Ford has given its smallest performance car a makeover for 2022.
The new Ford Fiesta ST will arrive in Australia in the first quarter of 2022, with a new look, more interior technology, and a boost for the three-cylinder engine.
We’ll get to the new Mean Green option, but the big news in the Fiesta is under the skin.
The 1.5-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine has the same 147kW as before, but peak torque is up from 290Nm to 320Nm.
Like before, it’s front-wheel drive and packs a Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential.
There’s no automatic; a six-speed manual remains the only option.
Outside, the new Fiesta ST gets Matrix LED headlights with a revised signature, and a tweaked grille more in keeping with other Ford Performance models.
The tail lights now have dark surrounds, and there are fresh Mean Green and Boundless Blue colour options.
Also new is the shape of the grey inserts in the front bumper, as are the 18-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, a set of in-house designed sports seats replace the Recaro pews that were previously standard, designed to better balance day-to-day comfort with sporty bolstering.
Gone are the analogue dials of the current model, replaced by a configurable 12.3-inch display with unique ST graphics.
The 8.0-inch central screen remains, but gains live traffic updates for the satellite navigation system. It also gets FordPass Connect, which allows owners to check their fuel level, flash the lights, or track their car through a smartphone app.
Rear cross-traffic alert, a more advanced blind-spot monitor, and rear occupant alert have been added to the standard equipment list.
Overseas, wireless phone charging and a 10-speaker sound system will be optional. Local specifications haven’t been confirmed.
The current Fiesta ST was launched locally early in 2021, priced at $31,990 before on-road costs.
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It’s not clear if the higher-tech new model will be priced in line with its predecessor.
The outgoing model comes standard with the following features:
- Mechanical limited-slip differential
- Launch control
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and satellite navigation
- B&O Play 10-speaker premium sound system
- DAB+ digital radio
- LED headlights, daytime running lights and tail lights
- Selectable drive modes
- Leather and suede upholstery
- Recaro heated front sport seats
- Proximity entry with push-button start
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake and shifter
- Cruise control
- Ambient lighting
- Single-zone automatic climate control
- Alloy pedals
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Reversing camera with rear parking sensors
The only options are prestige paint ($650) and a panoramic roof ($2500).
