The third generation of the Ford Focus line is currently in its testing phase in Europe, although the new car is still a prototype as of this writing. Some spy photos of the 2018 Focus have recently surfaced online and shows what the final product will look like once mass manufacturing begins.

The 2005-2011 Focus models were not generally well-received by the public, but Ford managed to absolve itself with the improved 2012 model. According to MSN, Ford should continue to build on the success of the 2012 Focus model to prove that the car can be popular in the U.S. market instead of letting it languish in mere obscurity.

The 2012 Focus won a spot on MSN's Best Cars of the Year List two years in a row before it was replaced by the equally impressive Mazda 3. While the 2012 Focus is still a pretty solid car, the upcoming 2018 model will be facing plenty of tough competition in an ultra-competitive car market that includes the new Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, and the impending replacement of the Mazda 3.

Experts are not anticipating Ford to start building the new Focus' structure from the ground up, but rather increase stiffness, add weight, and keep up to date with the ever-changing global crash standards. The 2012 model has excellent suspension tuning and a rigid body, two assets that need to be carried over the new Focus if the car line wishes to experience continued success.

Based on the leaked spy photos, it appears that the new Focus will not be breaking any ground in terms of style or aesthetics. According to a report by Motor 1, a Ford representative has promised that the latest Focus will the "sleek look of a coupe." However, the prototype model from the spy photos does not look coupe-like at all, although it still remains to be seen since the prototype car was camouflaged.