Ford Fiesta

Ford Fiesta

Ford Fiesta sixth generation (2008)
Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	1976-present
Class	Supermini
Layout	FF layout
Engine(s)	all Inline-4

The Ford Fiesta is a front wheel drive subcompact/supermini car manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company and built in Europe, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Venezuela, China, India and South Africa. The model is marketed worldwide, including Japan, Australasia and the Americas.

By 2010, the sixth-generation (Mark VI)^[1] Fiesta had been introduced worldwide, including in the United States and Canada — making it the first Fiesta model to be sold in North America since 1980.

The Fiesta has sold over twelve million units since 1976.^[1]

History

In the early 1970s, European demand from consumers for small cars was rising. Even Ford's smallest model, the Escort, was a conventional front-engined, rear wheel drive car; yet competitors were launching smaller, front wheel drive cars, like the Fiat 127 and the Peugeot 104. The effects of the 1973 energy crisis were also increasing demand for smaller cars. BMC (which had since merged into British Leyland) had entered the mini-car market with its Mini in 1959, while the Rootes Group had launched the ultimately less successful Hillman Imp in 1963, but times had moved on and people looking for small cars now wanted practical hatchbacks instead of conventional saloons. GM had entered the modern supermini market with its conventional Opel Kadett City/Vauxhall Chevette three-door hatchback twins early in 1975.

The original plans for the "Bobcat" was actually signed off by Henry Ford on 15 September 1972, more than a year before the Arab-Israeli War and the oil price surge that it triggered, so the project is best seen as a response to competitors than as a direct response to the oil crisis.^[2] The plans specified a desire that the new car cost US$100 less to produce than the Ford Escort.^[3] In addition, the car was to have a wheelbase longer than that of the Fiat 127, but with overall length shorter than that of Ford's Escort. The final proposal was put together by Tom Tjaarda at Ghia.

Bobcat was approved in autumn 1973, with Ford's engineering centres in Cologne and Dunton (Essex) collaborating. Customer clinics were held across Europe, targeting female buyers in particular.

Ford estimated that 500,000 Fiestas a year would be produced, and built an all-new factory near Valencia, Spain; a transaxle factory near Bordeaux, France; factory extensions for the assembly plants in Dagenham, Essex, and Saarlouis, Germany. Final assembly also took place in Valencia.^[4]

Codenames

When Ford of Europe began to design the car, the design proposals were named Iris, Beta, The Deutschlander (from Ford's Cologne studios), Mini-Mite, and the Blue Car (from Ghia). Codenames for the Fiesta prototype included Torino, but it became Project Bobcat.

The shortlisted names for the new car designed by the project Bobcat team (headed by Mr Trevor Erskine) were Amigo, Bambi, Bebe, Bravo, Bolero, Cherie, Tempo, Chico, Fiesta, Forito, Metro, Pony and Sierra. Despite more board votes for "Bravo", Henry Ford II personally overruled them and named the car "Fiesta". Several of the shortlisted names were later used on other cars, including "Sierra", which was introduced on the Cortina replacement in 1982, and Tempo which was used on a Ford small car in the United States market. Ironically the "Metro" nameplate was introduced by rival manufacturer British Leyland for the similar-sized Austin Metro in 1980.

The name Fiesta belonged to General Motors at the time; however, it was freely given for Ford to use on their new B-class car. After years of speculation by the motoring press about Ford's new car, it was subject to a succession of carefully crafted press leaks from the end of 1975. A Fiesta was on display at the Le Mans 24 Hour Race in June 1976, and the car was launched and on sale in France and Germany in September 1976: to the frustration of UK dealerships righthand drive versions only began to appear in the UK in January 1977.^[5]

Fiesta Mark I (1976–1983): The first generation

Ford Fiesta Mark I

Production	1976–1983
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Dagenham, United Kingdom Cologne, Saarlouis, Germany
Body style(s)	3-door hatchback 3-door panel van
Engine(s)	Petrol: Kent/Valencia: 957 cc (58.4 CID) 40/45 PS, 1117 cc (68.2 CID) 53 PS, 1298 cc (79.1 CID) 66 PS, 1597 cc (97.5 CID) 84 PS
Transmission(s)	Ford BC4 4-speed manual gearbox
Wheelbase	2,286 mm (90.0 in)
Length	3,565 mm (140.4 in)
Width	1,567 mm (61.7 in)
Height	1,360 mm (54 in)

Mechanically, the Ford Fiesta followed tradition, with an end-on four-speed manual transmission mounted to a new version of the Ford Kent OHV engine, dubbed "Valencia" after the brand new Spanish factory in Almussafes, Valencia, developed especially to produce the new car. Ford's plants in Dagenham, England, and Saarlouis and Cologne (from 1979) in Germany, also manufactured Fiestas. To cut costs and speed up the research and development, many modified Kent engines destined for the Fiesta were tested in Fiat 127s. This also allowed covert road testing across Europe.

It was only the second hatchback mini-car to have been built in the UK at this stage, being launched a year after the Vauxhall Chevette, but a year before the Chrysler Sunbeam and four years before the Austin Metro. The millionth Fiesta was produced on 9 January 1979.

The car was available in Europe with a 957 cc (58 CID) I4 (high compression and low compression options), either a 1.1 and 1.3 L OHV petrol engines and in Base, Popular, L, GL (1978 onward), Ghia and S trim, as well as a van. The U.S. Mark I Fiesta was built in Cologne, Germany but to slightly different specifications; U.S. models were Base, Decor, Sport, and Ghia, the Ghia having the highest level of trim.^[6] These trim levels changed very little in the Fiesta's three year run in the USA, from 1978-80. All U.S. models featured the more powerful 1.6 L Kent (97 CID; 1597cc) inline-four engine (fitted with a catalytic converter and air pump for lower emissions), energy-absorbing bumpers, side-marker lamps, round sealed-beam headlamps, improved crash dynamics and fuel system integrity as well as optional air conditioning (a/c was not available in Europe). The Ford Escort replaced the Fiesta in the U.S. in 1981.

