Ford Fiesta LX
EUROPEANS don't buy mini cars with automatic transmissions. Australians do. But does it make sense? As a four-speed auto, the German-built Fiesta has a 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine, whereas the manual has a 1.6-litre engine. You lose 17kW and 27Nm, yet add 0.8 litres per 100 kilometres in fuel use and $1500 to the price. Dubious deal? Let's find out.
WHAT DO YOU GET?
We are testing the mid-spec five-door LX auto, priced from $20,490. Standard equipment includes air-conditioning, cruise control, power windows and a three-spoke leather-trim steering wheel. Fashionable alloys are fitted with 15-inch rubber, while the spare is classed as temporary but is a full-size 14-inch tyre.
HOW SAFE?
Dual front airbags are fitted along with anti-lock brakes but front-side airbags, a driver's knee airbag and stability control are part of a $1000 package.
NCAP has awarded the new Fiesta a maximum five stars but only four stars for versions without stability control (LX and base CL).
WHAT'S INSIDE?
The Fiesta LX's interior is modern and distinctive, particularly around the cockpit. Instrument dials peer out like bat's eyes from under angled lids, while the controls are mounted on a prominent snout under a media screen. Trimmed in faux-metallic plastic, it is meant to resemble a mobile phone keypad.
Buttons are large and operate logically, with a nicely sized slot for a mobile phone and simple, large air-conditioning controls.
Storage solutions include a medium-size glovebox, an unlidded bin and large front door pockets.
An odd-looking but comfortable three-spoke steering wheel includes both cruise and audio adjustment.
The front seats have no problem with length, especially the squab. However, wider people may find the backrest bolstering a tad intrusive. Accessed by wide opening doors, the rear space is not all that generous for adults but is OK for children.
There is only limited storage, with just one seat-back pocket.
However, everyone gets lap-sash belts and headrests and there are three child restraints on the back of the seat. The tailgate is light, low and easy to operate but a lip on the boot adds to load height. The boot measures 281 litres (which is just OK), expanding to 965 litres with the rear seat split-folded.
UNDER THE BONNET
The combination of a 1.4-litre engine, four gears and a 1125-kilogram kerb weight conspires to ensure performance is mediocre.
Hill climbing presents the biggest challenge. On a steep slope at 100km/h, the transmission jumps between second, third and fourth.
First is a prerequisite on uphill hairpins.
The engine can be clearly heard through all this but there are no obvious vibrations or rough patches.
On flatter ground and at slower speeds, the Fiesta is a perky little number
Fuel consumption on standard unleaded ended up at 8.0L/100km versus the 6.9L/100km official average.
ON THE ROAD
The Fiesta shares its core structure with the Mazda2, which is a good thing. The ride has Ford's signature control, able to quell all but the biggest hits without pogo-ing.
The LX handles with confidence and steers with authority. Its dynamics lead the class.
At lower speeds, the new electronic power steering could be a touch lighter but the biggest issue is visibility. Reversing and head checks are difficult.
VERDICT
It's a pity that Ford offers a lesser drivetrain for more money with auto versions of the Fiesta, when so much else about the car is so good. Having said that, the Fiesta auto isn't so bad that it's unliveable. It's just not what it should be.
PRICE From $20,490, plus on-road/dealer costs.
ENGINE 1.4L 4-cyl, 71kW/125Nm, 6.9L/100km, 164g/km CO2, FWD.
WHAT IT HAS Dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, air-conditioning, cruise control, power windows, leather steering wheel with audio controls, single-CD audio with aux input, trip computer, Bluetooth, 15-inch alloys, space-saver spare tyre.
FOR Benchmark on-road handling for a light car, smart interior, sharp styling.
AGAINST Optional safety gear should be standard, manual drivetrain better than the auto.
THE COMPETITORS
FIAT PUNTO DYNAMIC 5-DR AUTO
From $21,990 (drive-away) has six airbags standard, anti-lock brakes (stability control only on Sport model), economical 1.4L engine, 5-sp auto, offers some European flair at Japanese prices though the suspension is in need of more refinement. ★★★
TOYOTA YARIS YRS 5-DR AUTO
From $20,140 (plus on-road/dealer costs) 1.5L engine with 4-sp auto, two airbags and anti-lock brakes standard, optional $750 safety pack adds five airbags but no stability control. Engine needs more refinement. ★★★
MAZDA2 MAXX 5-DR AUTO
From $21,300 (plus on-road/dealer costs) 1.5L engine with a 4-sp auto, two airbags, ($1100 pack includes side and curtain bags and stability control). A competent and engaging light car. ★★★★
For more on the competitors,
go to drive.com.au/competitors
For more on the Ford Fiesta,
go to drive.com.au/ford