2018 Ford Focus 1.5 Ecoboost 182 ST-Line X review – verdict
Until the hot ST model arrives in 2019, this 180bhp petrol version is as spicy as the Ford Focus gets. We try it for the first time...
The latest Focus is one of the very best family hatchbacks, there’s no question about that. The extra oomph of this 180bhp engine is welcome over the slightly lethargic 1.0 Ecoboosts, too.
The problem is the price. Partly because it’s available only in lofty ST-Line X trim, the brochure states a punchy £25,650. True, you’ll save at least £1800 by haggling (or by using our New Car Buying service), but we still think there’s better value to be had lower down in the Focus range.
Where, exactly? Well, we’d stick with Titanium trim, save a few quid and enjoy a slightly more forgiving ride as a bonus. Or, if you value sportier looks and are happy to trade a smidgen of ride comfort for a drop of extra handling pizazz, the regular ST-Line is also worth considering.
Of course, choosing either of those trims means you can’t have this 180bhp engine. But that’s really no big deal because, as we’ve already mentioned, the 148bhp version of the same 1.5 petrol doesn’t feel much slower in the real world. It also costs less to buy, emits slightly less CO2 (good news if you’re a company car driver) and should even drink slightly less fuel on your daily commute.
What Car? says...
Rated 4 out of 5
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Ford Focus 1.5 Ecoboost 182 ST-Line X specification
Price £25,650 On sale Now Engine 3cyl, 1497cc, turbo, petrol Power 180bhp Torque 177lb ft Gearbox 6-spd manual Kerb weight na 0-62mph 8.3sec Top speed 138mph Economy 51.4mpg (NEDC average) CO2, tax band 126g/km, 26% Rivals Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Golf
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