A sporting derivative (1.3 Supersport) was offered in Europe in 1980, effectively to test the market for the similar XR2 introduced one year later, which featured a 1.6 L version of the same engine. Black plastic trim was added to the exterior and interior. The small square headlights were replaced with larger circular ones resulting in the front indicators being moved into the bumper to accommodate the change. With a quoted performance of 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 9.3 seconds and 105 mph (169 km/h) top speed, the XR2 hot hatch became a cult car beloved of boy racers throughout the 1980s.

Minor revisions appeared across the range in late 1981, with larger bumpers to meet crash worthiness regulations and other small improvements in a bid to maintain showroom appeal ahead of the forthcoming Mk 2.

In 1978, the Fiesta overtook the Vauxhall Chevette as Britain's best selling supermini, but in 1981 it was knocked off the top spot by British Leyland's Austin Metro and was still in second place at the end of 1982.

Mk I specifications

Crayford convertibles

In 1982, coachbuilders Crayford produced the Fiesta "Fly" — a convertible version of the Mk 1 Fiesta 1300 Ghia, and a total of just fifteen vehicles were produced. The following year the more powerful 1600 Mk 1 Fiesta XR2 was the donor car, and a further seven convertibles were produced. The conversion involved welding the boot shut.

Fiesta Mark II (1983–1989): The second generation

Ford Fiesta Mark II

Production	1983–1989
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Dagenham, United Kingdom Cologne, Saarlouis, Germany
Body style(s)	3-door hatchback 3-door panel van
Engine(s)	Petrol: Kent/Valencia: 957 cc (58.4 CID) 45 PS, 1117 cc (68.2 CID) 49-53 PS, 1298 cc (79.1 CID) 66 PS; CVH: 1298 cc (79.1 CID) 69 PS, 1368 cc (83 CID) 71 PS, 1597 cc (97.4 CID) 96 PS; Diesel: 1608 cc (98.1 CID) 54 PS
Transmission(s)	Ford BC4 & BC5 4- or 5-speed manual gearbox, continuously variable transmission
Wheelbase	2,286 mm (90.0 in)
Length	3,565 mm (140.4 in)
Width	1,567 mm (61.7 in)
Height	1,360 mm (54 in)

The Fiesta Mark II appeared towards the end of summer 1983 with a revised front end and interior, and a bootlid mirroring the swage lines from the sides of the car. The 1.3 L OHV engine was dropped, being replaced in 1984 by a CVH powerplant of similar capacity, itself superseded by the lean burn 1.4 L two years later. 957 and 1117 cc engines continued with only slight alterations and for the first time a Fiesta diesel was produced with a 1600 cc engine adapted from the Escort.

The XR2 model was thoroughly updated with a larger bodykit. It also featured a 96 bhp (72 kW) 1.6 L CVH engine as previously seen in the Ford Escort XR3, and five-speed gearbox (also standard on the 1.3 L CVH models). The engine was replaced by a lean-burn variant in 1986 which featured a revised cylinder head and carburettor; it was significantly cleaner from an environmental viewpoint but was slightly less powerful as a result (95 bhp (71 kW)).

The new CTX continuously variable transmission, also fitted in the Fiat Uno, eventually appeared early in 1987 on 1.1 models only.

The Mk 2 featured a different dashboard on the lower-series trim levels compared to the more expensive variants.

The face-lifted, facing competition from the Vauxhall Nova and Austin Metro, was one of the UK's top supermini. In its best-ever year, 1987, over 150,000 Fiesta models were sold in the UK,^[3] though it missed out on first place in the sales charts to the Ford Escort.

The Mk 2 Fiesta lives on as the donor vehicle for Quantum Sports Cars' 2+2 convertible^[7] with several hundred manufactured at the factory in Stourbridge before production moved to Kingsbridge.

Mk II specifications

1984 Ford Fiesta Mk2 XR2.

Fiesta Mark III (1989–1997): The third generation

Ford Fiesta Mark III

Production	1989–1997
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Dagenham, United Kingdom Cologne, Saarlouis, Germany
Body style(s)	3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door panel van 3-door 'high cube' panel van
Platform	Ford B platform
Engine(s)	Petrol: Kent/HCS: 999 cc (61.0 CID) 45 PS, 1118 cc (68.2 CID) 50-55 PS, 1289 cc (78.7 CID) 60 PS; CVH: 1392 cc (84.9 CID) 71-75 PS, 1596 cc (97.4 CID) 104 PS, 1596 cc Turbo (97.4 CID) 133 PS; Zetec: 1598 cc (97.5 CID) 90 PS, 1796 cc (109.6 CID) 105-130 PS; Diesel: 1753 cc (107.0 CID) 60 PS
Transmission(s)	Ford IB4 & IB5 4- or 5-speed manual gearbox, continuously variable transmission
Related	Ford Ka Ford Courier

The introduction of the Fiesta Mark III, codenamed BE-13, included a five-door version.

This model had the longest production life of any Fiesta to date, achieved the highest yearly sales of any Fiesta in the early 1990s, and underwent numerous changes in its life. For example, the car had four different versions of standard steering wheels during its lifetime (the launch wheel, then updated in 1992, 1994 and 1995) and the most changes to standard UK trim levels of any Fiesta (examples across the years show the large line-up: Popular, Popular Plus, L, LX, Ghia, 1.6S, XR2i, RS Turbo, RS1800, Fiesta, Louisiana, DL, SX, Azura, Si, Classic, Classic Quartz, Classic Cabaret, Saphire). A Fiesta-derived van, the Ford Courier, was launched in 1991.

