Ford Fiesta review

The Ford Fiesta is one of the best-value small cars around. Not only is it very affordable, the Fiesta is also brilliant to drive, comfortable, well equipped and easy to live with.

It goes up against the likes of the Vauxhall Corsa, the Peugeot 208 and the Volkswagen Polo, but there’s a reason the Fiesta is continually one of the most popular cars in the UK: it just works perfectly for so many Brits.

There’s plenty of choice within the Fiesta range, too: not only can you buy it in three and five-door hatchback forms, there’s a rugged Active version and the sporty Fiesta ST hot hatchback too. We’ve reviewed those two models separately.

Entry-level Fiestas are smart enough, but it’s higher up the model range where things get interesting. The ST-Line Edition cars have a sporty look based on the Fiesta ST’s upgrades, while the Vignale Edition has a focus on luxury – it’s all chrome trim, leather upholstery and comfort here.

We like the Fiesta’s interior design, which isn’t as funky as something like a Citroen C3 but uses soft-touch plastics and good quality materials, so it feels well-built. Plus, Ford’s 8-inch SYNC3 touchscreen infotainment screen looks good and is easy to use.

The Fiesta is a lot of fun to drive for a small car – but you certainly won’t be smiling so hard if you’re asked to sit in the back seats

The Fiesta is spacious enough in the front, but the rear seats are a bit cramped. Three-door models aren’t very good for taking along passengers, but at least the five-door has better access. If you need to carry people in the back, though, a VW Polo or SEAT Ibiza would be a better option. The Ford also has a smaller boot than these alternatives.

The Fiesta is all about driving, though. The ST model is known for being a lot of fun, but even the most basic Fiestas are fantastic to drive, with great control weights, a good amount of grip and lots of composure on twisty roads.

The Ford’s six-speed manual gearbox is excellent. It has a slick shift action that adds to the fun, but it’s also nice and easy to use around town. Comfortable suspension and seats mean that it’s reasonably relaxing when you want it to be as well.

The engine range is mostly made up of 1.0-litre petrol engines. We reckon the 100hp version is the best because it has enough power for this small, light car to get up to speed easily, while also being fuel efficient and fun to use.

The Fiesta undercuts the VW Polo when it comes to equipment. Not only is it cheaper, it  gets more toys as standard – including that 8-inch screen, which comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Safety kit is good too, with a lane-keeping aid and hill start assist even on entry-level cars.

If the Ford Fiesta is good enough for millions of Brits, it’s bound to be worth your attention too, right? Head to our Ford Fiesta deals page to find one that’s right for you. You can also watch our video review of the Fiesta ST hot hatch by clicking the video below.