Ford has shed more light on the new Fiesta ST hot
hatch ahead of its European launch. The new range-topping version of the Ford
Fiesta wants to retain the crown in the hot hatch segment, promising even
bigger driving thrills along with more refinement.
The highlight is of course the engine, which is the
new 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost. Rated at 197 hp and 290 Nm of peak torque, the new turbo three-pot produces the same exact numbers
with the previous Fiesta ST200 and promises to provide a unique soundtrack.
It also features a cylinder deactivation system for
better fuel efficiency, allowing it to run on two cylinders on light throttle
loads. The engine is paired with a new active exhaust as well. Ford claims that
the new Fiesta ST is capable of a 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds (0.4 seconds
quicker than the previous ST200) and of a top speed of 232 km/h.
The hot Fiesta will also become available with an
optional mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential for better traction, as
well as a Launch Control system that’s supported by a dedicated graphic display
on the instrument cluster.
The new Ford Fiesta ST will be available in both
three- and five-door versions in Europe once it goes on sale there in a few
months, riding on standard 17-inch alloy wheels. A set of 18-inch alloys are
optional. The interior features Recaro sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering
wheel and Ford’s SYNC3 infotainment as standard, the latter with a 6.5-inch
display or an optional 8-inch display.
