ONE of Ford’s most popular hot hatch models, the Fiesta ST, has been reborn after an absence of five years.
The latest car is 20 per cent more powerful and economical than its predecessor, despite having a smaller engine.
The new Fiesta ST gets from rest to 62mph in 6.9 seconds and tops out at 137mph, thanks to a 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that turns out 182PS and 240Nm of torque. At the same time, it achieves an impressive 47.9mpg and 138g/km.
It’s a lot easier to put that power down on the road, too, thanks to chassis and drivetrain tweaks such as Torque Vectoring Control and a three-mode Electronic Stability Control system that provides an intermediate “sporty” setting that intervenes less without switching off completely.
The electric power steering in the ST is more direct than the system fitted to other Fiestas.
Externally, the car has a bold, black honeycomb grille and a rear diffuser. Inside, there are Recaro seats, and a Sound Symposer pipes engine noise into the cabin so the distinctive engine roar is part of the driving experience.
“The new Fiesta ST delivers remarkable levels of performance, design and quality to offer an unsurpassed driving experience,” said Juergen Gagstatter, chief programme engineer, Fiesta ST.
“Ford’s European customers are connoisseurs of the hot hatchback and the new Fiesta ST speaks directly to that passion for performance driving.” he added.
Ford Fiesta ST prices start at £16,995. Company car tax is at 18 per cent and will cost a lower rate tax payer £60 a month.
