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The Wheel Deal is blown away by Ford’s fantastic new Fiesta…
In this day and age, with rising fuel prices and an imminent global recession on the cards, small cars make a whole lot of sense. That’s because they sip fuel, are generally cheap to maintain and offer a lot of real-world practicality. The trouble is, not many of them are big on style or offer sparkling driving dynamics. After all, how many times has your heart rate quickened at the sight of a Chevrolet Aveo of VW Polo? Quite.
Fortunately, Ford is set to change this perception with their swanky new Fiesta – a small car that breaks the B-segment mould with its distinctive exterior design, competitive pricing and razor-sharp handling.
Soul of the party
While the previous Fiesta was often cited as being too conservative in the looks department, this new model is anything but. Futuristic and progressive, it incorporates the company’s “Kinetic” design philosophy first seen on the dramatic Ford Iosis concept vehicle in 2005. This means you get a car that oozes visual presence thanks to its beefy wheel arches, defined shoulder lines and a distinctive trapezoidal grille. The latter gives the new Fiesta some serious attitude and will definitely make it appeal to young buyers looking for something individualistic. I was particularly impressed with the range topping 1.6 Titanium model. Sleek and aggressive, it’s one of the meanest three-door hatches I’ve seen a long time.
The interior has also undergone a serious revamp and features a fascia that’s both bold and modern. Supposedly inspired by cutting-edge electronics, I found that most of the controls were logically laid out and very easy to use. There’s even a numerical keypad that lets you operate your cell phone when the car is equipped with the Bluetooth hands-free kit. iPod integration is standard across the range, with even the entry-level models getting a 3.5mm auxiliary-in port. But the biggest revelation was the driving position. Unlike on the outgoing model, where the driver’s seat couldn’t be adjusted low enough, the new Fiesta makes you feel a lot more involved when perched behind the height and reach adjustable steering-wheel. This is great news for taller drivers and makes the car’s crisp dynamics that much more enjoyable. Build quality seems to be improved too. I was woefully unimpressed with the trim in last generation. Sure it might have looked good, but even after a few thousand kilometers the cabin was buzzing with squeaks, creaks and rattles. Fortunately all of the above were absent from the new car over the course of our test-drive.
Feisty little numbers
Besides the radical cosmetic changes, Ford’s new Fiesta range features an entirely new engine lineup. And, benefiting from an intensive development program, all three variants are up on power and down on fuel consumption and carbon emissions. At the bottom end of the scale you get a 1.4 that kicks out 71kW and 125Nm. These are pretty impressive figures for such a diminutive lump and down at sea level it provides a decent amount of poke. Although up here at our power-sapping altitude it would probably be pretty gutless, so I’d suggest you plumb for either the 88Kw 1.6, now with variable cam timing and 149Nm, or the excellent 1.6 TDCI. Sipping just 4.2 litres of diesel on the combined cycle, this was definitely my favourite powerplant on the launch. And although it only produces 66kW, its peak torque peak of 200Nm at just 1500rpm makes forward momentum an effortless affair. Unfortunately, this powerplant isn’t available in the three-door body shell.
All the right moves
Like Fiestas of old this new model is exceptionally good to drive. Stiffer and lighter than that of its predecessor, the new car’s chassis is sure-footed and very capable through the twisties. In fact, I think it’s the best handling small hatch on the market today, punching well above its weight and feeling considerably more lithe than VW’s Polo or Suzuki’s Swift. What did prove to be something of a disappointment, however, was the new electronically assisted steering that lacked the weight of the old model’s hydraulic system. But, despite being overly light, it’s accurate and telegraphs a surprising amount of feel. Capable of handling a lot more power than the 1.6 petrol unit can put out, this new platform bodes well for the future ST version.
All the range
The new Fiesta range consists of three distinct derivatives:
Ambiente: Ambiente spec is the cheapest path to Fiesta ownership, offering body coloured bumpers, Intelligent Protection System, reach and rake-adjustable steering and power mirrors as standard.
Trend: Trend spec builds on Ambiente and adds things like body coloured, powered and heated door mirrors, electric windows and remote central locking. 15-inch alloys and a bright headlamp finish are standard too.
Titanium: Titanium spec creates a premium look and feel, with chrome surrounding the side window. Front fog lamps, leather steering wheel and air conditioning come as standard. With 16-inch alloy wheels and full bodykit for the three-door model, the Titanium gives the Fiesta some serious street-racer attitude.
