Bill Pierre Ford

ON THE ROAD
 
Performance
Every engine is happy enough at low-speeds, but when you hit the highway you’ll be grateful for the extra pull of the 1.4 or 1.6 turbodiesels: they respond quicker at low revs for easier overtaking. The 1.25 petrol struggles at higher speeds, meaning the 1.4 and 1.6 are better for A-road and motorway work.  
 
Ride & handling
The Fiesta is one of the best-handling superminis around. Firm suspension controls body roll well, while there’s good grip and the steering is sharp and informative. The trade-off is a firm ride. It gets better with increased pace, but some may find it too stiff in town.
 
Refinement
Although all the controls operate with a well oiled precision, the Fiesta can’t match the class leaders for refinement. On all versions engine noise intrudes at high revs and on the motorway, while the 1.4 diesel is rowdy at all times. Wind noise is also too prevalent and the amount of road noise becomes tiring.
 
OWNERSHIP
 
Buying & owning
The Fiesta faces extremely strong competition, so Ford cannot afford for its new supermini to be anything other than very competitive. Starting prices are high, although big discounts are available. Depreciation is heavier than with the best cars in class, but about par for its closer rivals. Running costs are reasonable across the Fiesta range.  
 
Quality & reliability
The Fiesta feels solidly built, while the 2005 face-lift improved the quality of cabin plastics. It’s reassuring to note that the Fiesta put in a respectable performance in our 2005 JD Power customer satisfaction survey.
 
Safety & security
All models have standard driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes. Side and curtain ’bags are available as a cheap options package. The Fiesta came joint top of its class with the Nissan Micra in the 2003 Security Supertest; our testers could not break in within the allotted two minutes. All models have deadlocks, plus marked parts. 

IN THE CABIN
 
Behind the wheel
The Fiesta was face-lifted inside and out in late 2005. The revisions gave a more stylish look to the dash, without compromising clarity and ease of use. All the controls are bold and well placed. Not everyone will be able to get comfy, however – the driver sits very high and there’s a limited amount of seat height travel, while the steering wheel adjusts for height but not reach.  
 
Space & practicality
The Fiesta is one of the most practical superminis around. Front and rear, there’s plenty of head- and legroom, taking four adults comfortably. The boot is a useful size and shape, while the rear seats fold to extend practicality but leave a stepped load area.
 
Equipment
There are five trims (not counting the sporty Zetec S and ST): Studio, Style, Zetec, Zetec Climate and Ghia. Standard features include power steering and central locking. Style versions add a CD player, electric front windows and height adjustable driver’s seat. Zetec includes alloy wheels, front fog lights and a rear spoiler, and climate control on Zetec Climate models. Ghia cars get an alarm and leather upholstery.