New Ford Fiesta revealed with more technology and mild-hybrid power

Ford has just unveiled the new Fiesta, bringing a refreshed appearance and substantially more technology while retaining its mild-hybrid focus.

The updated Fiesta makes its first impression on the outside. Key changes include standard LED headlamps, a bonnet design that raises the front section, and a larger grille with redesigned contours. The Ford badge is now positioned within the grille rather than being “stuck” between the bonnet and grille.

As a result, the front end features more horizontal lines, creating a stronger impression of width and helping to reinforce the model’s road presence.

Changes at the rear are more restrained, with the main highlight being the new black surrounds for the rear lights, which can optionally be specified with LED technology.

As has always been the case, the various Fiesta versions adopt their own distinct styling. Connected models feature a broad upper grille filled with sturdy horizontal bars, a high-gloss chrome surround and distinctive side openings. Meanwhile, the Ford Performance-inspired ST-Line adds a black honeycomb grille and wider side skirts for an even sportier character.

Finally, the Active variant continues to stand out by “offering” more rugged visual elements that emphasise the Fiesta’s adventurous nature. More prominent protective cladding, a raised stance and, naturally, roof rails are responsible for this look.

More technology and greater safety

It is inside, however, that the updated Fiesta has made its biggest step forward. It gains a new fully configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, paired with an 8-inch central touchscreen featuring SYNC 3 and smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

A wireless charging pad for smartphones is also available, along with a Bang & Olufsen audio system comprising 10 speakers, an integrated subwoofer and a 575 W digital signal-processing amplifier with surround-sound capability.

The new Fiesta also introduces further driver-assistance technologies, including the Wrong Way Alert function. It uses the windscreen-mounted camera together with navigation-system information to issue an audible and visual warning if the driver passes two no-entry signs when joining a motorway.

Also featured are active park assist, blind-spot detection with cross-traffic alert and active braking, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision assistant with active braking.

What about the engines?

There are no changes to the Fiesta engine range. Ford’s supermini continues with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid engine, equipped with a 48 V system and offered with 125 hp and 155 hp, alongside the 100 hp 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine.

Transmission choices consist of a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed Powershift dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Three driving modes are available - Normal, Sport and Eco - adjusting throttle response, stability and traction control, plus gearbox operation in automatic versions. The Fiesta Active adds two further settings: Trail and Slippery.

Fiesta ST remains “Mean” and… “Green”

Alongside the updated Fiesta, Ford also revealed the new Ford Performance-developed Fiesta ST.

Like the other Fiesta models, it receives new LED headlamps, but it adopts a more aggressive design incorporating a honeycomb-pattern grille and huge lower air intakes. The new Fiesta ST is visually striking and also features revised aerodynamics, with new side skirts, a redesigned rear spoiler and a more pronounced rear diffuser.

It also comes as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, while an 18-inch black-finished set is offered on the options list.

Inside, there are new Performance seats, a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, matt carbon-effect trim and several red accents, all of which underline this version’s sporting character.

Under the bonnet, it retains the 1.5-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, producing 200 hp at 6000 rpm and 320 Nm of peak torque - previously 290 Nm - between 1600 and 4000 rpm.

In addition to Normal and Sport driving modes, the new Fiesta ST also gains a Track mode. Replacing the standard Fiesta’s Eco mode, it switches off traction control and changes the ESC settings to “wide-slip” mode, aimed at circuit driving.