Small hot Fords have always been highly sought after, especially when in the guise of a Fiesta ST.
After the last model was considered as one of the best hot hatchbacks, Ford has introduced a new version of the ST along with the latest version of the Fiesta.
But what makes this new version of the Fiesta ST tick, and how does it fair? We take a look…
What’s under the bonnet?
For the 2018 model, the Fiesta ST is fitted with a three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol – which on the face of it is a downgrade from 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine found in the previous generation. But when you did a little deeper, you’ll find the new model has 197bhp – 17bhp more than the last one – and 290Nm of torque. Together with a six-speed manual gearbox and a front-wheel drive setup, that translates to a 0-60mph time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 144mph – making it one of the faster hot compacts available.
Another advantage of this new unit is that it is more efficient than before and Ford claims that it will return 55mpg and 114g/km CO2 – which is rather good for a small performance car.
The loss of a cylinder doesn’t retract from the performance either, and this version of the ST is exciting to be behind the wheel of. The exhaust crackles and it has a really nice engine note – only adding to the sporty feel of the car.
Enquire Now on a new Ford Fiesta ST
Is it as exciting as before?
Put simply – yes, very much so. The Fiesta ST has always managed to tackle day-to-day driving with ease as it is based on the rather excellent standard Fiesta. But with that added oomph, the Fiesta ST is an absolute riot and more than holds its own against its older cousin. Coming with three driving modes, you can choose just how sporty you want the car and the steering is weighted up depending on the settings you choose. Although that element can take a while to feel normal, it suits the car’s character and makes it very fun to drive.
What kit does it come with?
Available in three trim levels, the important addition you can and should make is the Performance pack, which adds a Quaife limited slip differential for improved handling and grip. That differential works alongside the Fiesta’s torque vectoring technology, which means the wheel with the most grip gets the power it needs to help get the car through the corners.
This version of the Fiesta also gets launch control for that extra punch off the line and with the help of traction control and torque steer compensation, it’ll be a hoot both on and off the track.
For that added peace of mind, the ST is available with lots of safety equipment, including lane keeping aid, lane keeping alert, cruise control with speed limiter and traffic sign recognition – making sure you know what’s going on around you at all times.
