Ford has unveiled the facelifted Fiesta, including the performance-focused ST variant of its small-hatchback line-up. Said Roelant de Waard, Ford of Europe’s general manager of passenger vehicles, “The [updated] Fiesta is another big leap forward for the small-car segment, and offers a model to suit every lifestyle.” “Moving with the times to set new standards for fun-to-drive, technology and efficiency has been a huge part of Fiesta’s enduring success,” De Waard added.
Boasting a “fresh design” and “more personality”, the updated Fiesta’s new bonnet design increases the height of the nose. For the refreshed model, the “blue oval” emblem has been moved from the bonnet. and is now sited on the revised, larger front grilles.
“The [updated] Fiesta is another big leap forward for the small-car segment, and offers a model to suit every lifestyle”
Trend and Titanium models feature a broad upper grille incorporates “strong” horizontal slats and is surrounded by gloss chrome trim. Models specified in “SUV-inspired” Active guise features gloss black vertical slats. “Performance inspired” ST-Line, meanwhile, offers a “sportier” character, thanks to deeper grille inserts and gloss black honeycomb finish. The flagship, ST model gains an even more “aggressive” appearance with the fitment of honeycomb upper and lower grilles, and lower side vents which, like the front grille, is finished in model-specific Crystalline Grey.
Flanking the grilles, are standard-fitment LED headlamps which, Ford says, contribute to the more confident, modern design language. Matrix LED headlamps can be specified at additional cost.
At the rear, black surrounds house now house the standard taillamp units for a “more sophisticated appearance”. LED aft lamps, complete with Premium Black outer finish, are available as an option.
Ford has introduced an array of driving technologies, designed to “increase comfort, confidence and convenience” for drivers and passengers, to the revised Fiesta. Inside, the hatchback boasts a 12.3-inch configurable TFT digital instrument cluster. The available Sync3 infotainment system is enabled with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 8.0-inch display allows for pinch-and-swipe functionality, as well as a 180-degree view from the available reverse camera. Included in the options list is a Bang & Olufsen 10-speaker sound system.
“[The] Fiesta is a small car with real personality. Its fun-to-drive nature and quality have always been expressed through its styling,” Amko Leenarts, director of design at Ford of Europe, says. “For [the] new Fiesta we have created even more distinctive characters for each variant, so our customers can choose a version that reflects their own style and outlook on life.”
Incorporating 48 V mild-hybrid tech, the Fiesta’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid powertrain is available in two states of tune – 92 kW and 114 kW. A non-electrified EcoBoost motor is also on offer and produces 74 kW. The ST is endowed with a 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine, developing 147 kW and 320 N.m (up from 290 N.m) from 6 000 r/min and a mere 1 600 r/min respectively. Ford claims the ST completes the obligatory zero to 100 km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 230 km/h.
