New 2011 Ford Fiesta Gives Subcompacts a Run for their Money
Ford revives the Fiesta nameplate with the introduction of the all-new 2011 Ford Fiesta. Billed as a subcompact, Ford is squeezing this new Lilliputian model into a fairly competitive vehicle class. However, this sporty gas sipper proves to be an exceptionally impressive new addition to the Ford lineup. So much so, in fact, that top competitors such as the Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra and Mazda MAZDA3 should be shaking in their radials.
New Ford Fiesta Styling
Though new to America, the Ford Fiesta has been sold internationally for quite some time. For the U.S. model, Ford imports a European styling that is sleek and a bit unconventional from what us Yanks are accustomed. Still, the 2011 Fiesta is an attractive model that makes good use of its small proportions. A tall ceiling helps maximize interior volume, while the pulled-back appearance helps keep the car from looking top-heavy. The Fiesta is available as either a hatchback or sedan.
Climb behind the steering wheel, and you'll be pleased to see that the Fiesta is one of the roomiest subcompacts around (especially in hatchback form). Real estate in the rear seat is also fairly impressive given the vehicle's small size.
Adding to the appeal of the interior, is an upscale interior quality that is unheard of in the affordable subcompact category. While the base model comes with only basic accoutrements (air conditioning, MP3 input, etc), upper-tier trims offer such niceties as SYNC infotainment, Bluetooth, keyless ignition and leather seating.
New Ford Fiesta Performance
Most subcompacts compromise engine performance for fuel efficiency, or vice versa. Such is not the case for the 2011 Ford Fiesta. Outfitted with a peppy 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, the 120-hp powerplant delivers enough acceleration and handling to make the Fiesta a joy to drive. While a five-speed manual comes standard, a six-speed manual with dual-clutch automation is an available upgrade. Dual-clutch automation helps maximize fuel efficiency without diminishing engine power (and was previously only available on luxury vehicles).
Regardless of which transmission you choose, you can expect gas mileage that is better than pretty much any other traditional gas engine on the road. While official EPA estimates have yet to be released, Ford suggests drivers can expect 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Those numbers are enough to make the Fiesta the second-most fuel-efficient gas-powered car on the road (right behind the Smart forTwo).
New Ford Fiesta Safety
The Fiesta's philosophy of over-delivering is extended to the category of safety. While crash tests have yet to be performed on the Fiesta, the vehicle comes with an impressive list of standard safety features. Outfitted with seven airbags, the Fiesta is the only vehicle in its class to offer a driver's knee airbag. Other standard features include traction control, stability control and antilock brakes.
New Ford Fiesta Pricing
The base MSRP for the new 2011 Ford Fiesta settles somewhere around the $14,000 mark. For upgrade models, you can expect to pay around $18,000. These numbers are comparable to Honda Fit, which matches the Fiesta in terms of engine performance and available features. When comparing the Fit to the Fiesta, however, the Fiesta earns extra points for a more appealing dashboard and a quieter ride.
If price is more of a concern than overall value, the Suzuki SX4 and Kia Rio may be worth looking into. For those interested in engine performance, the Mazda MAZDA3 (and upcoming Mazda MAZDA2) may also interest you.