Ford Fiesta (02 - 08) Tested Feb 2006

Rating

Quick Summary

Recommended. Revised and refreshed - the Fiesta is as great to drive as ever, but now it's quite nice to spend time in, even if it is a touch noisy.

Full Road Test

This Fiesta has always been one of the best handling superminis, with a package of mid-term revisions adding a welcome dose of quality to the mix.

As always it's a very sensible choice. Although no longer one of the largest cars in its spatially expanding segment, the Fiesta's tall proportions still give it plenty of cabin space and a reasonably sized boot. Colourful trim now lifts the ambiance effectively, while instruments and switchgear have a quality feel to them that was previously lacking. The driving position is still uncomfortable over longer journeys, though, thanks to a tight footwell and the lack of a clutch foot rest.

Driving dynamics are exemplary thanks to well-weighted controls, accurate steering and nippy responses - both in town and in the country. The only real complaint is with the brake pedal's sometimes rubbery responses. It cruises on motorways effectively, too - although with lots of road noise entering the cabin at speed.

Engine choice feels limited next to the more advanced units of some rivals. The basic petrol engine revs happily but can only deliver modest performance, while the more powerful 1.4 sounds coarse when worked hard - and the 1.6 that propels the supposedly "warm" Zetec-S can deliver barely tepid levels of performance. The TDCI diesels are loud but effective, although the basic 1.4 litre unit lacks much in the way of out-of-town urge - we'd recommend digging deeper for the brawnier 1.6 litre version. The range topping ST is rapid, but looks expensive compared to faster rivals.

Breakdown

Styling

Revisions give the Fiesta some much needed character, especially the revised front headlamps. It no longer looks like a slightly deflated Focus.

Handling

Even the most basic Fiesta delivers a strong dynamic performance. The best car in its segment for simple driving fun.

Comfort

Bigger-wheeled versions suffer from a clumpy ride. Loud cruising and a cramped footwell limit long-distance endurance.

Quality + reliability

Tough construction stands up to family use well, new cabin trim is far better than crypt-like gloom of early cars.

Performance

Basic petrol engines underwhelm. Diesels offset loudness with strong fuel economy. Range-topping 2.0 litre petrol ST is quick but too pricey.

Roominess

Still one of the larger superminis, the five-door offers decent space for occupants although the lower roofline of the three-door limits rear headroom. Decently sized boot.

Running costs

Low-price parts and servicing make the Fiesta a very cheap car to run, especially with one of the fuel-sipping diesel engines. Petrol motors can't match the fuel economy of more modern rivals.

Value for money

Despite keen pricing any potential Fiesta buyers should hold out for a healthy discount. Equipment levels are reasonable on mid-range cars, but the base models are very basic.

Stereo / Sat nav

All versions come with a single-slot CD player as standard with an in-dash six-disc changer is a good value upgrade. Satnav, voice recognition and even Bluetooth phone connectivity are available as high-tech options.

Need to know

NCAP Rating

JD Power stars

Replacement Date: 2009

We like:

1) Responsive chassis.
2) Low running costs.
3) New, improved styling.

We don't like:

1) Gutless base engines.
2) Loud cruising.
3) Not as spacious as more modern rivals.

Best and worst:

Most fun: 2.0 ST
Most sensible: 1.6 TDCI Zetec 5-door.
Worst: 1.4 Ghia

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