Overview & Reviews

Unlike buying a sports car or luxury cruiser, purchasing an economy car isn't usually an occasion to celebrate. Yet with belt-tightening just about everywhere you look, the virtues of value and fuel efficiency are becoming just as important and appealing as eye-watering acceleration and sumptuous comfort. Ford tapped into these potentially changing tastes with its subcompact Fiesta.

The Ford Fiesta provides levels of refinement, sportiness and style that not too long ago were unthinkable in the economy class. We've found that the entry-level Ford boasts not only impressive comfort, enjoyable driving dynamics and an inviting cabin but also unexpected features like keyless ignition and Ford's Sync system. In other words, the Ford Fiesta is a winner. Even if you never thought you'd drive a subcompact car, it may be time to reconsider.

Current Ford Fiesta
The four-door Ford Fiesta subcompact is offered as a sedan and hatchback in S, SE and Titanium trim levels. The high-performance ST model is available only as a hatchback.

All but the ST come standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, but a six-speed automated manual is optional. Optional for the SE is a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine that makes 123 hp. It only comes with a five-speed manual transmission and boasts an impressive estimated 37 mpg combined. The ST boasts a turbocharged 1.6-liter four with 197 hp and comes only with a six-speed manual. With a 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds, the ST is a quick little car.

The S trim's standard features include a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, power locks and mirrors, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an audio system with a CD player and an iPod/USB interface. The SE adds keyless entry, power windows, cruise control, a trip computer, a front center armrest and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Titanium's added highlights, some of which are optional on the SE, include alloy wheels, foglamps, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, the MyFord Touch interface, Sync Services (traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions) and an upgraded audio system with both satellite and HD radio. The Fiesta ST's perks include unique bodywork, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels, high performance tires, quicker steering, upgraded brakes and sport seats.

Inside, the Fiesta features a soft-touch dash and tight construction that impart a feeling of quality normally lacking in an entry-level car. The Fiesta's controls, especially for the stereo, can be a bit confusing even for the technologically minded, but are at least well placed. In terms of backseat and cargo space, the sedan is competitive with its rivals but the hatchback offers considerably less capacity than Honda's Fit.

On the road, the standard 1.6-liter inline-4 provides refined performance, and with either transmission gets the Fiesta to 60 mph in about 9.5 seconds. The available turbocharged inline-3 is a real gem, providing strong fuel economy, an energetic engine note and exceptional acceleration for the segment. Of course, the ST's power plant is the real thriller in a segment not known for pulse-quickening rides. Regardless of which version you get, the Fiesta boasts excellent steering response and suspension tuning that yields an ideal ride-and-handling balance. Handling is even sharper in the ST and although the ride is firmer as well, it's not too stiff for daily driver duty.

Used Ford Fiesta Models
The current-generation Fiesta bowed for 2011 and was essentially unchanged through 2013. Although otherwise similar, these Fiestas had slightly different styling and did not offer the MyFord Touch electronics interface, ST model or the turbocharged three-cylinder engine.

User Reviews:

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  Had problems since day one, Ford needs to buy back - 2012 Ford Fiesta
  By Rose - September 5 - 9:57 am

  We have had transmission problems since day 1, they always tell us it is fixed and it never is. It has spend so much time in the garage that Ford should be making some of my payments for me. I dont complain often about vehicles because I know things can go wrong with anything mechanical but please listen when i say dont buy an automatic transmission fiesta from 2012. This vehicle has had so many recalls and they are still attempting to repair the transmission after the 30th time at the garage. Just got it back a week ago and back it goes again next week for the SAME issue. I can say it is very economical on gas when we do have it to drive. The other upside is that i have never been stranded with the vehicle, the transmission just doesnt work right.

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  SLIPS & SHUDDERS in low gears !!!! - 2013 Ford Fiesta
  By K Turk - August 28 - 1:30 am

  Vehicle has known problems with the 6 speed automatic clutch assembly. They have so many widespread problems that the primary component is back ordered with Ford Motor Company for many months. The unit slips and shudders at slow speeds. Internet search this problem and you will clearly see this is NOT the vehicle to purchase !!! The first time the car was in for this issue the dealership had my vehicle 6 consecutive weeks.

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  Better then I ever expected - 2013 Ford Fiesta
  By Andre - August 27 - 2:45 pm

  I have had this car for around a month. I live in southern California and it has already been to South Dakota and back. The car was amazing during the 3000 mile round trip. Comfortable for as small as it is. Im a big guy and I fit nicely. The interior is very much better then I could.have hopped for. The soft touch feels better then cheap hard plastic. Im not a huge fan of the red lights I like the blue of the newer models. The accent lighting is a useless touch but makes the car stylish. The 6 speaker sound system Id amazing. Great bass, and clear highs. A big plus was no rattling from the speakers. The sound system is a little confusing and hard to use but works very well. Interior road noise is heard but not over the top. Engine noise is very present but in a way that makes you want to work it. The engine revs to redline very smoothly. It feels at home at higher rpm. The Powershift transmission is different. It is weird and parking lot speeds but under hard acceleration it wakes up. There is almost no torque loss between shifts and is very eager to get moving. Its a great concept but needs some refinement. I swore Id never drive a small car again. But I am very happy with this little ford Fiesta. Ford did their homework with this car. Nothing better then a warm so Cal night by the beach moonroof open windows down music up. My advise, take a serious look at this car. Its heart is bigger then its size. I was able to get it to 105 mph and the car drove straight, and on corse. Breaking is on the weak side. Rear disk word have been a better option. Very happy with this little car.