Fuel injection engines became available in 1991. Major changes were introduced to the range in 1994: steering wheel airbags were made standard across the range, a move not echoed by arch-rival Vauxhall's Corsa until November 2000. Major structural improvements were made to improve safety, as well as a new immobiliser being fitted to petrol models. The UK trim line-up was also simplified to Fiesta, LX, Si (which also had a new bumper and seat designs) and Ghia. Revised door mirrors were also fitted, as were a line-up of fresh wheel trim designs.

As for sports models, the XR2i was launched in 1989^[1] with an 8v CVH (compact valve head) engine but was replaced by a Zetec 16v version in 1992, which also saw the RS Turbo being supplanted by the RS1800 — as the CVH engine was being phased out, the RS1800 shared its 1.8 L Zetec fuel-injected engine with the 130 PS (96 kW; 130 hp) version of the then-current Ford Escort XR3i and had a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h). The XR2i name was also dropped in early 1994, and the insurance-friendly "Si" badge appeared in its place on a slightly less sporty-looking model with either the 1.4 L PTE (a development of the CVH) or the 1.6 L Zetec engine.

Trim levels were again revised in October 1995, to coincide with the introduction of the Mk 4 Fiesta: the range was marketed as the "Fiesta Classic" from 1995 until production finally ceased in 1997.

Mk III specifications;

Fiesta Mark IV (1995–2002): The fourth generation

Ford Fiesta Mark IV

Also called	Mazda 121, Mazda Soho
Production	1995–2002
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Dagenham, United Kingdom Cologne, Saarlouis, Germany São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Body style(s)	3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door panel van 3-door 'high cube'panel van
Platform	Ford B platform
Engine(s)	Petrol: Kent/Endura-E: 1299 cc (79.3 CID) 50-60 PS; Zetec-SE: 1242 cc (75.8 CID) 75 PS, 1388 cc (84.7 CID) 90 PS; Diesel: 1753 cc (107.0 CID) 60 PS; Endura-D: 1753 cc (107.0 CID) 75 PS
Transmission(s)	Ford IB5 5-speed manual gearbox, continuously variable transmission
Related	Ford Ka Ford Puma Ford Ikon

The all new Fiesta Mark IV (internal code name was BE91) was launched in 1995^[1] and became Britain's best selling car from 1996-1998.

The model used the chassis of the Mk 3 car, but most components were heavily revised, including a new suspension system, which gave the Fiesta one of the best handling abilities in its class.

The model featured a range of new Zetec engines, available in 1.25 and 1.4 L forms, the 1.8 diesel engine was slightly modified for the Mk 4, now marketed as the "Endura DE". The 1.3 L OHV engine was carried over from the Mk 3. As well as the major changes to the chassis, the Mk 4 also benefited from a new interior and exterior styling, including a soft painted instrument panel for the first year of production, albeit maintaining a similar dimensions to the Mk 3. The Mk 4 Fiesta shared a production line and design with the Mazda 121, which sold in much lower volumes and was not produced for the British market after 1999.

In Brazil a 1.0-litre version was available, in L, LX and GL trim levels; it was sold in Argentina and Chile. The UK trim level line up had relatively few changes over the years: (1995, Encore, LX, Si, Ghia; 1996, Ghia X added as range-topper; 1998, Si replaced by Zetec, petrol LX models briefly renamed Zetec LX, Ghia X models axed; 1999, Finesse added between Encore and Zetec).

In 1997, the Mk 4 was introduced into South Africa. This is the first time the Fiesta entered the South African vehicle market. Only one engine was available, the 1.3 L Endura E. It subsequently won the South African Car of the Year award. The 1.3 L engine was replaced with the 1.4 L PTE (CVH) engine in 1999.

The Mk 4 was not sold in North America. The German-built Ford Puma was based on the Mk 4, sharing its underpinnings. For this reason the 1.7 VCT engine from the Ford Puma has become an extremely popular engine swap into the Mk 4 and the Mk 5 fiesta. Thus giving the popular hatchback an extra 100 cc over the previous largest engine size available, variable cam timing and better ratio gearbox while still retaining a factory finish as all components are a direct swap.

Mk IV specifications

Fiesta Mark IV (1999–2002): facelift

Ford Fiesta Mark IV facelift (2000) 5-door

Ford Fiesta Mark IV facelift (2000) 3-door

In 1999, the Fiesta received a minor facelift^[6][8] aimed at giving the car a New Edge look, with a Focus-inspired face, new bumpers and wheel designs. Facelift known as Mark V in United Kingdom and elsewhere.

Other changes include 1.6i 16V Zetec engine, fitted to the new Zetec S model, and later available in Ghia and Freestyle trims. New features such as side airbags and (after launch) the reintroduction of leather trim. An environmentally-friendly 'E-Diesel' model for 2001, with CO₂ emissions of 120 g/km. The Lynx 1.8 TDDi engine (also introduced after launch).

The Mk IV facelift^[8] was the last generation of Fiesta to be built at Dagenham in England. Its internal code name was still BE91. The UK trim level line-up consisted of: 1999, Encore, Finesse, Zetec, LX, Ghia; 2000, Zetec S added; 2001, E-Diesel added at bottom of range, Flight and Freestyle respectively replace Finesse and Zetec.

In South Africa the facelift used the Port Elizabeth-built 1.3 and 1.6 L Rocam engines instead of the European Sigma 16-valve engines.

This vehicle was sold in India as Ford Ikon.

The Zetec S

The Zetec S was the highest Fiesta trim, and although its 1.6 16v Sigma engine was available in other Fiestas (such as the Freestyle) the Zetec S pushed out 102 bhp (76 kW; 103 PS), and had major alterations to the suspension, with stiffer anti-roll bars and uprated brakes shared with the Puma.

The Zetec S was never developed for outright straight line speed. The main aim of the Fiesta is to be a small but nimble family hatchback.

