Ford’s best-selling model in Europe, the
Fiesta, has just been updated in several departments. First, we have the
introduction of a mild-hybrid powertrain with 48-volt technology on both the
regular Fiesta as well as the Van variant. Second, the popular hatchback also
gained new safety and connectivity features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control
with Stop & Go and Speed Sign Recognition, or the FordPass Connect modem.
Pricing for these EcoBoost Hybrid
powertrains kicks off from £ 19,860 (US$ 25,200) in the UK, which will land you a
Fiesta Titanium model. The Fiesta’s non-hybrid engines were also updated with
the addition of the latest generation 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline unit and a
new 7-speed dual clutch automatic. As for the EcoBoost Hybrid, it’s available
in 125 PS and 155 PS guises, boasting a belt-driven
integrated starter/generator and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack.
This system provides you with up to 24 Nm of torque, increasing peak torque by up to 20 Nm above
the level available courtesy of the gasoline engine alone – resulting in a
total of 240 Nm from the 155 PS unit, and up to 50% more
torque at lower rpm. With the Fiesta Van, you only get the 125 PS mild-hybrid engine, thus replacing the old 85 PS 1.5-liter TDCi diesel unit.
However, a non-hybrid 125 PS 1.0-liter EcoBoost with a six-speed manual gearbox
is also available.
Aside from the new ACC system with Stop
& Go and Traffic Sign Recognition, the Fiesta is also available with
Perpendicular Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking, plus new
Sport and Trail selectable drive modes added to the existing Normal, Eco and
Slippery.
Meanwhile, the standard FordPass Connect
technology will allow you to remotely control a selection of vehicle features
using a mobile data signal – you can engage Door Lock Unlock, Remote Start (on
models with the 7-speed automatic), Vehicle Locator and Vehicle Status.
Last but not least, the Fiesta’s SYNC 3
infotainment software was updated and is now said to be more intuitive and
easier to use, with a new user interface boasting larger buttons for the 8-inch
touchscreen. As for the cherry on top of the sundae, there’s a new wireless
charging pad for your mobile device.
