PERFORMANCE

The phrase “dynamite comes in small packages” may as well have been created for the Fiesta ST, as its giant-beating levels of performance and driving thrills have earned it iconic status in the hot hatchback category.

The ST200 raises the stakes even further, with a raft of under-the-skin enhancements that make it exhilarating to drive. Most notably, the impressive 1.6-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine has gained additional muscle, with peak power climbing from 134 to 149kW.

Maximum torque jumps from the standard car’s 240Nm to 290Nm. A further 11kW and 30Nm are available for up to 20 seconds using the engine’s transient overboost.

Additionally, the quick-shifting six-speed manual transmission receives a shorter final drive ratio (reduced from 3.82 to 4.06) for im- proved drivability, guaranteeing even greater thrills and fun-factor behind the wheel. This makes the ST200 capable of scorching from standstill to 100km/h in a mere 6.7 seconds.

The ST200 isn’t just quick off the mark – it has impressive overtaking acceleration too. It takes just 5.2 sec to blast from 50 to 100km/h in fourth gear, while the top speed is electronically limited to 230km/h.

The driving experience is further optimised with an upgraded suspension. This includes a rear twistbeam with 27% more roll stiffness, an increase in diameter from 19 to 21mm for the front anti-roll bar and new damper specifications for better impact absorption.

Revised settings have also been adopted for the Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to improve cornering feedback and control – all of which elevates the ST200’s award-winning handling and ride quality to new heights.