|
|
|
|
05/07/2010
By EWAN KENNEDY
|
|
|
Ford Fiesta is built by the European branch of Ford, so has the sort of dynamic handling and solid body feel that keen drivers love. And if that's not enough, the Fiesta’s styling in the latest model, introduced to Australia in December 2008, is almost futuristic in its looks.
Fiesta is sold as a three-door or five-door hatchback. Even in five-door format it has a sporty look, though the smart appearance of the three-door gives it visual appeal that has gained many compliments from those who like their cars to be small and exciting.
The front seats of the Fiesta are larger than average for a car in this class and are reasonably comfortable, though some may find them on the firm side in the traditional German manner. Getting into the back seat of the three-door isn’t too difficult for the kids, but if you’re thinking of using it to carry adults the five-door makes a lot more sense. Once in the back seat, occupants will find it reasonably spacious.
The Fiesta comes in plenty of different variants. Most use a 1.4- or 1.6-litre petrol engine and offer a couple of drivetrain options.
Not all body, model, engine and transmission combinations are available, indeed the range can be quite confusing at times, though it can be argued that there is no such thing as too much choice. May we suggest you call into a Ford dealership to have them explain the choices on offer?
June 2007 saw the introduction of a very special model to the Australian Ford Fiesta range. The Fiesta XR4 is a genuine hot hatch, not just a dressed up pretender. The front of the three-door body has a lower spoiler, and there are stylish side skirts and a rear diffuser. Inside, there are sporting seats with leather bolsters. The dash has coloured inserts to match the trim shades and the instrument dials are done in a neat white-on-black scheme with a real sporting flair.
The XR4's big Duratec 2.0-litre engine gives plenty of performance in a light car such as this. Some will be disappointed that the only a five-speed gearbox is used. However, it has nicely chosen ratios and the change action is slick and positive. The XR4 has lowered suspension and rides on Pirelli P-Zero tyres. Ride comfort is surprisingly good for the hot-hatch class.
These small Fords are laid out in a routine manner so the good home handyperson can do a fair bit of their own work. The underbonnet area isn’t any more cramped than in the average small car, which means access to some areas can be awkward – stand by for blood on the knuckles…
A fascinating new model was launched in November 2009. The Ford Fiesta Econetic is a super-economy model that's powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine tuned specifically for low consumption. It has good torque, uses higher than normal gearing and runs on special low rolling resistance tyres. The result is fuel consumption below four litres per hundred kilometres (that's right, less than four litres!) during easy motorway running. And that's not likely to go to much more than five to six litres per hundred kilometres in day-to-day suburban driving.
Insurance premiums for the standard Ford Fiesta models are about average for the small car class. Some companies may charge more for the XR4 hot-hatch but others don’t really differentiate provided the driver has a good on-road record.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
European made cars aren't built to the near-immaculate standards of Japanese ones, so be wary of any really rough areas.
Listen for squeaks or rattles when driving on rough roads, not necessarily outback tracks, just suburban surfaces that have seen better days.
Look over the interior for signs of damage in the cabin, the back seats may be the first to suffer if bored kids have been stored back there.
The Fiesta engine should start easily, and idle smoothly virtually from the moment it kicks over.
Listen and feel for a manual gearbox that hesitates or crunches during fast changes.
Try the steering on full lock at low speeds both all the way to the right and the left. Listen for the clicking sounds that indicate worn universal joints inboard of the front wheels.
Rust isn't going to be a problem unless a car has been poorly repaired after a crash. Look at all the lower body areas to be on the safe side. If you do see any problems either call in a professional, or find another car.
A Fiesta XR4 that has been hammered is one well worth passing up on. Look for uneven tyre wear, changes to the suspension, an excess of over-the-top accessories and additional instruments.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Print Article
Submit Feedback
Email This Article