Cheap date
Besides looking good and driving well, the Fiesta should also be a snip to maintain thanks to its extended service intervals – 20 000km for the petrol engines and 15 000km for the diesel. What’s more, Ford has also thrown in a 4-year/120 000km warranty and a 4-year/60 000km service plan for free. That’s exceptionally good value and should attract the attention of those on the market for a new hatch.
So as you can see, I’ve been suitably impressed by Ford’s all-new hatchback. Well designed, nicely engineered and setup for a lively driving experience, I think it’s just set the new B-segment benchmark.
It sure it. I can’t wait for the ST to arrive. Some say it’ll have a 1.6 turbocharged engine in it…:)
The Titanium 1,6 120hk. The rs is not for me. I got a daughter that I need to get into the car some times ^^
I’m liking this car but I can’t seam to find the price range anywhere
Hey Lubablo, I’ve just added a pricing table to my blog. Check it out…
Best thing on the road this year, in this price range. Looks even better up clos.e than all the magazine and internet photos.
Agreed! I’m testing one for The Times at the moment and it’s by far the best car in its class. The ST will, dare I say it, rule the world…
What are the standard specs for the 1.4 ambiente. I just bought a demo model – the car sales man gave me R9 000 off because it was a demo and didnt come with the standard radio face which is not the problem (in fact huge relief on the pocket) Just want to mkae sure I didnt get ripped off in any other department.
Hi Graeme, the new 1.4 Ambiente should include a Ford radio/cd player with satellite steering wheel controls and an auxiliary port for your iPod or MP3 player. Check it out:
I want this car, I really like it. My new polo playa was smashed recently and this is definately my next choice. I am interested in the 1.6 Trend 
The 1.6 Trend is a winner! Check out my blog for the review on it…
i have a 2006 model the old spec and i only get bout 600km to a full tank…surely that can’t be right? i travel to and from work and go into town every now and then.
is there any reason why i get such a low mileage?
Hi Hayleigh. 600km on a full tank is actually rather good. The Fiesta has a smallish tank anyway – 45 litres if my memory serves me correct – so the range you’re getting is impressive. I also own a 2006 Fiesta – a 1.6 Trend – and I seldom get over 500km. Then again, do do drive rather quickly. Thomas
wats the different bteew 1.4 ambiente & 1.4 trend i wanna buy the new ford fiesta
Hey thomas would u make a quotation for me? if so can u contact me on 083 978 1361 i really need this car
Hey Angie. The 1.4 Trend is pretty much the same car as the 1.4 Ambiente except you get colour-coded/electric door mirrors, electric windows and remote central locking. The Trend package also throws in a nice set of 15-inch alloys, which do a lot to lift the car’s aesthetics. At the moment you can pick up a 1.4 Ambiente for R158 600, whilst the 1.4 Trend sells for R172 480. If I was you, I would look at the 1.6 Ambiente: it wears a price tag R169 000 and offers a lot more power and performance than the little 1.4 – definitely worth considering if you live up in the Highveld.
its ayobaness I love it,it is totally different from the previous ford fiesta.it looks more like dodge calibre,i dnt have money for dodge but surely i will feel as if im driving it.
I’m selling my 2009 1.6 Ambiente, is on +/-10000km. With Leather seats, Anti-smash & Grab, Mags. Anyone interested????
mhhhh……I’m so inlove with this car….i dont wanna look at it when im at work,coz i just get carried away.I so want it this year.BLUE colour is so AYOBA.
It was love at first sight, i want to buy it, but i don’t know the price range especially for 5 door
All the other sites are blocked here at work, so i can’t access other sites……can sum1 help me with price range…..i search for this car everyday at work…..maybe that’s why they’ve blocked the sites
I got luck accessing this one
Hi Thomas Falkiner I just bought a demo Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiete and it does not have a ford radio,from who can i fine out,lake u say it should include a Ford radio/cd player with satellite steering wheel controls and an auxiliary port for your iPod or MP3 player. please can you help do not want to be ripped off
Hi Thomas I just bought a demo Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiete and it does not have a ford radio,lake u say it should include a Ford radio/cd player with satellite steering wheel controls and an auxiliary port for your iPod or MP3 player. please can you help me do not want to be ripped off
Hi Louwrens. According to the Ford Website the Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiente comes standard with a radio/cd front loader and steering mounted audio controls. Copy and paste this link to see for yourself: http://www.timesurl.at/2e9daf
Hi Thomas,thanks for the comment,I phone a dealer and they told me that ford made a mistake with this fiestas, I ask them if the problem can me corrected ,yes, but at a cost of +-R30.000,should I just let go and leave it at that, as per your comment and the link you send me it should be lake that,at the moment its got a kenwood radio in with a normal steering,hope you can help
Hi Louwrens. It is only a pleasure. R30 000 sounds way too much to pay for the “privilege” of having a Ford branded Radio/CD front loader installed in your Fiesta. If I were you I would stick with the Kenwood system and save your money. Satellite controls on the steering wheel are nice to have but, believe me, you’ll survive without them. Just make sure that they put speakers in both the front and rear of the car. Often manufacturers skimp on budget cars by only installing them in the front.