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  fire fire - 2011 Ford Fiesta
  By Pamela Alavian - August 24 - 7:26 am

  I was in getting my hair done .tow and a half hours I opened my door and the whole console melted like a candle. It must have been a short in the power outlet. Ford better pay for this

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  Its no fiesta. - 2012 Ford Fiesta
  By JustSayNo - August 16 - 3:24 pm

  This is hands down, the worst car ever made. I have made cars with my Lego sets that are more reliable. Constant transmission problems along with a non functioning Sync system makes this car horrific. However, it is cute to look at but thats all it has going for it. Dont you dare buy this car!

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  Superior hot hatch - 2015 Ford Fiesta
  By Dan - August 15 - 10:40 pm

  I wanted something that was more fuel efficient than my lifted 05 Wrangler (which I traded in for the ST) that would be fun to drive, practical, and would not cost me a fortune. After extensive research and test driving 32 different cars over the span of a little over a year, I chose the Fiesta ST. This car really hits the sweet spot of efficiency, performance, and practicality. If I want to drive it hard this car is more than willing to play. If I want to be efficient, this car has no problem taking it easy. I particularly like the 6sp manual transmission feel and the VERY responsive brakes. Although my car is not tuned for greater performance, the aftermarket is booming for this car as well. In mixed driving I get 32.6mpg with 93 octane. Although I have not had the opportunity to take it on a long road trip Im very confident that if I use the cruise control and drive it intelligently, I could easily hit closer to 36mpg. I drove similar competitors from Subaru, VW, & Fiat...the Fiesta ST was the clear hands down winner. Im currently at 7K miles and am stoked anytime I get to drive this car anywhere. Truly outstanding in the hot hatch 4cyl turbo class! Strong suggestion: try out the Recaro seats before committing to buy the vehicle. I tried both Recaro & regular ST seats and opted for the regular seats. While Recaro makes excellent products, the seats in these get tight from side to side if you are normal to above normal width.

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  The worst car i ever had - 2012 Ford Fiesta
  By Sherita - August 12 - 10:18 am

  Great fuel mileage, but everything else sucks, had the car for 3years, and i have had to go back to dealership way to many to get repairs made, now my starter is gone out, i really regret buying this lemon

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  IT TRIED TO KILL ME, TWICE!! - 2011 Ford Fiesta
  By Laurie - August 7 - 10:17 pm

  You are taking your life in your hands when you buy this car! Not to mention the drivers around you. This car, a.k.a. killer should be on a recall list NOW! This "car" stalled on me, had it "fixed" and today (3 months later), I was almost ran over by an 18 wheeler because it stalled in heavy traffic. Luckily, both time I was able to roll off the road within seconds of my life. It is now at a Ford dealer, and with any luck,Ill be re-united with this piece of crap in 3 months, yes 3 months! I finally got them to let me have a loaner car since I have to travel to my doctor. How nice of them! I have contacted every agencies I could find and reported this car. If somebody hasnt died yet while driving this car....they will soon. Just pray it doesnt take some other poor drivers and their families with them. Ford has to step up NOW!.

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  Transmission, radio and electrical problems!! - 2012 Ford Fiesta
  By melinda - August 5 - 2:21 pm

  transmission awful it grinds up hills looses power on acceleration ! The radio works when it wants to , only controls 3,4 work on ac and heat 1,2 slower fan speeds do not work . Oil service light and low tire air lights stay on even if oil changed and air put in tires !! This car is a nightmare !! My first and LAST ford EVER !!!

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  Feels like a MUCH larger car - 2015 Ford Fiesta
  By Ted Schmitt - July 30 - 5:14 am

  First, I will preface this by saying that I traded a Miata for the Fiesta ST, so yes this car feels MUCH larger than it is. I bought the ST with the Recaro package, and I can understand how some people would say that the seats are uncomfortable, especially if the person is of larger size (Im 5-9 and 175lbs). These seats grip you like velcro in ALL situations, especially hard cornering - try them BEFORE you buy the car. I love them, but I drive "enthusiastically". They take some getting used to in the getting in/out process and I can easily understand how some would hate them. Im 54, and after a Miata they are really NO problem. The 6-speed manual transmission shifts like rowing a knife through honey, with very smooth clutch action although it does engage a bit close to the floor (this might change with more wear). The 8-speaker stereo does sound a bit tinny or thin on sound, but money spent with Crutchfield will fax that eventually. The exhaust note, while louder than lesser Fiestas, is not quite as "racy" as it could be given this cars mission, but that is entirely my opinion. Handling is top-notch (again, I came from a Miata), being extremely smooth and predictable. Corners can be taken at MUCH higher speeds than you think the car will handle due to the roll stability control (which can be switched off) you would swear it was rear-wheel-drive with gobs of grip. The car car has numerous safety-related add-ons, none of which I will address here - I didnt buy the car for being safe. If youre considering it, check out Fords website or Edmunds for the list of standard safety equipment. The best thing about this car? Turbo power. The rush from the Ecoboost engine is absolutely ADDICTING. That, combined with the engine sound coming into the cabin will have you feeling and driving like youre back in high school (and I mean that is a good thing). Bottom-line, if you want some "civilized" performance while being able to carry three passengers and you want to buy a domestic car (yes, I know the Fiesta is assembled in Mexico) with top-notch quality, your search ends here.