The Zetec S Mk 5 facelift^[8] has a sizeable following, with many websites dedicated to the vehicle. Most notably is ZSOC, the Zetec S Owners Club (www.zsoc.com).

There is also a tuning culture devoted to this model, with reputable companies such as Milltek Sport, Lofty-Build and Shawspeed developing performance parts solely for the Sigma engine.

This model formed the basis of the Ford Ikon (code name C195), which is a four-door Saloon designed for India, where Ford was now producing cars in a joint venture with Mahindra. The Ikon was also introduced in other developing countries, such as Brazil (where it is known as the Fiesta Sedan), South Africa, Mexico and China, where saloons (sedans) are preferred to hatchbacks. They are extremely reliable, and became one of Ford's successes. There were also four truck variants, the simplest being the "Fiesta Van" which was a three-door hatchback with the rear quarter windows blanked over and the rear seat omitted. Another van with a boxy rear body and stretched wheelbase used the Courier nameplate and formed the basis of two pickup models, one with the short doors of the 5-door hatchback and small quarterlights in the style of larger extended cab pickups, made in South Africa; and another with the 3-door's longer doors and no quarter windows, made in Brazil.

The Fiesta was still Britain's best-selling supermini in 2001, by which time it was making use of a design over a decade old (though heavily updated visually and mechanically). In three-door form, it was sold alongside the Mk 5 Fiesta from April to December 2002.

Mk IV facelift specifications

Fiesta Mark V (2002–2008):The fifth generation

Ford Fiesta Mark V

Production	2002–2008 (Brazil 2002–)
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Cologne, Saarlouis, Germany Camaçari, Brazil Valencia, Venezuela Chennai, India
Body style(s)	3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback 3-door panel van
Platform	Ford B3 platform
Engine(s)	Petrol: Duratec: 1299 cc (79.3 CID) 60 PS; Zetec-SE: 1242 cc (75.8 CID) 75 PS, 1398 cc (79.3 CID) 80 PS , 1596 cc (97.4 CID)100 PS; Duratec 20: 1998 cc (121.9 CID)150 PS; Diesel: Duratorq DLD-414 1398 cc (79.3 CID) TDCi 68 PS; Duratorq DLD-416 1560 cc (95.2 CID) TDCi 90 PS (2005-on)
Transmission(s)	Ford IB5 5-speed manual gearbox, 4-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase	2,486 mm (97.9 in) Brazil: 2,488 mm (98.0 in)
Length	3,918–3,924 mm (154.3–154.5 in) Brazil Hatchback: 3,930 mm (155 in) Brazil Sedan: 4,221 mm (166.2 in) Trail: 4,030 mm (159 in)
Width	1,685 mm (66.3 in) Brazil Hatchback: 1,903 mm (74.9 in)
Height	1,464–1,468 mm (57.6–57.8 in) Brazil Hatchback: 1,451 mm (57.1 in) Trail: 1,550 mm (61 in)
Curb weight	1,096–1,178 kg (2,420–2,600 lb)
Related	Ford Fusion Ford Ecosport Ford Figo Mazda2

2005 Ford Fiesta ST

On April 1, 2002, the all new five-generation car was unveiled, with no genetic links to the 1976 original. Of this Fiesta Mark V, most engines were carried over from the previous Fiesta, but renamed "Duratec" with the "Zetec" tag used for the sportier models in place of the previous Si. Trim levels available initially were Finesse, LX, Zetec and Ghia, with limited edition variants soon following. The Mk 5 was also the first Fiesta to feature the Anti-lock Braking System and passenger airbags as standard. The fifth generation know as Mark VI in United Kingdom and elsewhere.

Engines available include 1.25, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6 L, 2.0 L petrol (gasoline), plus 1.4 8v and 1.6 16v Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesels built in a joint venture with PSA.

This was also the first Fiesta to be sold in Asia and Australasia (all 1.6 L LX 3dr/5dr, Zetec 3dr, Ghia 5dr), replacing the Kia-based Festiva. In Brazil and Argentina, a Fiesta Saloon version was introduced in late 2004. A similar Fiesta Saloon model, with a different front end, was released in India in late 2005. Although the Mk 5 Fiesta was ergonomically and mechanically more advanced than any previous Fiesta generation, it was criticized for being too dull and 'heavy' looking. However, the Mk 6 facelift came with an improved exterior.

South American 2008 Fiesta Facelift

Fiesta South America

In Brazil, the engine options also include 1.0 L 8v Flex and 1.6 L 8v Flex engines called Rocam, that use a mixture of ethanol/gasoline. The internal codename of this model is B256 (5-door) and B257 (3-door). In other Mercosur countries the Fiesta features a 1.6 L 98 hp (73 kW) SOHC Zetec engine has a standard with the choice of either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. There is also a 1.4 L 68 hp (51 kW) diesel engine available. The South American market Fiesta was facelifted in early 2007 as a 2008 model, with new rectangular headlights and grille. And again, in early 2010 the Fiesta was facelifted as a 2011 model, with new headlights and grille, very similar to those on the mark VI Fiesta available in other markets around the world, but keeping all other features nearly the same as the previous model. Its name varies from country to country, called "Fiesta One" in Argentina, "Fiesta Move" in Venezuela, and simply Fiesta in Brazil.^[9][10][11]

Fiesta ST

This is a performance model Fiesta. It includes a 2.0 L Duratec petrol engine rated 150 PS (110 kW; 150 hp) in standard form, with top speeds of up to 130 mph (210 km/h) and hopes to relive the success of the XR2. To differentiate it from the standard Fiesta, it also has visual enhancements, including 17 in (43 cm) alloy wheels, different front and rear bumpers, side skirts, body colour handles and bump strips, partial leather seats and a ST logo on the steering wheel.

