The Fiesta is one of those rare subcompacts that feels like a solid, 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 its standard 120-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine.
With the 1.6, we measured an excellent 32 mpg overall with a manual transmission and 33 with an automatic. Still, some larger compact and midsized sedans can meet or beat these numbers. In addition, performance with the 1.6-liter is just adequate.
Other recent Fiesta updates include revised steering that dials down handling acuteness somewhat. Most people probably won't notice, since it remains an agile little car. But it lacks the pinpoint sharpness that made the pre-2014 Fiesta exceptionally fun to drive.
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. The car's amazing braking performance is more reminiscent of a Corvette or Porsche than a small hatchback. And unlike some sporty cars, the ST doesn't beat you up with obnoxious noise levels; it emits an invigorating growl that's 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. The 2016 model year brought Ford's new Sync 3 infotainment system, which is easier to use.
The Fiesta can get expensive, so be sure to consider some of the better subcompact choices, such as the Toyota Yaris iA, Honda Fit, and Chevrolet Sonic.