Ford has unveiled four variants of the latest-generation Fiesta hatchback – Titanium, a plush Vignale version, a sporty ST-Line variant and a chunky 'Active' crossover version – at a special event in Cologne, Germany.
The new Fiesta sports an evolutionary rather than revolutionary design. The front grille is similar to that of the latest Focus, while the headlights look like softened and shrunken versions of the outgoing Fiesta’s. Overall dimensions look slightly larger than the predecessor's, supporting earlier information that the model will offer more cabin space. Previous spy shots also indicate that rear end will showcase new horizontal tail-lights as well.
The interior of the new Fiesta is a radical departure from that of the current one. The most obvious new addition is a 'floating' infotainment interface which is much larger than the button-controlled screen in the current Fiesta. Other features on the car include Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a plush B&O PlaySound stereo.
For now, the range is crowned by a new five-door ST-Line version, which also previews how the full ST model will look. It sits on 10-spoke alloy wheels and wears sporty bumpers and side skirts, and appears slightly more toned down than the current-generation ST models.
By adding the Active and luxurious Vignale versions of the new Fiesta, Ford will be able to cast its net into a far greater pool of potential buyers. Ford hasn’t revealed much about the car’s technical specifications, but a range of small-capacity turbocharged three- and four-cylinder engines seems most probable. The Fiesta ST range-topper is likely to retain a boosted 1.6-litre engine but, like the other engines in the range, it'll produce more power than before along with lower emissions.
The carmaker says it wants to offer more personalisation choices for buyers, as well as enhance the car's engaging driving style.
In India, Ford discontinued the Fiesta sedan in September last year and currently doesn’t seem to have any plans for a replacement. The carmaker, however, does plan to give its compact SUV, the EcoSport a facelift with the changes seen on the model that made its debut internationally a few weeks ago.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
