The wraps have come off of the next Ford Fiesta in Cologne, Germany. While the vehicles pictured here are all international spec, this new iteration provides a look at the upcoming U.S. Fiesta expected to launch sometime late next year as a 2018 model.
The automaker promised the Fiesta will offer better overall comfort and convenience as well as superior driving dynamics compared to the existing vehicle. Ford said the new Fiesta will also provide potential for greater personalization.
New level of sophistication
Currently Europe’s best-selling small car, the Fiesta makeover is evolutionary, bringing its exterior styling more into line with the larger Focus. In Euro spec, the eighth-generation Fiesta will come in four trim grades: a standard Titanium, luxury Vignale, performance-inspired ST-Line and a new Active version with a slightly higher ride height and a selection of crossover-oriented cues. Although Ford did not offer any hard dimensions or platform specifics, the new Fiesta is believed to be riding on an upgraded version of the automaker’s global B-platform that underpins the current car. Execs also noted that its more-refined cabin will boast slightly more space.
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Ford’s key strategic move for the next-gen Fiesta involves taking the entire line up a notch in sophistication. That change will be accompanied by the introduction of a host of new premium features that include Ford’s latest Sync3 infotainment system, including an 8.0-inch touchscreen on the Vignale that eliminates 20 function buttons from the center stack. It also will offer the full suite of Ford Apps and a panoramic glass roof. Other features that will be joining the Fiesta mix include a B&O Play premium audio system and 15 new driver assists, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, active park assist and autonomous braking.
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No definitive word on powertrains even for Europe, although we do know the Fiesta will be available with a new version of Ford’s 1.0-liter/3-cylinder EcoBoost that offers cylinder deactivation for even greater fuel efficiency. It’s also seems certain to continue on with both a naturally aspirated standard 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine as well as a high-output ST-spec EcoBoost alternative, and all three of those should turn up in the U.S.
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