For the past few months, I’ve been working with a car rental company and it has allowed me to test drive a lot of different vehicles. And when I say a lot, I mean a lot. Because of my experience with all these vehicles over the last few months, I now know which brands or specific models I should be avoiding (Mitsubishi) and which manufacturers delivered more than I was expecting them to.
Out of the American brands, Ford is hands down the best company to go with. It’s great to see that Ford is actually listening to what customers want rather than telling them what they need and shoving it down their throats. One of the vehicles we rent out very frequently is the Ford Fiesta. Although a little too small for my liking, it’s a great looking vehicle which is economical and affordable.
Although it’s a cute little car, the Fiesta doesn’t get my heart pumping. But put a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine into the Fiesta, and we’re in business! Ford has confirmed that the Ford Fiesta ST will be arriving on American and Canadian soil soon. The Fiesta ST is the result of collaboration between the European and American divisions. While the Europeans will be getting a 3-door hatch, North America will be getting the Ford Fiesta ST in a 5-door hatchback.
The 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine is a bit more powerful for the North American market producing an impressive 197 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque compared to Europe’s 178hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The car is apparently a blast to drive as much of the torque is available at low revs.
The Fiesta ST will be exclusively available in a six-speed manual gearbox and fuel economy of up to 34mpg (6.9lt/100km) on the highway. The suspension is also sport-tuned and the vehicle sits about 15mm lower. Handling is further enhanced with its Torque Vectoring Control system and an Electronic Stability Control with three available modes (standard, sport, and off).
On the exterior, looks are improved with an aerodynamics kit that includes bumpers, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and new front grille. The Ford Fiesta ST will also feature 17-inch allow wheels. The interior is also pretty sexy looking with new sports seats, steering wheel, and racing foot pedals.
No word yet on the pricing of the Ford Fiesta ST but unfortunately, we will not be renting these Fiesta ST’s out. I’m sure the Unfinished Man crew will be getting their hands on one of these Fiesta St’s for a detailed review. Stay tuned for that!
Gallery of the all-new Ford Fiesta ST
