(continued from above)
Customers have clamored for a new Fiesta ST since the last model disappeared
from European showrooms in 2008. The all-new model will take Fiesta ST
performance to a new level. The numbers tell the story: 180 hp 1.6-liter
EcoBoost, 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) of torque, 0-100 km/h in under seven seconds, and
top speed of more than 137 mph (220 km/h). At the same time, the EcoBoost
technology delivers a 20 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared with the
previous Fiesta ST.
Developed by Ford's Team RS, the new Fiesta ST delivers significant
ride-and-handling improvements through the introduction of a specially tuned
chassis that sits 15mm lower than the standard Fiesta; Ford's enhanced Torque
Vectoring Control system; and three Electronic Stability Control modes. The
technologies were put to the test over 5000 kilometers of driving on Germany's
Nurburgring Nordschleife.
"We believe Ford customers will be blown away by the new Fiesta ST, and not only
by the exhilarating performance but by the styling and specification, too. This
dynamic new hot-hatch is undoubtedly our best Fiesta ST to date," said Jost
Capito, Ford's director of Global Performance Vehicles.
The high-contrast interior features unprecedented levels of equipment and
specification to suit the sporting driver, with standard Recaro sports seats
appearing in a Fiesta ST for the first time. It also will be equipped with MyKey,
which allows owners to limit performance and ensure activation of safety
features for when less-experienced drivers use the vehicle; and SYNC, Ford's
voice-activated in-car connectivity system. A new bold and dynamic exterior
design drives home the high performance message and features the latest Ford
design signatures including a large trapezoidal grille.
The new Fiesta ST was engineered using Ford's global Performance Car DNA and
developed by Ford Team RS, the European arm of the company's Global Performance
Vehicles group.
The experience of the engineering team in working with Ford's motorsport
partners to develop the Fiesta RS WRC, Fiesta Rallycross and Racing Fiesta
vehicles, also proved invaluable for developing the new Fiesta ST.
With production of the new Fiesta ST confirmed for Europe, Ford also remains
open to the idea of introducing the high-performance small car to other regions,
including North America for the first time following a highly positive response
to the five-door Fiesta ST concept that made its North American debut at the
2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.
2013 Ford Fiesta ST, rear view.
