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www.fordmagic.co.uk

Ford Fiesta Hatchback 1.25 16v Freedom

For:
Ford's Fiesta is the best-driving supermini, and it has plenty of space and sharp looks

Against:
It's pricey, and too noisy at speed. Depreciation is heavy compared with the best



Performance

Every engine is happy enough at low speeds, but when you hit the highway you'll be grateful for the extra pull of the 1.4 or 1.6 turbodiesels: they respond quicker at low revs for easier overtaking. The 1.25 petrol struggles at higher speeds, meaning the 1.4 and 1.6 are better for A-road and motorway work. The 2.0 petrol is brisk rather than fast.

Ride & handling

The Fiesta is one of the best-handling superminis around. Firm suspension controls body roll well, while there's good grip and the steering is sharp and informative. The trade-off is a firm ride. It gets better with increased pace, but some may find it too stiff in town.

Refinement

Although all the controls operate with a well-oiled precision, the Fiesta can't match the class leaders for refinement. On all versions, engine noise intrudes at high revs and on the motorway, while the 1.4 diesel is rowdy at all times. Wind noise is also too prevalent and road noise becomes tiring.

Buying & owning

Starting prices are low, but big discounts are still available. Depreciation is heavier than with the best cars in the class, but about par for the Fiesta's closer rivals. Running costs are reasonable across the range.

Quality & reliability

The Fiesta feels solidly built, although the majority of the cabin plastics are hard and unappealing. The Fiesta put in a below-average performance in the latest JD Power customer satisfaction survey.

Safety & security

All models have standard driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes. Side and curtain 'bags are available as a cheap options package. The Fiesta came joint top of its class with the Nissan Micra in the 2003 Security Supertest; our testers couldn't break in within the allotted two minutes. All models have deadlocks, plus marked parts.

Behind the wheel

All the controls are bold, well placed and easy to use. Not everyone will be able to get comfy, however - the driver sits very high and there's a limited amount of seat height travel, while the steering wheel adjusts for height but not reach.

Space & practicality

The Fiesta is one of the most practical superminis around. Front and rear, there's plenty of head- and legroom, taking four adults comfortably. The boot is a useful size and shape, while the rear seats fold to extend practicality, but leave a stepped load area.

Equipment

There are seven trims (not counting the ST hot hatch): Freedom, Studio, Style, Zetec, Zetec Climate, Ghia and Zetec S. Standard features include power steering and central locking. Style versions add a CD player, electric front windows and height adjustable driver's seat. Zetec includes alloy wheels, front foglights and a rear spoiler, and climate control on Zetec Climate models. Ghia cars get an alarm and leather trim.

Running Costs

Town mpg

36.2

Out of Town mpg

60.1

Average mpg

48.7

Tank Capacity (gallons)

9.9

CO2 Rating (g/km)

139

Insurance Group

3

Typical Insurance Quote

£304

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

37

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£0

Pence Per Mile

0

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£0

Servicing Intervals

1yr/12,500

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 6yr Perforation + 1yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1242/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

75/5200

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

3918

Width (mm)

1683

Height (mm)

1432

Boot Space (min ltr)

284

Boot Space (max ltr)

947

Turning Circle (m)

9.3

Towing Weight(kg)

600

Kerb Weight (kg)

1102

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