Thank for your comment ,just think that it’s false advertising that it have a bult-in Ford Radio/CD player as standard and want R30.000 to be fitted,it does not add up,Thanks any way for your help
This new Ford Fiesta really rocks. It will capture the market because of its unique and simple appearance which car drivers like me love.
Hi Thomas. I cannot decided between a Ford Fiesta & an Opel Corsa. Which one is better??
Hi Krupa! Definitely go for the Ford Fiesta. Dynamically it’s a lot better and more enjoyable to drive on a day to day basis. As a Ford owner myself, well, I’ve found their service to be pretty good too. Parts are inexpensive and I’ve never paid more than about R700 for a service on my Fiesta. Having siad that, the Opel is certainly not a bad car. Drive the two and decide which one does it for you…
Thanks for the response Thomas! I love the sporty look of the Titanium.
But price-wise, its now to decide Titanium vs Corsa Sport, or Ambiente vs Essentia.
Only a pleasure Krupa. Look, if you want a three-door then go for the Titanium – it has a 1.6 engine versus the Corsa’s 1.4. However, if you’re willing to go down the 5-door route, then maybe check out the Corsa five-door 1.6T Sport. It has a 110kW 1.6 turbocharged engine, which gives it very brisk performance – handy if you live up at altitude. Decisions, decisions…;)
Yes, & a difficult decision indeeed!! I’m pushing my budget to the max with the Titanium. But i really really like it..
Hi Thomas!
All these weeks, i’ve had my head buried in the Car Guide section of Car magazine & only today when i looked through the contents page to see if the mag had any reviews on the Hyundai i20, did i notice an article featuring you & your Ford Mustang! (very cool pic with your shades & helmet)
Anyway, have you done any reviews on the i20 ??? I can’t seem to find any.
I went to a few dealerships today & found out that the Ford Titanium has been discontinued & replaced by the 1.6 4dr Sport. Unfortunately there wasnt a 1.6 Trend on the floor or available for a test drive. (By the way, you’ve indicated the price of the 1.6 Trend as R167 000 on your review, but the dealership advised that its R188000?)
I could view the Sport & Ambiente side by side & the huge spoiler, fog lamps & grille on the Sport are definitely what makes this car stand out.
However, in trying to stick to my budget, i then went to have a look at the Hyundai i20 & Opel Corsa Colour Edition. None of these cars were available for a test drive so all i currently have is the specs from Car mag. That’s why i’m interested to read your reviews on these 2 cars. The i20 definitely seems to be really good value for money but has no sporty look to it at all.
To be more specific regarding the Hyundai, i’m looking for reviews on the i20 1.6, please.
Hi Krupa! Haha, glad you saw that article on the Mustang in Car. Stuart Johnston was very kind to do that profile piece on that beast of mine. I won’t lie, I think that picture is pretty cool too
Anyway, yes, I did pen a short review on the i20 1.6 back in 2009. Click on this link to check it out: http://blogs.timeslive.co.za/w.....-6-review/
Hope it helps you – yell if you have any more questions!
You’re spot on with your description of the i20′s appearance! Its nothing to look at & doesnt stand out at all.
Instead of asking you a million questions about different cars, i finally found the page with your 135 car reviews. But i didnt find any on the Opel Corsa Colour Edition & also on the Mazda 1.5 Invidual. What are your thoughts on those???
I did notice that you always seem to go back to the Ford Fiesta. Its obvious that you love that car!
Hi Thomas! After test driving so many different cars, i eventually decided to go for the VW Polo 1.4 Comfortline, silver. Picked it up on Saturday. Thanks for all the advise though! Take care..
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Thrifty
November 13, 2008 at 9:41 amI really like the new Fiesta it has great sporty looks and there is a huge improvement from the last model.