In Australia, the Fiesta ST was sold as the Fiesta XR4. To stay in line with all sports model Fords sold in Australia it received the 'XR' badging, instead of the 'ST' badging used in Europe.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show.^[12]

Fiesta RallyeConcept

This is a British 3-door concept car designed by Ford RallyeSport and Ford Design Europe, designed for the Super 1600 rally. The 1.6 L Duratec engine was rated 200 bhp (150 kW; 200 PS). It includes four-two-one Arvin Meritor exhaust, 6-speed Hewland sequential gearbox, MacPherson strut front and twist-beam rear suspensions, 15-spoke magnesium wheels with 18" Pirelli P-Zero tyres.

The car was unveiled at the Birmingham Auto Show.^[13]

Fiesta RS concept

This is a concept model based on the 2002 Fiesta RallyeConcept. It includes many of the RallyeConcept Fiesta features such as the cooling vents in the front bumper, deep side rockers, white ceramic-coated brake calipers and exhaust tips, and a large rear spoiler. It also includes 18 inch alloy wheels with low-profile tyres, extended wheel arches, and lowered and stiffened suspension. The engine is rated at over 180 bhp (130 kW).^[14]

Fiesta Mark V (2005–2008): facelift

2007 Front Facelift Fiesta Zetec-S

2007 Rear Facelift Fiesta Zetec-S

2007 Front Facelift Fiesta Style

In November 2005, a revised version of the Mk 5 Fiesta went on sale, also known as the Mk 5 facelift. A number of cosmetic changes were introduced: front and rear lights featured new detailing (known as nipple lights), and bumpers, side mouldings and door mirrors were altered. A bright new colour palette was introduced. Facelift known as Mark 6.5 in the UK, or Mark 7.0 elsewhere (mistakenly), as this was simply a revised version of the Mark 6.0 and not a completely new car.

Inside, the dashboard featured both a new design and better quality soft touch materials, following criticisms of the hard, cheaply textured original. A new analogue instrument display features in a style similar to the Mk 2 Ford Focus.

New technology was made available, including power folding mirrors, automatic and 'home-safe' headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, Bluetooth with voice control, Trip computer, MP3 player connectivity and the Electronic Stability Program.

The changes had immediate effects on sales. After years being outsold by Vauxhall's Corsa, among others, in February 2006 Ford announced sales in the preceding month were up 25% on January 2005 for the previous model. Furthermore, the Fiesta captured the title of Britain's most popular supermini in both 2006 and 2007, for the first time since 2001.^[15]

In the UK, the car is available in Studio, Style, Style Climate, Zetec, Zetec Climate, Zetec S, ST and Ghia trim levels with what was called a 'Tech Pack' available to all trim levels above the Style Climate, this featured the power folding mirrors, automatic wipers, automatic and home safe lights and an advanced trip computer.

In 2007, more limited editions were added — the Fiesta Zetec Blue, and (following on from the hugely successful Fiesta Zetec S "Anniversary" edition), the Fiesta Zetec S 'Celebration'. In 2008, following in this tradition, the Fiesta Zetec S Red was added, as well as an ST500 model.

Limited editions

The Zetec S "Anniversary" was a limited (400 cars) edition based on the Zetec S and included a Radian Yellow body, chequered roof, black mirrors and door handles, tinted glass, 16 in (41 cm) alloy wheels, black roof spoiler, sports seats, leather trim, an alarm, and an iPod socket.^[16]

The car went on sale in the UK on March 2007 for £12,595. Despite the name suggests, Ford Fiesta was 31 years old when the anniversary model was released.^[17]

The Zetec S "Celebration" was a limited (400 cars) edition based on the Zetec S and included a Celebration Green body, black and white chequered roof decal, unique identity number, chequered scuff plates and mats, full 'Ebony Haze' leather interior, privacy glass and Panther Black door mirrors, bodyside mouldings, roof spoiler, tailgate handle, 16 in (41 cm) alloy wheels, air conditioning, trip computer, electric windows, CD player with portable music connection socket, sports front seats and lowered sports suspension.

The car went on sale in the UK for £12,595.^[18]

The Zetec S Red was a limited (500 cars) edition based on the Zetec S and included a Colorado Red body, black and white chequered roof decal, dark privacy glass on the rear windows, panther black door mirrors, door handles, bodyside mouldings, roof spoiler and tailgate handle; Quickclear heated front windscreen, ebony leather seats, 16 in (41 cm) alloy wheels, air conditioning and heated electrically-operated door mirrors.

The car went on sale in the UK for £13,000.^[19]

Fiesta ST

In 2008, Ford offered Mountune Performance options for Fiesta ST vehicles, available at specialist British Ford dealers beginning in March 2008. It was developed by Roush Technologies Ltd, which owns the Mountune Racing motorsport brand. Mountune Performance Stage 1 (£1,435) includes high flow catalyst and tubular manifold, and re-calibration of the engine to produce 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp). Mountune Performance Stage 2 package (£1,838) adds new camshafts and valve springs to the basic package to deliver 185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp).^[20]

The ST 500 was a limited production (500 vehicles) model of the Fiesta ST. It includes 17 in (43 cm) 11-spoke black alloy wheels, red brake callipers and carbon fibre pattern interior trim. The interior also features a Sony audio system and ebony leather heated seats. The vehicle cost £15,000.^[21]

Mk V specifications

Sales figures

In 2002, it was the fifth best selling new car in the UK, but was ranked third in the supermini charts after the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 206. It claimed the top spot in its sector in 2006.

The Fiesta is one of Brazil's best-selling vehicles, selling around 5,000 units per month. From September 2002 to April 2007, more than 336,000 units have been sold, outselling its competitors: Chevrolet Corsa (183,000 in the same period) and Renault Clio (122,267). Ford Brazil also makes a Fiesta Sedan, which has sold 113,000 units since its launch in 2004.

