2018 Ford Fiesta Revealed

Though quite popular internationally, the Ford Fiesta didn't perform well in the Indian market. Currently in its sixth generation, the Fiesta was introduced more than eight years ago and was long due for a generation change. Finally, Ford has introduced the all-new, seventh-generation Fiesta.

On 29 November, at an event called ‘Go Further’ in Cologne, Germany, Ford showcased the seventh-gen Fiesta to its dealers, employees and journalists. The company has introduced the new Fiesta in four trim levels – Titanium, Vignale, ST-Line and Active. The Titanium is the standard car, Vignale is a more luxurious and fashionable model, the ST-Line is the performance-inspired model (don't confuse it with Fiesta ST which is likely to be launched later) and the Active is the new Fiesta-based crossover.    

The new-gen Fiesta is based on a fine-tuned version of the current generation's B platform. In terms of design, the new Fiesta isn't entirely different. The headlights and front grille look inspired from its elder sibling, the Focus. However, it appears wider and lower than the current generation. Ford claims that the new car is more responsive and efficient, and smoother than the outgoing model.

The new Fiesta features better quality of material in the cabin, panoramic sunroof, eight-inch floating screen with SYNC 3 infotainment system, new sound system, and safety systems like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Though Ford revealed that it will offer a 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine with cylinder deactivation feature, none of the other mechanical details have been made public.

It's not known which of the trims will make their way to the Indian market and include which features if Ford decides to launch one here. However, the Titanium seems like a safe bet. With the premium hatchback market in India growing, and cars like the Hyundai i20 and Suzuki Baleno doing pretty well, Ford might just introduce the Fiesta hatchback in the country.