The Fiesta is a subcompact that feels like a solid and much more substantial car, while offering a civilized ride and fairly quiet cabin for its class. As you'd expect for such a small car, it's also quite fuel efficient, with either its standard 120-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine or its optional 123-hp, 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder.
With the 1.6, we measured an excellent 32 mpg overall with the manual transmission and 33 with the automatic. Performance with the 1.6-liter is just adequate though.
Fuel economy is the raison d'etre for the tiny three-cylinder and we measured an impressive 35 mpg overall and 46 on the highway. It also provides notably quicker acceleration.
Still, we're not convinced that the three-cylinder is such a good alternative. It has to work hard and rev high to make a good showing and it sounds a bit coarse when doing so. The 1.0 also is also more expensive and comes only with a five-speed manual transmission.
You can still get a super-fun Fiesta if you spring for the much-costlier ST hot-hatch version, but that's really a different cup of salsa.
The ST was clearly developed by people who like driving. Even the most diehard enthusiasts at our test track were impressed with its handling, steering responsiveness, and sporty-sounding engine.
Agile handling, especially, is the Fiesta's strong suit, complemented by steering that has immediate and near-telepathic responsiveness. But there's much more. The 197-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine pulls strongly in just about any gear. And, unlike other sporty cars, the ST doesn't beat you up with obnoxious noise levels. Its invigorating growl is music to an enthusiast's ears.
Meanwhile, some shortcomings carry over from the previous car, including a painfully tight rear seat and complicated radio controls. Reaching the far away and too-small touchscreen for the optional MyFord Touch infotainment system is very difficult.