Marketing

Since the launch of the 2005+ model, the advertising motto has been "StupidDogbot, CleverFiesta", with the car showing a new gadget, while the robotic dog does something stupid; e.g. the Fiesta showing MP3 connectivity, while the Dogbot sticks its head into an old record player.

The September 2008 advert for the UK-spec Fiesta used Transient by Pluxus as backing track.

Strategy for India

While Fiesta continued to impress people all over the globe, Ford had different plans for the Indian market. Ford engineers in Melbourne, Australia, designed a car from scratch specifically for the Indian market and badged it as Fiesta (2005).

This sedan was sold with two engine options, 1.4 Diesel (TDCI) and 1.4/1.6 Petrol. The 1.6 Petrol version was marketed for its acceleration and performance to keep it competitive with other car makers. The Diesel version saw much success as its main selling point was the fuel efficiency. Ford test delivered a whopping 30+km/L. Since cost of fuel was rising this was the right time for Ford to showcase its turbocharged direct-injection diesel technology. Ford claims to have sold more diesel variants than its petrol ones.

Recently Ford gave some minor facial uplift to the well sold Fiesta and also reworked on safety features. Dual Airbag was included because the competitors the Suzuki SX4 and Hyundai Verna had this and other safety features.

Ford has also introduced the 1.4 diesel engine of the Fiesta into the Ikon, a B category sedan from Ford. Fiesta plans to relaunch a 1.6 L Diesel variant to compete with other cars in this segment. Ford currently manufactures and sells the fifth generation Fiesta as the Ford Figo.

Fiesta Mark VI (2008–):The sixth generation

Ford Fiesta Mark VI

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	2008–
Assembly	Almussafes, Spain Nanjing, China Cologne, Germany Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico Rayong, Thailand Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico[22][23] Valencia, Venezuela
Body style(s)	3-door Hatchback 5-door Hatchback 4-door Sedan 2-door Van
Platform	Ford global B-car platform
Engine(s)	1.4L I4 1.6L I4 1.25L I4 1.4L Diesel I4 1.6L Diesel I4
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed PowerShift
Wheelbase	2,489 mm (98.0 in) Van: 2,487 mm (97.9 in)
Length	Sedan: 173.6 in (4409.4 mm) 2011– Hatchback: 160.1 in (4066.5 mm) 2008–2010: 3,950 mm (156 in) Van: 3,917 mm (154.2 in)
Width	1,722 mm (67.8 in) Van: 1,683 mm (66.3 in)
Height	2011–: 58.0 in (1473.2 mm) 2008–2010: 1,481 mm (58.3 in) Van: 1,467 mm (57.8 in)
Curb weight	1,041 - 1,092 kg (Petrol), 1,086 - 1,100 kg (Diesel)
Related	Mazda2

2009–2010 Ford Fiesta (WS) Zetec 5-door hatchback (Australia)

The sixth generation, or Ford Fiesta Mark VI,^[24] was shown in concept form as the Ford Verve at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007 and is marketed in principal European markets (including Germany) ^[25] as well as Great Britain, Australia and the United States. Being completely based on the Ford's new global B-car platform. The sixth generation is known as Mark VII in United Kingdom.^[26]

Fiesta sales for Canada began in March 2010 for model year 2011.^[27] The 5-door hatchback will also be sold in Mexico starting 2011.^[28]

Equipment

Ford's Convers+ menu system, as seen on the Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy, and complemented by steering wheel button controls, will be available for the first time. Ford anticipates that over 85% of Fiesta orders will feature such a multifunction display. Also available for the first time will be keyless entry with 'Ford Power' starter button, reach and rake adjustable steering wheel, electric power steering, and a USB port for portable music players. Ford Easyfuel, the capless refueling system recently introduced with the Ford Mondeo, will also be a feature, while 'ambient lighting,' casting a soft red glow over the interior, will be an option. For the 2011 US market model, the Ford Sync in-car communications and entertainment system will be available as an option.

UK trim levels for the new Fiesta have now been revealed, progressing through Studio, Edge, ECONetic, Zetec, Zetec S, Titanium and Titanium Individual.

ECOnetic model

In 2008 Ford revealed details of an ECOnetic model, which Ford stated would emit 98g/km of carbon dioxide. The car was launched in 2009. It uses the 1.6 Duratorq TDCi engine, but with an added diesel particulate filter. The Fiesta ECOnetic achieves its environmental credentials through weight loss and aerodynamic adjustments, and its emission figure exempts the car from UK vehicle excise duty. The ECOnetic gets an estimated fuel consumption of 65 mpg_-US (3.6 L/100 km; 78 mpg_-imp).^[29] When tested on the highway mileage and emissions test schedules, on which hybrids are designed to perform well,^[30] the ECOnetic outperforms the Toyota Prius.^[31] The model will not be available in the U.S. because, as Business Week noted, the company "doesn't believe it could charge enough to make money on an imported ECOnetic" and doesn't think it would sell enough of the model (350,000/year) to justify the $350 million in upgrades required at their Mexico plant to manufacture it in North America.^[29]

Body styles

There are 4 body styles, including 3 and 5-door hatchbacks, 4-door sedan, and 2-door van. They are sold separately depending on the country.

• 5-door hatchback - Sold globally.
• 4-door sedan - Originally available in North American market, later sold in most parts of Asia.
• 3-door hatchback - Sold in Europe, Australasia, and small parts of Asia such as Singapore.
• 2-door van - Sold only in Europe.

Powertrain

The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi with 75 PS (55 kW; 74 hp) is sold instead of, in some countries alongside with the 1.4TDCi.

The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi with 212 N·m (156 lb·ft) torque is used on non-van models only. Vans with the 1.6 Duratorq TDCi are rated 200 N·m (150 lb·ft) torque.

Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The automatic is only offered with the 1.4 Duratec. The 2011 North American model offers the Powershift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic as an option in addition to the 5-speed manual, which may be sold with a diesel in Europe in the future.

Reception

In late 2008 Motor Trend called the new generation of Fiesta a "superb little car" whose "greatest problem is that it's still a year away",^[33] a reference to the fact that the Fiesta would not arrive in the USA until early 2010. British magazine Auto Express called the car a "new class leader";^[34] UK's Car Magazine said it was a "huge achievement" which will "please just about everyone".^[35] The February 2009 issue of Britain's What Car? magazine named the new Fiesta "Car of the Year" and the Ford Mondeo "Best Family Car" and "Best Estate."^[36] According to What Car?, there is plenty of space in the front of the cabin, however, the rear knee space is rather limited and the backrests do not fold flat onto the base, making an uneven floor for the expanded boot.^[37]

The Fiesta was featured on episode 6 of series 12 of Top Gear in a series of "serious" road tests conducted by presenter Jeremy Clarkson, from escaping 'baddies' driving a Chevrolet Corvette C6 in the Festival Place Basingstoke shopping mall, to participating in an amphibious beach assault with the Royal Marines.

North American market

2011 Ford Fiesta S sedan (US)

2011 Ford Fiesta SES 5-door (US)

For the North American Fiesta, Ford initiated a marketing campaign in the spring of 2009 called the Fiesta Movement, distributing examples of European Fiestas to applicants across the United States — to have the test drivers use popular Internet sites to share their experiences.^[38] Subsequently, Ford brought the cars to public venues nationwide to offer 100,000 test drives over eight months.^[39] One such event was offering free shuttle service in Chicago from a site near the Union Station commuter rail terminal to the Taste of Chicago event in Grant Park the week starting June 29, 2009. Late in July, six European Fiestas arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to begin a similar demonstration tour across Canada.^[40]

Following on the success of Fiesta Movement, which ensured awareness of the vehicle, Ford initiated Fiesta Movement 2 in December 2009 by calling for video applications to be submitted by the end of January 2010 for activities to begin mid-February. The purpose of this second phase of the Movement is to generate excitement for the vehicle.^[41]

In March 2010, Ford worked with the popular television series 'American Idol' to promote the Ford Fiesta in North America. Working with Ford designers, the final 12 contestants of the show were given an opportunity to create their own custom graphics on a Ford Fiesta. The personalized Fiestas were revealed on the show and fans were given the chance to win one of the personalized cars.^[42]

The North American market version of the new Fiesta, which was unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December,^[43] will offer Ford's "Powershift" dual-clutch automatic transmission, as seen in the international Focus. It is not offered in a 3-door hatchback model. Certain options that are available in the UK (such as a heated windshield) are not offered in North America. Ford sales managers in Canada are being told that a diesel option is possible late in 2011.

Ford dealers in the US will offer an assortment of specialty-designed graphics for the Fiesta. They will be made of laminated vinyl, and are expected to last 3 to 5 years before being replaced.^[44] Also, certain dealers partaking in a new Ford Retail program will provide an "unwrapping" digital package loaded with a photograph of the buyer taking delivery of his/her new car. A 19-minute audio description of the car and its features is included, which can be played on the way home, then loaded along with its interactive program into the home computer via its USB connection.^[45]

Launch

Production of Ford Fiesta for the North American market started in May 2010. Ford planned to have cars available for sale soon after in summer. In June 18, 2010, it was reported that although dealers took deposits from over 2,000 customers for Fiesta and placed large orders as the car was heavily marketed, dealers and customers had not received cars that they expected to have arrived weeks ago in May.^[46] In July, Ford said initial shipments were delayed for up to two weeks by Hurricane Alex that hit Northern Mexico in late June, and subsequently by Tropical Storm Bonnie.^[47] As a result of the delays, Ford sent out US$50 gift certificates. By August 2010, Ford delayed some shipments because of a 'quality problem'. Ford claimed the issue was fixed and it was unlikely cars with defective parts would reach customers.^[48]

Commercial Variants

All six generations of the Fiesta have been available in panel van format, although not available in all markets. The Mark I, II and III versions feature the standard 3-door bodyshell with the rear side glass replaced by body coloured metal and a flat floorpan instead of the rear seats.

In 1991, a "high-cube" style van based on the Mark III chassis was introduced and was named the Ford Courier. The Courier continued in the Mark IV style through until 2002, when it was replaced by the Ford Transit Connect.

For the Mark V, the standard Fiestavan version was based on the 3-door bodyshell rather than the taller 5-door version. The Mark VI Fiesta van was first introduced in the European market in the summer of 2009, a year after the original launch.

Future

Starting in May 2010, the Fiesta will be produced at plants in Germany, Spain, Mexico, Thailand and China for sale in markets around the world. The Fiesta for the North American market will be built at Cuautitlán Assembly in Mexico.

Motorsport

Rallying

Ford Fiesta Group N rally car

Ford Fiesta Rally car Group N in Rally Japan 2007, No.102 Kodue Oi.
Manufacturer	Ford Motors and M-Sport

Two Ford Fiestas famously starred in the 1979 Monte Carlo rally — the British entry driven by Roger Clark and aided by co-driver Jim Porter, and a German entry piloted by Ari Vatanen and co-driven by David Richards.

Both cars were highly modified with special motorsport components throughout and featured pioneering Limited Slip Differential (LSD) technology. The cars were powered by competition tuned versions of the 1600 cc Kent crossflow engine — a later version of which appeared in the Mk 1 Fiesta XR2.

The 2 cars worked well in the arduous ice and snow that year. Roger Clark did not set any records but the German car achieved 9th position overall — a very encouraging result which sparked demand for sportier Fiestas.

