Powertrains
Ford expects that 90% of new Fiestas will come with a petrol engine. At launch there is a 1.1-litre unit for lower-spec models, in either 70hp or 85hp outputs. As you move up the price list, the company’s acclaimed 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine is offered in outputs of 100hp, 125hpo and 140hp.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a six-speed automatic available with the 1.0-litre engines as well (base models are manual only).
If you are one of the 10% of Fiesta drivers who will choose diesel power, the 1.5-litre engine is available in 85hp and 120hp versions, only with a manual gearbox.
Ford is saying nothing about plans for a hybrid or electric Fiesta at this stage, but given that this model will be expected to last for the next eight years or so, it seems inevitable that an electrified Fiesta of some description will make an appearance at some stage.
Better than: Pretty much everything
Not as good as: Toyota Yaris, if you want a hybrid
On the road
The Ford Fiesta has long been considered one of the best superminis to drive, and the latest model enhances that reputation. Over the course of a couple of days, we drove the mid-range Titanium and top-spec Vignale models, and the Titanium felt better. This is largely down to a smoother ride from its smaller 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch on the Vignale).
The 1.0-litre petrol engine is still a stunner, and deserves all the praise that has come its way over the last few years. More than once on the deserted roads of northern Spain, I found myself looking down at the speedo to discover I was doing about 20mph more than I would have guessed.
The 1.5-litre diesel engine is also a smooth operator, and much quieter than the diesel units found in far more expensive cars. If you are one of the 10% of Fiesta buyers who will choose the diesel engine, you won’t be disappointed.
Better than: Pretty much everything*
Next page: Equipment, summary and specifications
*Where we have not driven competitor vehicles to rate against the tested vehicle, we have aggregated reports from across the UK motoring media.
