The Blue Oval's characterful supermini has received a notable facelift, with revisions to the styling and interior. The distinctive exterior updates include a fresh front end - new headlamps are narrower and, for the first time, offer LED lighting as standard. Matrix LED examples will be available as an optional extra. A reshaped bonnet gives the Fiesta more of a family resemblance, with a design theme similar to that of the Puma crossover and Focus (both of which aren't available in SA).
The Ford badge has been moved from the bodywork and onto the larger grille which, says Ford, gives the little Fiesta better road presence. At the rear, the biggest update is the black surrounds you'll find bordering the taillamps - which are also optionally available as LED units.
Locally, the Fiesta is available in just two trim levels - Titanium and Trend. Overseas, however, there are notably more variants available. Trend and Titanium remain of course, but bolstering the international trim options are the ST-Line and 'Active' crossover derivative (think Polo Cross).
A Vignale model has also been introduced, which has a focus on luxury and sophistication. Plusher trimmings and materials are to be found on this model.
Another Fiesta derivative we don't get here in South Africa is the ST. Popular in the previous generation, the Polo GTI battling hot hatch was not on the cards for SA. Like the regular model, it's received a host of revisions and styling updates, including a number of colour options.
The Fiesta receives a powertrain update too, with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine receiving a mild hybrid system. The 48 volt setup aid performance and economy, increasing the output from 92 kW to 114 kW. As with all Fiesta models, power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission or Fords' seven-speed dual clutch gearbox. Of course, the engine is also available in other states of tune.
The ST retains the three-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine. While power remains the same (147 kW), torque has received a healthy boost. Previously rated at 290 Nm, the ST now produces a healthy 320 Nm of torque in a wide rev range (1600 r/min - 4000 r/min).
Interior upgrades are limited to a customisable 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Ford SA is yet to comment on whether the facelifted Fiesta is destined for SA and, if so, when it plans to introduce the supermini to South Africa.
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FAQ
Q: What does the Ford Fiesta cost in South Africa?
The Ford Fiesta starts at around R389,900 for the Trend model and goes up to approximately R449,900 for the Titanium variant, making it a competitive option in the supermini segment.
Q: Is the Ford Fiesta worth buying in 2024?
The Ford Fiesta is absolutely worth considering if you want a characterful supermini with European flair, solid build quality, and engaging driving dynamics, especially with the updated styling and improved tech package.
Q: What engine does the new Ford Fiesta have?
The updated Ford Fiesta features a 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine with mild hybrid technology, producing 114 kW and offering both six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission options.
Q: How does the Ford Fiesta compare to the Volkswagen Polo?
The Ford Fiesta offers more engaging handling and a more distinctive character compared to the VW Polo, though the Polo edges ahead slightly in interior space and resale value considerations in the South African market.
Q: What trim levels are available for the Ford Fiesta in South Africa?
Ford South Africa offers the Fiesta in just two trim levels, Trend and Titanium, which is more limited than international markets that get ST-Line, Active, and Vignale variants.
Should You Buy It?
The best European supermini under R450,000 in SA is definitely the facelifted Ford Fiesta. At R389,900 for the Trend and R449,900 for the Titanium, it offers genuine character, sharp handling, and now comes with LED headlights as standard plus that punchy 114 kW mild-hybrid engine. Sure, it's a bit pricier than some rivals, but you're paying for proper European engineering and driving dynamics that'll put a smile on your face every morning. If you want a small car that doesn't feel like a compromise, the Fiesta is your answer. Just don't expect the practicality of a Polo or the rock-bottom running costs of a Japanese rival, but for sheer driving pleasure in the supermini class, this Blue Oval gem is hard to beat.