Since this there have been sporting and "hot hatch" editions. Versions include Supersport, XR2, S(Sport), XR2i, Si, RS Turbo, RS1800, Zetec S, Zetec RS, and ST. All of these were powered by a range of engines from the Ford Kent engine to the Ford Duratec engine.

The Ford RallyeConcept in 2002 and Fiesta JWRC. Ford RallyeConcept has been realised through an intensely close collaboration between Ford RallyeSport, the motorsport experts behind the Puma Super 1600 and the Focus WRC rally cars, and Ford Design Europe, the creative team responsible for the new three-door Fiesta on which the RallyeConcept is based. Ford RallyeConcept's marriage of the motorsport engineer's objective for performance functionality with the eye for detail of the designer has been so effective that Ford has committed to an engineering development programme to bring a Fiesta-based rally car to reality. Aiming for FIA homologation by the summer of 2003, Ford RallyeSport is hoping that it will become Ford's next success story in national and international rallying. Fiesta Super 1600 debut Rally Greece 2004.

The "Fiesta Sporting Trophy" is a One Make Championship; beginning its 1st season in March 2006. It combines keen competition with equal performance and leaves the decision about winning or losing to the drivers and co-drivers capabilities. The driver, co-driver and mechanics work as a team to compete against the toughest adversary of all — the clock.

The Fiesta Sporting Trophy will be based around the Fiesta ST Group N car. The car has 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp) from the 2 L Duratec ST engine which when combined with the conversion kit from M-Sport, has been designed to provide all of the safety equipment and performance upgrades to enable the car to be competitive and reliable at any event around the world.

In March 2007, the Pirtek Rally Team introduced the Ford Fiesta Super 2000 rally car, which will compete in the Australian Rally Championship.

On 18 November 2009, Ford with M-Sport unveiled the Ford Fiesta S2000 Mark VI. Although not due for homologation until January 2010 it is set to make its debut as course car on the final round of the IRC series, Rally Scotland. The car has been built to compete mainly in the Super 2000 World Rally Championship and World Rally Championship when the new rules come into place for 2011 but it is expected to make appearances in the IRC as well.

Fiesta ST Group N specifications

Rallycross

Ford Fiesta Div 1 rallycross car

The 2008 Ford Fiesta ST ERC (4WD, 560 bhp, 800 Nm) of Marcus Grönholm for Rallycross pictured at a press conference in Stockholm.
Manufacturer	Ford's TeamRS and Swedish rally team MSE

Fiesta ERC Div 1 is racecar with a 2.0 L Duratec turbocharged four cylinder engine, running on petrol or E85 (85% ethanol/15% petrol). It produces over 550 bhp (410 kW; 560 PS) and 820 N·m (600 lb·ft). That propels the 2,600 lb (1,200 kg) rally-prepped Fiesta up to sixty in 2.8 seconds. The car is driven by former champion Andreas Erikkson, double World Rally Champion Marcus Gronholm, and several others. The cars are smaller and more powerful than WRC cars.

The Fiesta Rallycross cars made their U.S. debuts in July's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado. Swedish Olsbergs Motor Sport Evolution (MSE) team announced the cars would later appear in ESPN's X Games 15 on 2009-08-02.^[49] The Olsbergs MSE Fiesta Rallycross cars were based on the Fiesta hatchback model road cars, but with all-wheel drive, powered by 2.0 L Duratec Ford engines capable of more than 800 hp (600 kW).

Circuit racing

In the UK, the Fiesta is commonly used in numerous club level motorsport series but has its national one-make series called the Ford Fiesta Championship. During its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, it had manufacturer support and it even was a support race to the British Grand Prix and numerous British Touring Car Championship rounds. The series has gone through numerous name changes including Ford Credit Fiesta Championship, Ford Fiesta Zetec Championship and BRSCC Ford Si Challenge and is nowadays run by the BRSCC (British Racing and Sports Car Club) as a club racing championship. The organisation also run the other series that consists of Fiestas.^[50]

• Ford XR Challenge, for XR2 and XR2i models, also consists of the Escort XR models.^[50]
• Ford Saloon Championship, mainly for a wider range of Ford models but Fiestas are mostly seen in classes C and E with a Mk 4 example winning the title outright in 2006 at the hands of Ollie Allen.^[50]

Popularity

In early 2009, total sales of the Fiesta since its launch 33 years earlier passed the 3,500,000 mark in Britain, making it the second most popular car ever sold there.^[51] It has been Britain's most popular new car in 1990, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 2009.^[52]

Awards

• Winner of UK Design Council Efficiency Award for "exemplary contribution to the reduction of running and maintenance costs" in 1978. The award was presented by Prince Philip.
• Winner Australia's Best Small Car in 2004.
• Winner of Business Standard Motoring Jury Award, 2006.
• What Car's Best Used Supermini for 2006 - 1.4 Zetec 3dr 2003 - Runner Up Toyota Yaris 1.0 T2 3dr 2003.
• Winner of Brazilian Auto Esporte magazine Car of the Year in 2005 (Fiesta Sedan).
• Named Scottish Car of the Year 2008 at the 11th annual Association of Scottish Motoring Writers (ASMW) awards dinner in St Andrew's, Scotland.
• Named 'Car of the Year 1989' by Britain's What Car? magazine
• Named 'Car of the Year 2009' by Britain's What Car? magazine ^[36]
• Named 'Car of the Year' and 'Best Supermini' in Auto Express magazine's New Car Awards 2009
• Fiesta ECOnetic named 'Least boring green car'of 2009 by Top Gear's James May
• First minicar to achieve Top Safety Pick by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) based on front-, side- and rear-impact crash testing and roof-strength.

See also

• Ford Ikon

References

External links

• Ford Fiesta USA official website
• Ford Fiesta UK official website
• Ford UK Fiesta van site
• Ford Fiesta official history website (Mark and time line history) Ford of Europe, Media Kits
• Ford Fiesta Graphics (official US accessory)