Make a s Smart move
GILES BLAIR explains why a mild-hybrid Ford Fiesta will appeal to many motorists
THE Ford Fiesta in Titanium spec proves that a stylish supermini with clever hybrid technology is very affordable.
The blue oval badged car I had on test recently, featuring the 1.0-litre EcoBoost mild-hybrid petrol engine, costs from just £19,860 on the road.
The hybrid technology consists of a small electric motor and 48-volt battery that provides extra power to the engine when needed.
And there is no need to plug it in because the system captures energy created while braking to recharge the battery.
The end result is that the 125PS powertrain, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, is more fuel-efficient and has lower tailpipe emissions than it might do otherwise.
So this Fiesta will officially average 55.4mpg, a figure I got pretty close to during my week at the wheel, with CO2 levels pegged back to just 115g/km.
With the sprint to 62mph taking 9.4 seconds, this supermini is ideal for smooth and relaxing driving. But a top speed of 126mph means it will also happily cruise for hours on the motorway.
There are also three driving modes – normal, eco and sport – so you can choose to make the most of the fuel economy or enjoy a more peppy performance.
The steering feedback is very good, as are the brakes, while the suspension does a great job of ensuring you don’t suffer a bumpy ride.
I was also very impressed by the amount of creature comforts and driver aids that come as standard with the Titanium Fiesta.
Top of the list is Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with its easy-to-use, three-way-split, eight-inch colour touchscreen that includes very clear satellite navigation.
The set-up features full smartphone integration, DAB radio, access to various car functions, an emergency assistance call feature, voice control, wi-fi for up to 10 devices and traffic information.
Then you have the likes of auto lights and wipers, cruise control with speed limiter, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors and front fog lamps with cornering lights.
An effective manual air con system includes Ford’s excellent Quickclear heated windscreen, while the electric door mirrors are also heated, power-foldable and feature puddle lights.
For my money, I would shell out the £900 for the optional Driver Assistance Pack – which represents excellent value.
It adds a 4.2in TFT instrument cluster, autonomous emergency braking, auto high beam, speed sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, driver alert and blind spot warning. The impressive pack also includes front parking sensors, a rear view camera and an advanced auto parking assistance function.
I felt the cabin was also very smart and well put together, and I appreciated the leather wrapped steering wheel, handbrake and gear knob, as well as the LED ambient lighting.
There is plenty of room for a family of four, while the 311-litre boot will easily take the weekly shop, golf trolley or a couple of cases.
The Fiesta is also one of the more attractive superminis around thanks to its flowing wedge shape and dynamic creases on the bonnet, roof and along the doors.
The Titanium enhances these looks with a chrome front grille and eye-catching trapezoid LED daytime running lights at the front.
Side on, the eye is drawn to the chrome lower window surround, rear privacy glass and 16in 10-spoke alloy wheels.
Rounding things off at the rear are a neat spoiler and the EcoBoost Hybrid badge that lets everyone know your car is smart in every way.
Ford Fiesta Titanium 1.0T EcoBoost MHEV 1.0-litre petrol/electric hybrid 125PS 126mph 9.4 seconds 55.4 115g/km Three years/60,000 miles £19,860