Australia you have a new star in the compact car segment – the all-new Ford Fiesta.
Imported from Ford’s factory in Cologne, Germany, the all-new Fiesta ticks a lot of boxes – it has great driving dynamics, is sharply priced, looks nice and delivers a practical, dynamic interior. It’s contemporary and functional.
The all-new Fiesta represents generational change in the compact segment – it’s a step ahead of Toyota’s ageing Yaris and in many ways matches the segment stars Honda Jazz and Mazda2.
Where the Fiesta steals an edge over both the Honda and Mazda is the driving experience; this European Ford impressed greatly during Car Showroom’s stint behind the wheel at the national press launch where we tackled a variety of roads in and around Adelaide.
According to Beth Donovan - the credentialed and articulate American who is now Ford Australia’s Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service - the all-new Fiesta provides an insight into how future products will be planned for this country.
“The Fiesta is Ford Australia’s first global vehicle - it’s built in three continents and now sold in five; it represents a blueprint for future new product development,” Ms Donavan explained. A pointer to future Falcon directions perhaps? Global economic circumstances might dictate so.
In fact, this model is the sixth generation Fiesta launched in Europe where over 12 million have been sold over 32 years.
As part of the intensive research that was part of the Fiesta’s development, clinics were held in New York City, Paris, London, Beijing…and Sydney.
Available in three and five-door body styles, Fiesta is available in three variants – CL, LX and range-topping Zetec. Pricing starts from just $15,750.
From the outside, Zetec models can be distinguished by 16-inch alloy wheels, a bigger rear spoiler and a body kit with different bumpers and grille. Inside there is high standard trim and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Power comes from either a 1.6-litre engine (five-speed manual transmission) or 1.4-litre (four-speed automatic transmission).
Two airbags are standard on CL and LX models but an optianal $1,000 ‘Safety Pack’ brings side and curtain airbags, drivers’ knee bag and stability control (all of this is standard on the Zetec model).
Inside is a very modern and clean design with quality trim materials and multiple information and communication compatibility and connectivity including Bluetooth, USB and MP3. Ford says the centre console controls are modelled from a mobile telephone keypad as most of Fiesta’s young buyers will be familiar with that sort of layout.
Prior to starting work as Ford Australia’s President and CEO last October, Melbourne-educated Marin Burela had worked in a number of senior positions throughout the Ford world – most recently in Europe running the global Fiesta program.
“The all-new Fiesta will be the hottest property in the light car segment – it’s a stylish and dynamic car that redefines and further rejuvenates Ford’s light car lineup,” Mr Burela said.
Fiesta goes on sale nationally next month.
The Ford Fiesta launched at the 2008 Sydney International Motor Show
