigger maintenance items coming up for example the spark plugs and ignition coils which can be costly if you do not do the work yourself. Performance is great. Car is very aftermarket friendly.
Advantage: 2018 Volkswagen GTI
Problems Reported By Owners
2018 Ford Focus
Based on owner reviews, 1.3% of users reported having problems with the 2018 Ford Focus
Ian P
Great car with nice features.
It works extremely well and I haven't had any mechanical problems since I bought it. Has great gas mileage and comfortable adjustable seating. Plenty of space in the back for passengers as well. The Bluetooth connection works well and has a good base sound system. Overall a great car for small families.
Logan J
Ford focus and warranty coverage.
Vehicle runs well. Does it is job. Good gas mileage. We have had some repairs completed under warranty. Ac vent failure and clutch. Warranty coverage took care of both concerns and issues a rental car at night cost. Ford dealership schedules the service and call when repairs are complete. Easy and simple process.
Christopher A
The focus is a good car for long trips and long commutes.
I have transmission problems after 70,000 miles. Also, I have had low fuel mileage since 60,000 miles. The car is roomy and rides very well on long trips. The steering wheel warmer is a little over the top for me. I like the audio system and navigation. Both work very well and are very reliable. The ambient light system is a nice little touch to give the car a personal feel.
Katy P
A good daily driver, when the clutch is working.
The 2018 ford focus is a decent car, but comes with a few problems. I have had to have the clutch replaced and had problems with my fuel line as well. Both of these seem to problems for many focus’. The car is a good daily driver however with few blind spots and is easy to operate. Despite it being a small car there is still a fair amount of room. I wouldn't buy another ford focus again though, seeing as these seem to be recurring problems with every year in later models.
Britney M
Lots of transmission problems.
Transmission problems, check engine light is always on.We've checked into it and cannot find the source I wouldn't recommend a focus for a long term car unfortunately. It is definitely an upgrade from my old one I just wish I would've done more research on the transmission problems these focus’s have.
Cassidy H
Ford focus is a quality car for the price.
It has a transmission problem. It is covered by the warranty- but can be annoying to deal with. Drives very smooth. Sturdy car! The hatchback feature is great-seats lay down making it very spacious. Comfy seats. Nice technology. Nothing too fancy but it gets the job done with Bluetooth.
Marjorie P
Black, shiny very sharp looking vehicle
Great on gas, comfortable ride, i really like the car, the only problem is my car overheated after only having it 2 weeks, I bought it brand new and it had a pinhole leak in the coolant reservoir. Was very disappointed as it only had 200 miles . Ford stood by it though and fixed it.
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Based on owner reviews, 3.0% of users reported having problems with the 2018 Volkswagen GTI
Jared G
The pickup on the gti is unlike any other.
The car is a great car. Very comfortable with great features. Navigation screen is nice size, easy to use, and clear. As far as performance goes for the price you cannot get much better. Only complaint is the front wheel drive can sometimes be a bit problematic.
Advantage: 2018 Ford Focus
Pros & Cons from Owners
2018 Ford Focus
Karina B.
I love my car it's runs great it's good on gas and it's very comfortable. Its has a navigation system, backup camera which is very useful. I love that it has Sirius so I have some many stations I can listen to.
Karina B.
None I have no complaints about my car. There is no cons I can think of I would recommend this car to everyone. Maybe only con will be if I had a large family we will all not fit. You will need a SUV.
Hulrich N.
Its economic, practical and spacious. Ideal for my family, safe and elegant, I feel very good in my car, it's all I always wanted to have, it a car that represents me, I feel comfortable and happy. I love my car.
Hulrich N.
No disadvantage.For now I feel I have the best choice for myself and my family, the most important thing is that it is economical and I can travel with him throughout the country. I can't say anything bad about the car.
Meredith R.
I really like how it drives. It drives smooth. All of the features inside is very nice. The way that Ford services their cars are very good too. All of the cars that I have owned have all been Ford made.
Meredith R.
I really do not have any cons of my Ford so far. The only this is that without snow tires it does not do well in the snow. I have had this car for 2 years now and have not had any trouble with the car or Ford as a company.
Meme W.
It is good on gas, it is effective, it is efficient and good for the environment. It is something we're comfortable with. Single family friendly. Reliable and strong and gas. Focus and ford. Heat up quickly.
Meme W.
It has several transmission issues. After it starts to get Rusty and car become trashy. It does not have a good back storage. Some paint can rust easily. Have to refill gas every week or every 120 plus miles.
Pros & Cons from Owners
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Aiana C.
Good fuel efficiency, performance, handling, and engineering. Advanced interior system (GPS, backup camera). Feels safe. Great looking car (body shape, I like hatchback style cars). It looks sporty and modern.
Aiana C.
Major cons include expensive maintenance and moderate amount of recalls for each model is always expected with Volkswagen cars. Also the radio buttons to switch to the next song on the radio is sometimes difficult to find while driving.
Video Reviews
2018 Ford Focus
Video Reviews
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Entertainment Features
Compare Entertainment Features
2018 Ford Focus
Trim
S
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Trim
S
Radio: AM/FM/MP3-Capable -inc: 4 speakers, speed-sensitive volume control and redundant steering wheel audio controls
Standard
Not Available
Radio: Composition Color w/6.5" Touchscreen -inc: AM/FM w/USB input, 8-speaker sound system, VW Car-Net app-connect smartphone integration and interface (w/Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink) and Bluetooth connectivity w/audio streaming (for compatible device)
Not Available
Standard
Radio w/Seek-Scan, Clock and Radio Data System
Standard
Not Available
Radio w/Seek-Scan, Clock, Speed Compensated Volume Control, Steering Wheel Controls and Radio Data System
Not Available
Standard
Integrated Roof Antenna
Standard
Not Available
Audio Theft Deterrent
Not Available
Standard
1 LCD Monitor In The Front
Standard
Standard
Integrated Roof Diversity Antenna
Not Available
Standard
Safety Ratings & Features
NHTSA Ratings
2018 Ford Focus
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
Compare Safety Features
2018 Ford Focus
Trim
S
2018 Volkswagen GTI
Trim
S
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Standard
Standard
Side Curtain Protection Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
Not Available
Standard
ABS And Driveline Traction Control
Standard
Standard
Side Impact Beams
Standard
Standard
Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
Standard
Standard
Low Tire Pressure Warning
Standard
Standard
Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
Standard
Standard
Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
Standard
Not Available
Airbag Occupancy Sensor
Standard
Standard
Driver Knee Airbag
Standard
Not Available
Mykey System -inc: Top Speed Limiter, Audio Volume Limiter, Early Low Fuel Warning, Programmable Sound Chimes and Beltminder w/Audio Mute
Standard
Not Available
Rear Child Safety Locks
Standard
Standard
Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Center 3 Point, Height Adjusters and Pretensioners
Standard
Standard
Back-Up Camera
Standard
Standard
Available Models
Ford Focus Models
Models also known as Trim Levels, are used to identify a vehicle's level of equipment or special features.
2018 Ford Focus
Photos may not match model