It has the same name, but this new Fiesta goes off in a different direction from the old one. This five door is longer, taller and (135kg) heavier than its namesake, which, in LX trim, used a 1.25-litre version of this carried-over, all-alloy engine.
It now needs the extra cc’s and brake-horses – and then some; our realistic measure of acceleration (from 30 to 70mph) proved one second slower than with the old 1.25 and three seconds adrift compared with the previous incarnation 1.4 (sporting 90bhp). We’re not altogether surprised, however – VW’s Polo suffers a similar fate.
The Fiesta’s fuel economy takes a more serious bashing, however – in every type of use, that extra bulk takes a heavy toll. Whatever reason you have for moving towards this version of Ford’s supermini, slashing fuel costs should not be one of them.
All this criticism is a pity because, statistics to one side, the Fiesta 1.4 excels in smoothness and ease; it pulls affably in traffic, runs along the motorway with impeccable sobriety and its gearchange is a sheer delight.
Discerning drivers will like the driving position as well. It’s better suited than most smaller cars to coping with a range of shapes and sizes.
This 1.4 rides the bumps reasonable well (even on our test car’s less-forgiving 50-Series low-profile tyres), but when it comes to a series of inviting, open bends, it’s lost some spunk. The previous version almost spoke the words, ‘Try me!’, whereas this new one responds with, ‘Must we?’ Still tidy, but less engaging.
Like the latest competition, the Fiesta has now grown away from being a truly small car – that spot continues to be occupied by Ka. Interior dimensions are mostly 3-5cm improved, and this five door is easier to enter and leave (especially in the rear). There are still door and load deck sills to negotiate, but generally, the Fiesta can now cope with days out with the family – so long as nobody is really lanky.
There are signs of skimping when it comes to rear seat folding, however, - Polo/Fabia, and especially the Honda Jazz, are much cleverer.
|
|
|
|
|
LIKES ...
|
|
- sun visors, over-mirror shield keep out sun glare
- rear head restraints recess into backrest
- excellent wind sealing
- take-away ashtray/oddments holder
- radio controls big and bold
|
|
and GRIPES
|
|
- rear load area poorly trimmed
- scuff-prone bumpers and sills
- door receptacles too slim
- wiper blind spot on driver's lower right
|
|
|
|
VERDICT
|
|
Having already sampled Fiesta’s new diesel and found it a leisurely but sweet-natured performer, we now find ourselves coming to exactly the same conclusion about this 1.4 petrol version.
Of course, it’s a bit quicker than the diesel, but then, in turn, the diesel stretches a gallon another 17 miles.
This supermini market sector is growing fast and Ford’s new contender is right up there with the best of them for everyday, low-hassle motoring – with more space inside than most. The actual driving experience doesn’t quite measure up to its predecessor’s, however, and keener types should definitely consider upgrading to the 1.6, to obtain a decent turn of speed. But if that’s more than you want to pay for the Fiesta’s space and comfort, have a good look at the Skoda Fabia instead.
|
|
|