The seventh-generation Ford Fiesta was recently unveiled in Germany, sporting a fresh new look. It is expected roll out to initial markets in the first half of 2017 (exactly when it will arrive in South Africa remains to be seen).
However, Ford has not released very much in terms of specifications or technical details (well, they have now). Still, here are five things we think you should know about the latest version of the B-segment hatchback, which is based on the same Global B platform as the current model.
1. There’s a crossover-styled variant
Not content to let Volkswagen have all the fun with its Cross Polo, Ford has revealed that a crossover-styled Fiesta will be part of the seventh-generation range. Called the Fiesta “Active”, this variant gains a slightly raised ride-height, some black body cladding (plus skid-plates front and rear) and subtle roof-rails. Question is, will it cannibalise EcoSport sales?
2. The 1,0-litre will boast cylinder deactivation tech
Ford’s familiar 1,0-litre EcoBoost mill makes use of a trio of cylinders. But the brand reckons there are times when even three is too many. So, it plans to – in early 2018 – introduce cylinder deactivation technology to this little turbo-triple, allowing one of the cylinders to shut down when coasting or cruising with light demand on the engine. And that, in theory, will cut emissions and improve fuel economy.
3. There’s now a large touchscreen
The current Fiesta’s facia is somewhat button-heavy. But the first images of the new model’s cabin – admittedly in posh Vignale and ST-Line trim – show a major overhaul, including the addition of an eight-inch touchscreen. This display “floats” in the centre of the dash, and will run with Ford’s SYNC 3 tech.
4. It will feature big-car safety tech
Ford has described the new Fiesta as the “most advanced small car in the world”. Indeed, rumour has it that the savings made possible by utilising the current model’s platform (rather than engineering new underpinnings) have been poured into new tech. This is said to include driver assistance systems such as park assistance, blind-spot detection, cross traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance and even an “anti-collision system”.
5. A new diesel mill may be on the way
As we pointed out earlier, Ford has kept its cards very close to its chest in terms of technical specs. But it seems the brand will add at least one new engine to its Fiesta line-up, in the form of a fresh, high-output TDCi mill. Little is known about this turbo-diesel, although it is clear that its outputs will easily eclipse the current 1,5-litre oil-burner’s 55 kW and 185 N.m…
