From some angles, the new Ford Fiesta could be mistaken for a Maserati or an Aston Martin. The resemblance is not by mistake, but rather a proof of increasing influence of Italian design on Ford.
For Europeans, Ford Fiesta is not a new car. Fiesta was born in 1976 and has performed well in markets such as Europe, U.S., Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Venezuela, China, Taiwan and South Africa. The car did reasonably well in India as well.
Though in India, the Fiesta is considered as a sedan, the hatchback Fiesta is popular in the rest of the world. The latest Fiesta that resembles a Maserati is also a hatchback car. Currently, the Fiestas sold in India are Mark 6 versions but the latest one is Mark 7.
There are certain basic features that one expects from a Ford. Brand value, driving comfort, quality interiors, riding comfort and a contemporary design. The new Ford Fiesta is not only a package of all these expected factors, but also a notch higher than that, thanks to the lavish use of high-end technology.
From mirrors that fold upon locking the car to voice controls and a one-push all-door close button, this one brings in fresh and advanced features on all fronts. The latest Fiesta is available only in diesel version.
Into a detailed test drive report
Design
If you have ever felt that the old Fiesta was not aggressive enough in the looks department, the Maserati-inspired front grill fixes it in the latest version. The Fiesta is a fine example of how a small change, made in the right way, can make a huge difference.
Apart from the front grill, the bonnet, fenders, headlamps, tail lamp cluster and alloy wheels, are all new. The rest of the things conform to the kinetic design style characterised by smooth flowing curves.
The interior has been done up in a mixture of grey, black and aluminium. The quality of plastics has improved. Seats are good and are made of high quality fabric. Leather option is also available. The front bucket seats have raised side walls to sort of fit the passengers upper torso like a glove, and therefore could be a bit of an issue for bulky people.
Fords new voice operated Sync system has an emergency assist facility. This facility will automatically dial the assigned number in case of an emergency. This system is also capable of synching with mobile applications and displaying them on the infotainment screen. Air conditioning, mobile and stereo can also be operated with the help of this technology.
Other attractive features include electronic cruise control, electrical power steering, good quality cabin insulation and rear parking sensors. Build quality becomes evident when you close the doors. They shut with a sweet-sounding click without any trace of the rattling noise that low-gauge metal makes.
Behind the wheel
Though the engine remains the same, it has been refined and this is one of the best cars available in terms of drivability. The Fiesta has always enjoyed reputation in rally circuits and the racing DNA has been carried onto the latest version. This one can beat the existing Fiesta hands down on a race track any day. The award-winning B2E platform is known for its handling and road characteristics. The wheels (195/60 R15) and the new suspension also aid in handling while the electronic power steering is precise.
The retuned 1.5-litre diesel engine makes driving effortless. This Fiesta has got a bigger turbo charger and intercooler than the ones seen in the previous versions. The one-and-a-half litre mill produces 90 bhp and 20.4 kgm of torque. The figures are more than sufficient under most real road conditions.
The engine performance is smooth and the car has got superb mid-range thrust. Even at higher revs, the engine retains its composure and vibrations are not bothersome. However, the clutch is a bit on the stiffer side and could have been lighter. Gear shifts are crisp and the brakes have good bite.
Fuel efficiency too has improved from 23.5 km/litre from the previous versions to 25.01 in the latest one. That is a decent figure for a car of this size.
Price : Rs 9.30 lakh to Rs 11.08 lakh on road
Test drive : 9961044444