Funky Fiesta is still great buy
ALTHOUGH it’s slightly older than what we’re usually testing, our 2017 Ford Fiesta still offers a fun, yet comfortable driving experience. Its 1.0litre force-fed engine has, over the years, received numerous awards and is truly a real jewel of a powerplant. This four-year old Fiesta has only clocked up 48 820km thus far.
Our test unit seemed to be well cared-for and although we noticed a minor scratch here and there, it's not out of line with a 4-year-old used vehicle and certainly no deal breaker. Besides a steering wheel that probably needs a bit of cleaning the interior was otherwise still in a perfect condition. Overall the vehicle was well looked after and even the 195/45R16 tyres still displayed large amounts of tread and will not need replacing in a hurry.
As mentioned earlier, under the bonnet of this little Fiesta sits the award winning 1.0litre EcoBoost engine. In 2017 specification the little engine promises 92kW of power and a 170Nm of torque, fed to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. As strange as it might sound coming from a 1.0-litre engine, the Fiesta boasts excellent tractability which provides a smooth and effortless driving experience.
Outright performance is great too with the Fiesta capable of blasting from 0 to 100km/h 100km/h in around 9 seconds. And you have to love that 3-cylinder thrum when you push it hard. Most impressive though is the little Fiesta’s frugal fuel economy, quoted at just 4.3-litres per 100km, which you can achieve if you really nurse the accelerator pedal.
The Fiesta is loads of fun to drive, not only delivering enough power but also a chassis that can be thrown around with enthusiasm and confidence. This said, its also easy and effortless to drive on an everyday basis with good allround levels of comfort.
Like the engine, the sixspeed automatic gearbox proved equally refined and well matched to the engine’s characteristics, while steering-wheelmounted paddles are on hand for manual shifts when you are in a playful mood.
In Titanium form the Fiesta boasts quite a sporty, stylish and even well-appointed cabin.
You get a multi-media infotainment system in this 2017-model although it is still somewhat old school. The list of standard features included the following:
Climate control air-conditioning, electric windows, central locking, Bluetooth,
MP3 CD-player, USB connection and 12V port, on-board trip computer,f ront and side airbags (7), multi-media infotainment system, auto on headlights, PDC rear,keyless entry and go, heated seats- ISOFIX rear seats, multi-function steering wheel- Paddle shifters, cruise control, leather upholstery
You will notice that the interior is slightly smaller than the latest model Fiesta, although it is still more than roomy enough to accommodate four adults in comfort. So too the loading capacity of 276 litres compares well with many small hatches. The rear seats can also fold down for additional loading space when needed.
Even as an generation vehicle, this little Fiesta still offers a fun and a confidence-inspiring driving experience with the added benefit of frugal fuel economy and an interior packed with luxury features. And therefore, at just under R 220 000 this Fiesta Titanium remains a great little used car buy. We like its attractive styling and fantastic engine and we’ll forgive its tech being a bit old-school compared to latest Fiestas.