Ford has unveiled the all-new 2018 Fiesta ST ahead of its official launch at the 2017 Geneva motor show. Headline features for the performance-orientated Fiesta include a new 200hp three-cylinder 1.5-litre engine, adjustable drive modes and an enhanced range of personalisation options.
Click here to watch some excellent handbrake action in the video below
Increased power over previous-generation Fiesta ST
Despite featuring a smaller engine than the previous generation four-cylinder Fiesta ST, the new model develops an extra 18hp and the same 290Nm of torque. Acceleration times also show a slight improvement, with 0-62mph dropping down to 6.7 seconds.
To improve efficiency there’s also a clever new system that shuts down one of the engine’s cylinders when cruising or under light throttle load. It’s a system we’ve seen on Volkswagen Group vehicles for a few years now, but Ford claims it to be the first time such tech has been fitted to a three-cylinder engine.
As a result, CO2 emissions are expected to drop to just 114g/km, while fuel economy will also be improved.
Three switchable drive modes
Filtering down from larger Ford performance cars, such as the Focus RS, is a choice of three switchable drive modes. Normal is aimed at regular road use, while Sport is designed to deliver a sharper and more involving driving experience.
In this mode the car will sharpen engine, steering and throttle responses, while also amplifying the exhaust noise both mechanically and by pumping sound into the car using Electronic Sound Enhancement (ESE).
The final setting is Track mode. This disables the traction control and sharpens up all of the above settings to optimise the car for performance driving. A switchable electronic stability control will also give drivers a choice of three settings depending on their preference.
Torque Vectoring Control is also fitted to the Fiesta ST, and works to increase grip by applying brake force to the inside wheel when cornering, allowing the car to turn tighter and faster.
Personalise your Fiesta ST
Another new feature of the previous generation Fiesta is the ability to customise the how the interior looks. Customers will be given the choice of a range of trim elements for the gearlever, steering wheel, door pulls and a decorative dashboard spear – as well as the regular standard kit.
Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system will be fitted to the Fiesta ST, enabling users to connect their phone with either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Exlcusive 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and sporty Recaro seats are some of the other standard-kit highlights. A high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system will also be available as an option.
Deliveries in 2018
The new Ford Fiesta ST will be available from the start of 2018 in both three-door and five-door bodystyles.
Parkers will be among the first to drive this new model, so check back soon for the full 2018 Ford Fiesta ST review
