2nd Ford Fiesta
Supermini’s talent shines through in entry-level guise, but it’s just edged out here
THE Ford Fiesta is Britain’s best-selling car, and it’s easy to see why even with this lower-spec 1.1-litre model. It gets the formula just right: it’s fun to drive, fairly well equipped, economical and has plenty of space inside.
Those features aren’t changed by the engine under the bonnet, so this 1.1 non-turbo petrol, while underpowered next to Ford’s fantastic Ecoboost units, is still a decent choice.
Perhaps the Fiesta’s best feature is its chassis, because even in this low-spec trim level the car is great fun. There’s loads of grip, so while speed isn’t top of the agenda here, you can still enjoy driving through corners, thanks to the subtle feedback from the car. The Ibiza comes close; it’s also agile and its steering is direct, but it lacks the Ford’s sense of fun and adjustability.
While neither car performed strongly – these are the entry-level engines, after all – the Ford did beat the SEAT in most of our acceleration tests. It covered 0-60mph in 13.1 seconds, which was over two seconds up on the Ibiza’s 15.2-second time. Even a 5bhp hike won’t change that.
Perhaps more relevant to everyday driving is the 30-50mph time, and the Ford was faster here as well, in third and fourth gear. The Fiesta took 7.1 seconds in third and 11.7 seconds in fourth, comfortably ahead of the SEAT’S 7.9 and 13.2 seconds respectively. The new Ibiza won’t get any more torque, either, at 95Nm. Given the kerbweight stays the same, at 1,091kg, in-gear performance should be identical.
The Ford’s engine feels more responsive and eager here. However, the SEAT’S unit is smoother and at motorway speeds the Fiesta is noisier.
Alongside the handling, the Ford really comes into its own with the ride. Its suspension is great at absorbing bumps, which also adds up to strong refinement. This balance of dynamism and comfort is what sets the Fiesta apart in this class. It’s better to drive, but also more comfortable than the SEAT.
Interior quality is good, yet it’s here where the Ibiza makes up ground – it’s far more grown-up inside. There are more cheap-looking and feeling materials in the Ford, the design of the dash is plainer and the facia doesn’t have the more modern appearance of its Spanish rival.
Neither spec is particularly inspiring, and while you may be pleasantly surprised by the quality and kit you get for the price, it still trails the SEAT. Zetec trim brings air-conditioning, lane keep and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with smartphone tech.