Ford Fiesta (03-08) - Review

The cargo area is well proportioned with a capacity of one cubic metre. Comparably, both Corsavan and C2 Enterprise offer less room though 207 van can swallow more. Loading is made easier by Fiesta’s low load height. The payload varies according to the chosen engine size and ranges from 512kg to 543kg, which is ample for light-duty use. Two lashing points keep goods secure during transport. The half-length bulkhead can be specified with a screen mesh for added head protection at an extra cost.

Fiesta car was awarded four-stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. The van is untried but ought to perform similarly. All models get two front airbags, anti-lock brakes and three-point seatbelts, as well as remote central locking, an immobiliser and an anti-theft audio system. Front side airbags and a perimeter alarm are optional.

Fiesta shouldn’t cost a fortune to own; it’s frugal, hard-wearing and cheap to repair, plus insurance costs are very low. The petrol 1.3 returns about 45mpg, while the 1.4 TDCi and Sport Van both achieve over 60mpg. Fiesta is popular and therefore depreciates quicker than some of its rivals. The 207 van performs better on this front.

Fiesta is a reliable runabout. Its engines have proved to be dependable in other popular models, too. Facelifted Fiestas benefit from tougher interior plastics and should withstand wear-and-tear better.