Ford’s 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Ecoboost motor has been a revelation since it was introduced some years ago – dominating its class at the International Engine of the Year Awards, and bringing home the gold every year.
However, despite the American-automakers immense success with their 1.0-litre Ecoboost motor, Ford has copped a lot of slack from ST owners by fitting a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder into their latest Fiesta ST.
When it comes to engine specification though, the new powerplant actually produces superior output to the previous generation ST’s 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor. The Mk7 ST produced 134kw and 240nm (the limited edition ST200 produced 147kw and 290nm), while the new Mk8 ST produces 147kw and 290nm and allows the little hatch to sprint from 0-100kph in a little over 6.5 seconds.
While downsizing has been a contentious issue, Carwow has decided to put the two generations of Fiesta ST up against each other in a series of tests, to answer the question of whether downsizing has hurt the performance of the highly-acclaimed sporty hatch.
On a side note, Ford South Africa has confirmed that they will not be bringing the new Fiesta ST to South Africa, citing incompatibility with our fuel.
Also worth a look: the Ford Transit Custom and the Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns as 800kg Track Weapon.
FAQ
Q: Is the Ford Fiesta ST available in South Africa?
No, Ford South Africa has confirmed they will not be bringing the new Mk8 Fiesta ST to South Africa, citing incompatibility with local fuel quality.
Q: What engine does the new Ford Fiesta ST have?
The new Mk8 Fiesta ST features a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 147kW and 290Nm of torque.
Q: How fast is the Ford Fiesta ST from 0-100kph?
The new Fiesta ST can sprint from 0-100kph in just over 6.5 seconds thanks to its 147kW output.
Q: Is the new Fiesta ST more powerful than the previous generation?
Yes, the new Mk8 ST produces 147kW and 290Nm compared to the Mk7's 134kW and 240Nm, matching the output of the limited edition ST200.
Q: Why did Ford downsize the Fiesta ST engine?
Ford downsized from a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder to a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbo engine while actually increasing power output and maintaining performance.
Should You Buy It?
Unfortunately, you can't buy the new Ford Fiesta ST in South Africa at any price, as Ford has decided not to bring it here due to fuel compatibility issues. If you're after a hot hatch alternative, consider the Volkswagen Polo GTI from around R480,000 or hunt down a used Mk7 Fiesta ST on the second-hand market. While the new ST looks brilliant on paper with its improved 147kW output, South African petrolheads will have to admire it from afar or look elsewhere for their hot hatch thrills.
Should You Buy It?
Here's the thing, boet: you can't actually buy the new Fiesta ST in South Africa because Ford won't bring it here due to fuel compatibility issues. If you're hunting for hot hatch thrills, you'll need to look at alternatives like the Volkswagen Polo GTI at around R549,900 or hunt down a used previous-generation Fiesta ST (if you can find one). The new ST would've been a cracker with its improved 147kW output, but until Ford sorts out the fuel situation, it's a no-go for local petrolheads. Stick to what's available on our shores.
