Fun Fiesta

Ford’s all-new Global Fiesta is the perfect showcase of the success of the One Ford strategy – a global product for a global audience yet with sufficient flexibility to adapt to India’s local driving conditions The beauty of the One Ford strategy lies in its versatility. The philosophy is childishly simple yet highly effective, wherein Ford resources across the globe work as One team using One plan to achieve One goal. The end result are products that can meet the demands of a global audience while retaining the amazing ability to adapt to the local driving conditions of the markets they are sold in. The all-new Global Fiesta, which Ford launched in India as the first of the eight new products the company will introduce here by mid-decade, is a prime example. In addition to offering customers the classic Ford DNA of superior ride and enhanced driving dynamics, the all-new Ford Fiesta now offers truly global quality, smart features and safety while being environmentally responsible as well.

Looks and design

The new Global Fiesta has a good road presence, thanks to its adherence to Ford’s Kinetic Design philosophy that makes the car look contemporary and gives it a commanding stance. The design of the car is similar to a sculpture that flows seamlessly from one end to another. Clearly, this is visible in the way the front end looks. Its striking and the huge pulled back multi-element headlamps stand out. The grille is tight and thin with the huge air-dam below it. The bonnet is muscular with prominent creases running across its length. Use of chrome at places like the fog lamps, alongside the side windows, etc. adds to its looks.

In profile, the car’s prominent wheel arches and 15-inch alloy wheels make it look meaty and dynamic while the rear three quarters of the Fiesta is smart too. At the rear, the tail-lamps are small and cute and the boot gets a little integrated spoiler tip, which adds a touch of character to the car. Do not fail to notice the bumper integrated parking sensors and the rear view mirror integrated indicators – these enjoy an auto-fold function.  Overall, the new Fiesta has a futuristic design which should go well for the consumers even 4-5 years down the line. An additional benefit of this adherence to the Kinetic Design Philosophy is that the Fiesta enjoys a low drag coefficient of just 0.33! This, in turn, enhances its fuel economy.

Interiors and cabin

The Kinetic Design philosophy from the exterior is carried on inside as well. One glance is enough for you to appreciate the whole look of the fascia and the console. There is a certain degree of aggression in the design lines here as well. For starters, the twin pod speedometer console looks terrific and also houses the driver information display for functions like distance to empty, fuel economy, average speed, etc. The steering wheel has controls for various functions and also rest area for the thumbs. And one can’t help love the soft touch feel of the buttons and the same goes for the climate control and audio system. The first in class Voice Control activation is done via the left stalk behind the steering and is easy to get used to. This system allows you to control a variety of functions, from the audio system to the automatic climate control system. The Fiesta also gets Bluetooth connectivity for the audio system. The design of the audio system draws inspiration from the latest design trends in mobile phones. Below the system sits the climate control system, which works very well in humid Indian summers. In fact, it has the biggest compressor on a Fiesta yet!

There are umpteen cubby holes and places to keep your bottle / glasses, which makes it very convenient and practical for all occupants. These include 2 net pockets, 3 small cup / bottle holders, storage space under the co-driver’s seat, big door pockets, a deep glovebox, etc. In terms of interior space, this new Fiesta will feel comfortable for four full sized adults, if not five! The front seats are very supportive and the seats hug you well. The rear seat gets an arm-rest with cup-holders. A plus point due to a sloping roof is the big rear parcel shelf you get here. Ford has worked very hard on reducing the NVH levels and this car has the quietest cabin in its segment! This has been due to sound absorbent materials, acoustic lamination of the glasses etc.

Engine and transmission

The petrol engine is an all-new advanced 1.5-litre Duratec motor that features twin independent variable camshaft timing technology or Ti-VCT and generates a maximum power output of 110 bhp. It is also a highly efficient engine and carries an ARAI certified fuel economy of 17kmpl! The weight of the engine has been kept low by the use of aluminum castings for the block, cylinder head and oil pan of the engine. The petrol motor feels very refined and has enough punch for spirited driving. It also sounds sporty and at higher revs. Another positive aspect is the broad torque curve which gives it a strong low and mid-range punch, something that is very essential for city commuting.

For diesel lovers, Ford offers an all-new 1.5-litre motor in the Fiesta. This Duratorq inter-cooled and turbocharged diesel engine produces 67 bhp of maximum power and 204 Nm of peak torque but delivers an ARAI certified fuel economy of 23.5kmpl! The diesel motor is a joy to drive both in city and out on the open highways. The diesel motor also gets extensive use of aluminum to keep its weight down.

Both the engines make their world debut in the all-new Global Fiesta and are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission that has smooth and precise throws. For those who want the convenience of an automatic transmission without compromising on the fuel economy and driving feel, there is the option of the Fiesta Powershift. The vehicle also boasts class leading low NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels, thus offering a super quiet cabin.

Suspension – Ride and handling

Ford’s new EPAS or Electric Power Assist Steering replaces the conventional systems that use hydraulic pumps that sap the engine of power. This new Fiesta is also the first ever Ford car to come with EPAS. The steering feel is impressive and the electric motor adds its assist only when required. Its light nature adds to the ease of driving at slow city speeds.

The new Global Fiesta carries on the brilliant fun-to-drive legacy of Ford cars, courtesy its classic Ford DNA of enhanced driving dynamics and superior ride quality. As a result, it delivers a great combination of handling as well as ride comfort. The taut feel you get while driving the car inspires confidence at high speeds as well and changing lanes at triple digit speeds doesn’t upset the balance of the car.

Verdict

The all-new Global Fiesta was the first of the eight global products to be introduced in the Indian market and is the perfect vehicle for the tech savvy and fiercely independent and upwardly mobile individual who wishes to make a style statement with his set of wheels. The all-new Global Fiesta is aspirational yet practical and offers a superior overall package with its class leading smart equipment, quiet cabin, high fuel efficiency and appealing design.

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