New Ford Fiesta Shatters Small-Car Mold: Best Projected Miles Per Gallon, Connectivity, Performance, Personality
11/26/2012
Ford
Ford's new Fiesta, which breaks cover at the Los Angeles Auto Show, will redefine the small car with a projected best 40 mpg-plus fuel economy rating, an exciting new look, and special features and technology that make it the most fun-to-drive car of its size.
"Customers want cars that are expressive and fun while offering class-leading fuel economy," says Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. "Fiesta delivers all the excitement drivers are looking for in a car we believe will raise the bar even higher for small cars in North America.
"Our goal with this Fiesta was to take a car that was already a leader in fuel efficiency, performance, connectivity and personality, and make it even better," Fields adds.
Fuel efficiency and fun
The most dramatic and distinctive Fiesta to date will deliver the best miles per gallon among its rivals, led by Ford's patented new 1.0-liter EcoBoost((R)) engine. This landmark engine, already selected for both the Popular Mechanics 2012 Breakthrough Award and Engine Technology International's International Engine of the Year Award in Europe, is expected to deliver more than 40 mpg.
With that, Fiesta is projected to be the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid subcompact in America, and stands as a shining example of Ford's commitment to provide consumers with the most fuel-efficient cars, SUVs and trucks.
While the diminutive size of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost saves cash at the pump, it doesn't hold anything back on the road. At 123 horsepower for each liter of engine displacement (the engine's size), the 1.0-liter EcoBoost delivers more power for its size than a Lamborghini Aventador (at 108 horsepower per liter).
EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford's strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO(2) emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines. Ford's leadership with EcoBoost has resulted in more than 125 patents on the technology. Currently, more than 500,000 vehicles have this engine and by 2013 more than 1.3 million will have EcoBoost.
A triple threat of fuel-saving features - variable-displacement oil pumps, polished tappets and coded pistons - appears together for the first time in the 1.6-liter Fiesta, giving drivers maximum miles per gallon without sacrificing driving fun.
Small is smart
In addition to its new EcoBoost engine, Fiesta boasts a best-in-class suite of technologies and features that give drivers the perfect blend of a connected world and an untethered driving experience.
A new MyFord Touch((R) ) system with 6.5-inch touch screen that features enhanced voice control is now available, providing drivers more options than ever for navigation, communication and entertainment functions. Fiesta still features SYNC((R)) AppLink((TM) )capabilities pioneered on the first Fiesta, which allows drivers to access and control Ford-approved smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls while on the go, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Turn-by-turn navigation remains part of SYNC Services.
Ford's MyKey((R)) is a new feature on Fiesta, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenagers' exposure to risk at the wheel. The system allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.
"This car was built for the digital generation," says John Schneider, Ford chief engineer, Upperbody Electronics. "With Bluetooth((R)) connectivity and MP3 capabilities, tech-savvy people who use social media to be constantly connected with the world around them won't be slowed down when they get in this car.
"It has always been the belief at Ford that entry-level drivers deserve the best technology," Schneider adds. "We launched SYNC AppLink on Fiesta, and now transitioning to MyFord Touch with this new touch screen enables us to go further in our quest to give drivers the best in in-car electronics."
Built to excite the right-brain driver
Proving to be every bit as creative as its owner, the new Fiesta will offer custom exterior design graphics and sexy new color options. The redesigned exterior boasts a sporty new grille that reflects the new face of Ford.
Inside, things are just as expressive. The cell phone-inspired dashboard and available leather steering wheel and seats amplify the modern interior and entice drivers to get in the car and get on the move. A selection of ambient lighting options allows Fiesta drivers to set just the mood they want. Also available is a new Sony HD audio/satellite radio with eight premium speakers for drivers to more fully appreciate their music.
Big on safety
This continues to be a small car that is big on safety. Fiesta offers the following standard safety features:
-- AdvanceTrac((R)) with Electronic Stability Control
-- Dual-stage first-row airbags
-- Driver knee airbag
-- Side-impact airbags
-- Side-curtain airbags
-- Four-wheel anti-lock braking system
-- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
-- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
-- Child-safety rear locks
-- Anti-theft engine immobilizer
-- Improved side-impact safety capabilities
Fiesta ST pushes performance
Fiesta ST is Ford's newest contribution to the world of hot hatches.
A new high-output variant of the award-winning 1.6-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost( )engine propels Fiesta ST with an anticipated 197 horsepower and 214 lb.-ft. of torque. In comparison, Mini Cooper S makes do with 181 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft., while Chevrolet Sonic RS produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft.
Unlike the competition, Fiesta ST doesn't simply look like a performance car; it's got the guts to back it up.
Fiesta ST may be born with racing DNA, but there's no price for that performance at the pump. Available exclusively as a five-door hatchback in North America and with a six-speed manual transmission, Fiesta ST is projected to achieve up to 34 mpg.