- Pros:
- Modern, head-turning looks inside and out
- Wide range economical engines
- Fun to drive, yet comfortable
- Cons:
- Boot is small
- Automatic gearbox only available with one engine
- Rear seats are cramped
Ford's latest Fiesta ushered in a brand-new look for the firm when it was launched in 2008. Its sharp, contemporary design made it an instant hit, but this car's popularity is also down to the brilliant way it drives and Ford's reputation for low running costs. Named Best Smal Car in our 2011 Car of the Year awards, our only real criticism is with the limited space offered by the rear seats and cramped luggage area – which lacks the versatility of rivals such as the Vauxhall Corsa. The list of three and five-door variants available is extensive. Entry-level models are called Studio and Edge, while Zetec, Zetec S and Sport+ are a little sportier, and Titanium trim offers more luxury and equipment. ECOnetic versions are the most economical.
Drive
The Fiesta always feels nimble and quick to respond
The Fiesta – like all of Ford's family cars – is great to drive. Whether you're popping to the shops or battling with city traffic, the Fiesta always feels nimble and quick to respond. However, this is not at the expense of comfort, as the Fiesta's outstanding suspension set-up simply floats over bumps and potholes. Buyers should remember that the Zetec S and Sport+ models have firmer suspension, which is a little less comfortable. All engines run smoothly, but it's the 1.25 and 1.6-litre petrol versions that impress, while the five-speed gearshift is light and slick.Comfort
Long journeys can be completed with ease
The Fiesta really does feel as quiet, comfortable and refined as a more expensive car – including those like the Mercedes A-Class. Even at motorway speeds there's little in the way of wind, road and engine noise, which helps make the Fiesta a relaxing place to be. The comfortable seats offer plenty of support and further isolate the occupants from the outside world, so long journeys can be completed with ease. The compact steering wheel is worth a special mention, as it offers a wide range of adjustment. It means even the tallest, largest drivers can find a comfortable driving position.Reliability
Fiesta scores five out of five in the Euro NCAP test
Electronic stability control is standard on all models, although you’ll have to pay extra for curtain airbags – which protect in the event of a side impact. Even so, the Fiesta scores five out of five in the Euro NCAP test. The new car is a step up from its predecessor in terms of interior build quality, too, and as of summer 2010, there have been no VOSA recalls issued.Practicality
The boot will swallow a suitcase, but struggles with prams
Buyers who regularly travel with families should really go for the five-door Fiesta, as access to the rear seats in the three-door model is poor. It's also worth noting that accommodation in the rear is compromised by the curvy shape of the Fiesta's roof. Neither leg nor headroom is particularly generous. With nearly 300 litres of stowage space, the boot will swallow a bulky suitcase, but struggles with family kit such as prams or carry cots. It's possible to fold down the rear seatbacks, but the 979-litre space it creates is awkwardly shaped, as there's a step in the floor.Value for money
Go for the mid-range Zetec mode
Recent revisions to Ford's pricing structure have brought the Fiesta back into line with rivals in the supermini class. Go for the mid-range Zetec model and it's quite well equipped, with air-conditioning, electric windows and remote central locking as standard.Running costs
Servicing is reasonably priced
Low running costs are an attractive proposition with the Fiesta. Servicing is reasonably priced and only required every year (or 12,500 miles), while insurance is either less than or the same as its predecessor's. Fuel economy is impressive, too, especially in the ECOnetic model, which boasts free Road Tax due to emissions of 98g/km.What the others say
Auto Express
4.5 /5.0
The Fiesta blends hot hatch agility with a superb ride. It's great to drive at any speed, on any type of road. A well laid out cabin, smooth petrol engine and excellent refinement are the finishing touches.
Top Gear
13.0 /20.0
The three-door looks genuinely brilliant - especially in some of the new bold colours. The five-door doesn't look half bad either. Just one problem - the Fiesta name just hasn't got the barside pizzazz you might want.
Evo
4.5 /5.0
It has the firm but controlled ride of a truly rigid car calibrated by people who love driving, it leans hardly at all, and both brakes and five-speed gearbox work exactly as you would like them to.
Honest John
4.0 /5.0
There's a very nice, Honda-like, leather rim steering wheel on top versions, height and reach adjustable on all versions. All the trim is high quality and beautifully put together. If Audi made a car this size I doubt they'd have done a better job.
| | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Studio | |||
| Studio 1.25 060 |
| £9,995 | |
| Studio 1.25 060 |
| £10,595 | |
| Studio 1.25 082 |
| £10,595 | |
| Studio 1.25 082 |
| £11,195 | |
| Studio 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £11,945 | |
| Studio 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £12,545 | |
Edge | |||
| Edge 1.25 060 |
| £10,845 | |
| Edge 1.25 060 |
| £11,445 | |
| Edge 1.25 082 |
| £11,445 | |
| Edge 1.4 096 |
| £12,050 | |
| Edge 1.25 082 |
| £12,045 | |
| Edge 1.4 096 |
| £12,650 | |
| Edge 1.4 TDCi070 DPF |
| £12,795 | |
| Edge 1.4 096 Auto |
| £13,055 | |
| Edge 1.4 TDCi070 DPF |
| £13,395 | |
| Edge 1.4 096 Auto |
| £13,655 | |
Zetec | |||
| Zetec 1.25 082 |
| £12,195 | |
| Zetec 1.4 096 |
| £12,800 | |
| Zetec 1.25 082 |
| £12,795 | |
| Zetec 1.4 096 |
| £13,400 | |
| Zetec 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £13,545 | |
| Zetec 1.4 096 Auto |
| £13,805 | |
| Zetec 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £14,145 | |
| Zetec 1.6TDCi095 |
| £14,145 | |
| Zetec 1.4 096 Auto |
| £14,405 | |
| Zetec 1.6TDCi095 |
| £14,745 | |
Titanium | |||
| Titanium 1.4 096 |
| £13,800 | |
| Titanium 1.6 120 |
| £14,400 | |
| Titanium 1.4 096 |
| £14,400 | |
| Titanium 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £14,545 | |
| Titanium 1.4 096 Auto |
| £14,805 | |
| Titanium 1.6 120 |
| £15,000 | |
| Titanium 1.4TDCi070 DPF |
| £15,145 | |
| Titanium 1.6TDCi095 |
| £15,145 | |
| Titanium 1.4 096 Auto |
| £15,405 | |
| Titanium 1.6TDCi095 |
| £15,745 | |
ECOnetic | |||
| ECOnetic 1.6 TDCi095 DPF |
| £13,895 | |
| ECOnetic 1.6 TDCi095 DPF |
| £14,495 | |
Zetec S | |||
| Zetec S 1.6 120 |
| £14,400 | |
| Zetec S 1.6TDCi095 |
| £15,145 | |
