Ford’s line of thought in product development is known as ONE Ford. Essentially, Ford plans to design and develop vehicles that, without having to be reengineered for different markets, meet the differing needs, wants and expectations of customers around the world. The subject of today’s review, the Ford Fiesta, is a direct brainchild of this philosophy.
Recently launched on our market, the Ford Fiesta is a subcompact available as a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback. Both are motivated by a new 1.6-litre Duratec engine with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) that delivers 120 HP and 112 ft.-lbs. of torque. The focus in the conception of this engine was fuel economy and to reach their goals, engineers used solutions like a deceleration fuel shutoff and an engine accessory drive system that improves efficiency by reducing the energy it takes to power the air conditioner and alternator. The result is a commendable 7.1 L / 100 km city and 5.3 L / 100 km highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission; the powershift six-speed automatic transmission brings this down to 6.8 L / 100 km city and 4.9 L / 100 km highway when the Super Fuel Economy (SFE) package is chosen.
The version we are testing this week is a Lime Squeeze Metallic SES Hatchback ($19,529.00) with the five-speed manual transmission and charcoal black cloth interior with blue inserts. The only option is keyless entry and start ($500.00).
The list of standard features found in the SES is long and make this a very well rounded commuter. Heated seats will be appreciated, as is cruise control (optional on other equipment level), A/C, electronic stability control, a premium sound system and Ford’s well-designed SYNC voice-activated connectivity system.
This latest system allows one to easily link any cell phone through its bluetooth connection and use the car’s radio and speakers to allow driver or passenger to hold a conversation. Many other manufacturers have such features, but Ford’s SYNC does so in an easy and intuitive way as yet unmatched. Anyone in your fleet relying heavily on cell phone communications while driving around will be thankful for the ease of use of this voice-activated system.
Safety is also a priority of this Fiesta, offering a segment-exclusive driver’s knee airbag, developed to help reduce lower leg injuries in the event of a frontal collision. The knee airbag joins dual-stage first-row airbags, side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags.
On the road, this Fiesta is surefooted and right away shows its European origins. The structure feels stiff and solid and the suspension, firm but not rock hard, offers a good feedback. The clutch and gear selector actions work well together and easily allow a smooth transition from one gear to the next. The tight turning circle will be greatly appreciated by users of your fleet involved in a lot of tight city parking.
Two minor aspects may need some tweaking on Ford’s side. One quickly looks for an armrest, in part for its functionality in supporting one’s arm, but also to compensate for a lack of storage. Door pockets are small and so is the glovebox. An optional armrest will soon be available and will be a wise choice to help your drivers keep the inside tidy. The other aspect is rear visibility being partially limited by the slightly sloping roofline.
The Fiestas sold in North America are built at Ford’s manufacturing facility in Cuautitlan, Mexico and starts in S Sedan trim at $12,999.
Snapshot 2011 Ford Fiesta SES Hatchback
MSRP $19 529.00
As tested $20 879.00
Fuel consumption (L/100 km)
Manual: 7.1 city / 5.3 highway
Automatic: 6.8 city / 4.9 highway
Strengths
Frugal
Well equipped
SYNC voice-activated connectivity system
Philippe Crowe
