Name: Ford Fiesta Review
Item: Ford Fiesta
Author: Gumtree.com

Generations of Britons have a soft spot for the Ford Fiesta, and as a bestseller in 2019, it remains one of the most beloved hatchbacks around. The latest Fiesta is a firm favourite as an affordable option for first-time buyers and young families. This newest iteration is more spacious and comes with a range of nifty high-tech add-ons. Performance-wise, Ford’s engineers have also improved on the exciting drive-feel – a memorable staple of Fiestas in the past.

Visit the Ford Fiesta model page to explore available cars and learn more about the model

What we think about the Ford Fiesta

With as many as 10 trims available, the recent Ford Fiesta is as convenient as it is thrilling.

Pros

Exciting to drive

Low running costs

An engine that packs a punch

Cons

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Low on headroom

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Interior trim lacks a sparkle

As of now, there are 10 trims available on the UK market – so you’re spoilt for choice. The Fiesta became petrol only in 2020, with the Titanium as the most popular trim of the line-up, while the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine packs a surprising little punch.

Driving performance of the Ford Fiesta

Our Driving Rating9 / 10

If you enjoyed the charm of driving previous Fiestas, the latest iteration won’t disappoint. The suspension can be a little tough, but this depends on your trim of choice – the Titanium, Vignale and Zetec have a comfortable feel to them. The handling is as pleasing as ever, and thanks to its grippier tyres it takes winding country roads in its stride. One irritation in older versions is the sticky manual transmission – though its new six-speed gearbox with more precise ratios alleviates this, making cycling up the gears more enjoyable.

Safety and reliability of the Ford Fiesta

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

Ford’s reputation for safety is unwavering – the latest Fiesta scores a five-star crash test rating with the Euro NCAP. However, the most basic trim level does mean basic. For tech options, you’ll need to consider a Zetec or Titanium trim, though some basic models come with lane-tracking assistance to help keep you well within your lane. Ford provides traffic sign recognition and autonomous emergency braking, which ensures you always keep a safe distance between you and the car in front. They also offer a whole host of other high-tech features for safety and easy parking – provided you’re willing to pay for them.

Under the bonnet of the Ford Fiesta

Our Engine Rating10 / 10

The Fiesta’s engine packs a punch with a five-speed gearbox available, though the newer six-speed transmission is a smoother choice. The entry-level engine offers 95 bhp, but if you’re looking for a thrilling hatchback, then the 125 bhp or 140 bhp versions are worth a look. They’ll reach 60 mph in 11 seconds, 10 seconds and 9.5 seconds respectively. The difference isn’t vast, but the feeling is. A great alternative to consider is the 125 bhp EcoBoost engine, which will give you the same thrills at a reduced running cost.

What you'll find in the Ford Fiesta

Our Design Rating7 / 10

Ford has redesigned the dashboard, removing the old plastic-feel with a slicker eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system – but again, this impressive piece of tech is an added extra. While the interior is pleasing, it’s still a little shy of that wow factor. The soft-touch plastic finds its way into many visible areas, and the backseat is a tight squeeze for some adults – particularly with the new panoramic sunroof. The excellent suspension reduces any discomfort, while almost no wind noise on the motorway allows you to enjoy the soft hum of the Fiesta’s impressive engine.

Comfort and interiors in the Ford Fiesta

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

The front seats are surprisingly spacious, provided you aren’t much taller than six foot. The backseats lack headroom and the panoramic sunroof reduces this further. The Fiesta gives you 292 litres of boot space, comparably smaller than other hatchbacks, but if you fold the backseats down that space extends to 1,093 litres – not bad at all. Its dimensions increase depending on your spec preference, making it less compact than you might want. But the optional automatic parking sensors and automatic parking system should ensure its manoeuvring remains simple and nimble.

What features you'll find in the Ford Fiesta

Our Features Rating9 / 10

Ford has provided some exciting new features in the latest Fiesta, provided you’re willing to pay extra for them. A basic trim means you won’t be able to enjoy their shiny new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. With crisp graphics, native navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android connections, it’s worth the option price. As you move up the trims you’ll get to enjoy higher quality seating, but this does highlight the lack of investment in other areas – like a solution for their scratchy door handles.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Ford Fiesta

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

The 2020 Fiestas are all 1.0-litre petrol engines. The 95 bhp will give you approximately 52-56 mpg, while the 125 bhp will give you approximately 47-49 mpg. Ford’s EcoBoost semi-hybrid alternative – not to be confused with a full-on hybrid – will cleverly provide an electrical nudge as needed. This conserves more fuel in stop/start scenarios and offers 52-57 mpg. The C02 emissions range from 114 g/km – 150 g/km depending on the spec.

Running costs of the Ford Fiesta

Our Cost Rating9 / 10

Ford’s well-deserved reputation for cost-effective cars continues with the new Fiesta. As Fiestas age, their finance deals only seem to improve – so keep an eye out for favourable offers on used cars or scrappage schemes. Insurance groups also find themselves on the cheaper end of the spectrum, generally going no higher than 15E. Thanks to its high-tech engines, tax bills and fuel economy are also pleasingly low. Combine this with Ford’s reliably supportive maintenance services and any challenges you do stumble across should be easily managed.

Our verdict of the Ford Fiesta

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

A clever use of interior space with new high-tech options and superb performance ensure the Ford Fiesta retains its spot as one of Britain's best-selling cars.

Ford Fiesta Review