We review the Ford Fiesta from price to economy and all its features
The new version of the UK’s favourite small car is currently the best-selling model in the country and is earning rave reviews.
Not only is it the most stylish and sporty-looking supermini on the road – only the Mazda 2 gets close for looks – it is a revelation on the inside.
Road to recovery ... Fiesta could ride out the economic crisis
Nowhere is this more apparent than on the top-of-the-range Titanium version, finished with a burgundy and black seat trim which is co-ordinated with the dash to give it an upmarket feel.
The whole cabin has a sophisticated, modern appearance and is crammed with the equipment you would normally expect in an executive car. This includes cruise control, electronic air con and automatic headlights and wipers.
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The Fiesta remains the best handling supermini and is a really comfortable ride. This becomes even more relaxed with the latest version I’ve just tested, which features an automatic gearbox.
The auto is smooth and linked to a 1.4litre petrol engine.
It is ideal in heavy city traffic and is best for drivers not in a hurry because it lacks the power to enable you to fully enjoy the Fiesta’s great handling.
Prices for the three-door Fiesta Style start at a reasonable £10,595 but you pay a premium for the luxury of the five-door Titanium and the auto box – £14,695.
It is a lot but you know you are getting quality and handling to match a BMW Mini – and more practicality.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN BUYING A USED FORD FIESTA MK 7
Creaks, squeaks and rattles aren’t unusual, and can be very hard to pin down. One, which appears to come from the steering column can actually emanate from the rubber bush in the top-mounting on the front suspension strut.
Other potential glitches include the windscreen washers packing in (the tube gets caught in the bonnet hinge), door seals coming away from the frame and fuel filler flaps sticking shut, so the car can’t be refuelled.
There have been two recalls: in December 2011 and February 2012. The first related to the possibility of exhaust fumes getting into the cabin; the second latter to the rear suspension failing.