Fast Fiesta ticks boxes

The previous-generation Ford Fiesta ST had a special place in the hearts of hothatch lovers.

Its 180bhp may have been down on some rivals, but it was quick enough, and a glorious chassis made it one of the besthandling hot hatches ever made.

So the latest version based on the allnew Fiesta has a lot to live up to.

It certainly looks the business. A deep front bumper, prominent side skirts and a twin exhaust indicate that it’s something a little more special than your typical supermini.

You get 17-inch wheels as standard, and there are three drive modes – Normal, Sport and Track.

Engine size is down, but power is up. The old 1.6-litre unit has been replaced with a 1.5-litre engine that develops 197bhp.

That’s enough to haul the little car from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 144mph.

An increase in torque and a change in gear ratios means the power is much more accessible lower down.

No longer do you have to wait for the revs to build before you make much progress – bury the throttle at low revs and the car surges forward.

The flip side is the last 1,000rpm doesn’t deliver much extra oomph.

Those who like to live life on the red line may not like that, but I found its power more usable than in the old car.

The previous Fiesta ST handled beautifully and the new one does as well.

None of its rivals can match it for agility and suppleness.

Such is its allure that on a late-night drive back from St Andrews to Dundee, I couldn’t resist diving off down some deserted country lanes instead of taking the easy route home.

Inside, wraparound sports seats hold you in place while still providing enough comfort for longer journeys.

Prices start at just under £19,000, making it a very-good-value proposition.

The new Fiesta ST makes a great case as the king of supermini hot hatches.

The new Ford Fiesta ST gets more power and a range of driving modes.