The new Fiesta is already off to a very strong start in Europe and the UK. “In the UK, the Fiesta’s market share for November was the highest since January 1998 for the nameplate, and the new Fiesta attracted 1,000 more retail British buyers than the previous model in November 2007," said Ingvar Sviggum, vice president, marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe. "This is a promising start for our all-new global model.”
A few weeks ago Ford revealed the key features of the U.S.-spec car via the Fiesta's minisite. A 1.6L four-cylinder with twin independent variable valve timing will offer enough pep for the American palate, while likely planting the Fiesta firmly among the most efficient non-hybrids on offer. The Ford/Microsoft Sync system will be an available option, offering a high degree of technological connectivity - an option which has proven popular on the Focus sedan so far.
Other basics include keyless entry, available 16-inch aluminum wheels, a choice of three different cloth or leather upholstery options, plus a 4" multifunction display, seven airbags and a standard electronic stability control system.
Though the car will be among the smallest four-doors on the market when it comes to America, Ford appears to be positioning the car for a rather premium space in the segment. That will give Ford a chance to clear a better profit margin in the notoriously tough small-car arena, but it could also limit volume somewhat. On the other hand, Honda's Fit, which is positioned similarly within the market, is selling strongly even now.
The buyers that have been attracted to the car so far have been going further up-market than the nameplate's past buyers. According to Ford, about 50% of buyers are choosing the upscale Titanium and Ghia packages, and about half of the vehicles on the road features Bluetooth cell phone connectivity.
Once the current Ford truck line at the Cautitlan, Mexico plant is done retooling for the new minicar, production will start for an expected early 2010 North American debut. The Fiesta is already on sale in Europe, and will be headed to China in 2009.
Reader Comments
Tue Nov 25 2008 12:02 PM
NoNameDenton says
How about an EcoBoost engine
Tue Nov 25 2008 12:40 PM
Suggs says
Just wish the Blue oval would release the fiesta saloon here in the UK
Wed Nov 26 2008 5:48 AM
Jim says
If Ford can make it past GM's assisted suicide the company can have a future. There are compelling vehicles coming from Dearborn, even if they originated in the UK
Wed Nov 26 2008 10:03 AM
nipsip says
Why should we have to buy such a drab engine in a hot looking car Where is F's answer to the VW Twincharger 1.4L?
BTW: Variable valve timing is an ancient concept at Honda.
Wed Nov 26 2008 1:23 PM
NoNameDenton says
The EcoBoost is like the twin charger, has DI and turbos
Wed Nov 26 2008 3:15 PM
Chris says
nipsip..
noname was getting to it.. the ecoboost option on the 1.6L should put you north of 160hp.. and the mazdaspeed2 is already in the pipeline.. this car is 90% the same as the 2.. so.. expect to see a hot ford fiesta. whether it is offered in north america..........
Mon Dec 15 2008 1:01 PM
Mike says
If they price it right, it'll be a hit. The UK Ford guys have been on a roll. This and the Euro Focus could save Ford's domestic sales. Let's just hope Ford is still around by 2010.
Mon Dec 15 2008 1:07 PM
NoNameDenton says
Bring it over here sooner please, even with gas prices dropping it would still be a hit
Tue Dec 16 2008 8:27 AM
NaBUru38 says
Were it me, my EcoBoost engines would displace 1.0 (75, 90, 110hp), 1.4 (130, 150, 170hp) and 1.8 liters (190, 210, 240, 280hp).
The Fiesta is a subcompact car (B segment), not a "minicar" (A segment).
"Ford appears to be positioning the car for a rather premium space in the segment"
Every maintream carmaker claims that...
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