Overview of the Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta has been hot property in the UK and Europe since its 1976 debut, yet it didn't reach Australia until 2004. Ford's city car has never seemed to reach its sales potential here, despite plenty of body-style choices (three- and five-door hatches and sedan) and critical acclaim for its dynamics. Its sporty handling credentials have been exemplified by hot-hatch versions initially called the XR4 followed by ST. In 2018, Ford Australia said it would not be importing regular versions of the new, seventh-generation Fiesta, instead focusing on the new ST performance variant.
FORD FIESTA GENERATIONS (SINCE 2004)
2004-2009
2009 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
1.0L 3-cylinder turbo: 4.9 to 5.4 litres per 100km
1.5L 4-cylinder: 5.8 litres per 100km
1.6L 4-cylinder turbo (ST): 6.2 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Every 15,000km or 12 months, whichever is sooner. Each service currently costs between about $250 and $380. Ford Fiesta parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO FORD FIESTA
Holden Barina
Renault Clio
Suzuki Swift
Volkswagen Polo
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: FORD FIESTA (2009 ONWARDS)
Let's start this by saying that the Fiesta is a good little car, though it's perhaps best to choose one with a manual gearbox.
This generational model's dual-clutch automatic-style transmission has been a big issue for Ford, and the subject of a Federal Court case that led to a big fine and the creation of an independent complaints review panel.
Problems with the transmission include shuddering on take-off, a sudden loss of drive and noises from the unit.
Ease the worries by opting for three pedals and a stick-shift and enjoy one of the best-driving city cars of all time.
