Ford has just pulled the covers off the new Fiesta, bringing a fresher look and a bigger dose of technology, while still sticking with mild-hybrid power.
The updates are most obvious on the outside. Up front, the revised Fiesta gains new LED headlights (standard), a reshaped bonnet that helps raise the height of the front section, and a larger grille with new outlines. The Ford badge now sits within the grille itself, rather than appearing to be “stuck” between the bonnet and the grille.
With these changes, the nose adopts a more horizontal design, which boosts the impression of width and, in turn, helps the model look more assertive on the road.
At the rear, the facelift is more subtle. The key detail is the new black surrounds for the tail-lights, which can be specified with LED technology as an option.
As usual, each Fiesta trim brings its own styling theme. Connected versions feature a wide upper grille filled with chunky horizontal bars, plus a high-gloss chrome surround and distinctive side apertures. The ST-Line range-taking inspiration from Ford Performance-adds a black honeycomb-style grille and wider side blades to deliver an even sportier character.
Finally, the Active variant continues to stand out by “offering” tougher-looking visual details that underline the Fiesta’s more adventurous side. That effect comes from more prominent protective cladding, a taller stance and, of course, roof rails.
More technology and more safety
It is inside where the updated Fiesta has moved on the most. It now comes with a new 12.3” fully configurable digital instrument cluster, paired with an 8” central touchscreen running SYNC 3. The system also supports smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Also on the options list are a wireless charging pad for smartphones and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 10 speakers, an integrated subwoofer and a 575 W digital signal processing amplifier with surround-sound capability.
The new Fiesta also introduces additional driver-assistance tech, including a Wrong-Way Alert function. Using a camera mounted on the windscreen together with navigation-system data, it provides both audible and visual warnings if the driver passes two “no entry” signs when joining a motorway.
Other highlights include Active Park Assist, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert and active braking, lane-keeping assistance, and a pre-collision assist system with active braking.
What about the engines?
There are no changes to the Fiesta’s engine line-up. Ford’s supermini continues to rely on the 1.0 l EcoBoost Hybrid (48 V system) delivering 125 cv and 155 cv, along with the 1.0 l EcoBoost producing 100 cv.
On the transmission side, buyers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed Powershift dual-clutch automatic.
Three driving modes are available (Normal, Sport and Eco). These adjust throttle response, stability and traction control, and-on automatic versions-the behaviour of the gearbox. The Fiesta Active adds two extra modes: Trail and Slippery.
Fiesta ST stays “Mean” and… “Green”
Alongside the refreshed Fiesta, the Blue Oval brand also presented the new Fiesta ST, developed by Ford Performance.
Like the rest of the range, it adopts new LED headlights, but it is set apart by a more aggressive look featuring a honeycomb-pattern grille and huge lower air intakes. The new Fiesta ST is also easy to spot thanks to revised aerodynamics, including new side skirts, a redesigned rear spoiler and a more pronounced rear diffuser.
Standard fit is a set of 17” alloy wheels, while an 18” set finished in black is offered as an option.
In the cabin, it receives new Performance seats, a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, a matte carbon-effect trim film and various red accents-details that help emphasise the sporting nature of this version.
Under the bonnet, it continues with the 1.5 l three-cylinder EcoBoost, producing 200 cv at 6000 rpm and 320 Nm (previously 290 Nm) of maximum torque between 1600 and 4000 rpm.
In addition to Normal and Sport driving modes, the new Fiesta ST adds a Track mode-in place of the Fiesta’s new Eco mode-which switches off traction control and changes the ESC settings to “wide-slip”, aimed at circuit driving.
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