What I liked about the Ford Fiesta:
- Huge fun to drive
- Best-in-class safety resume
- Outstanding fuel economy
- Good selection of options
What I didn't like:
- Limited back seat legroom, especially with front seats adjusted fully rearward
- Complex stereo controls
- Dashboard reflects in the windshield on sunny days
Who should buy the Ford Fiesta:
Small-car buyers who love to drive
Who should not buy the Ford Fiesta:
Those who need as much trunk and/or back seat space as possible
Details and specs:
- Body style: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: S, SE, SEL, SES
- Price range (including options): $13,995 - $21,405
- Model/price tested: Fiesta SEL sedan, $19,575
- Base engine: 1.6 liter inline 4-cylinder, 120 hp @ 6,350 RPM, 112 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM
- Premium fuel required? No
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed twin-clutch automatic
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 29 MPG city/38 MPG highway (manual), 30/40 (automatic)
- Powertrain tested/Observed fuel economy: 1.6 automatic/35.7 MPG
- Trunk space: 12.8 cu. ft. (sedan)/15.4 cu. ft. (hatchback)
- Where built:Mexico
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power mirrors and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, tilt and telescope steering column, height-adjustable driver's seat
- Major options: Power windows, leather upholstery, CD player, keyless entry, keyless push-button ignition, alloy wheels, push-button start, SYNC (voice control for Bluetooth phone and iPod), auto-dimming rear view mirror, satellite radio, cruise control
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 5 years/unlimited mileage roadside assistance
Best rivals:
This test drive was conducted at a manufacturer-sponsored press event. Travel, accommodations, food, vehicles and fuel were provided by Ford.
