Track mode for 197bhp Fiesta ST

Ford has released details for the hot hatch version of the seventh-generation Fiesta.

The Fiesta ST is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with three cylinders that generates 197bhp.

Eagle-eyed readers will note that’s one cylinder fewer than the engine you’ll find in the outgoing Fiesta ST.

Despite this, the new model is both more powerful and faster than its predecessor, getting from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds. The ST is available with a suite of features designed to boost performance and handling.

There’s a choice of three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track, that change the character of the engine, steering, exhaust and traction control.

Track mode changes the point where the electronic stability control intervenes during extreme manoeuvres and turns the traction control off so the engine’s full power is always available.

Additionally, a torque-vectoring system can control the inside wheels as you take a corner, applying the brakes to pull the car around the bend and reduce the likelihood of running wide.

A limited-slip differential will be offered as an option, combining with Ford’s torque-vectoring technology to maximise the amount of grip available in corners.

Limited slip diffs are common on much more expensive hot hatches, such as the Volkswagen Golf R, and on high end sports cars, but are virtually unheard of on supermini-based hot hatches.

Launch-control software will also be optional, and improves the 0-62mph time by 0.2 seconds to 6.5 seconds.

The new ST also offers better fuel economy thanks in part to a system that can temporarily shut down one of the engine’s three cylinders when full performance isn’t needed.

Deactivating the cylinder takes just 14 milliseconds and doing so improves economy by 11%. Fiesta ST buyers can choose from three or five-door models. It will be easy to distinguish the ST from the regular model, thanks to new alloy wheels and red brake calipers. There’s also a mesh grille and a full bodykit with side skirts, unique bumpers and a large roof spoiler.

All cars come with either 17in or optional 18in wheels.

Inside, the myriad of buttons found in the old car is replaced by Ford’s eightinch touchscreen system.

A Bang & Olufsen stereo will be available as an option, as well as safety systems such as lane-keeping assistance and traffic-sign recognition.

Differentiating the interior from the standard Fiesta are a flat-bottomed steering wheel, Recaro sports seats and steering wheel, door handles and dashboard trim inserts.

The Fiesta ST goes on sale in the spring. Ford hasn’t released prices yet but expect the car to start from around the £19,000 mark.

jmckeown@thecourier.co.uk

The new Fiesta ST can get from 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds.