Ford Performance has announced the next-generation Fiesta ST, powered by an all-new 1.5-litre 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine which delivers 200bhp of power, 290Nm of torque and anticipated 0‑100km/h acceleration in 6.7 seconds.
The third generation of Fiesta ST will be the first-ever Ford Performance model powered by a 3-cylinder engine, and the first Fiesta ST to feature selectable Drive Modes which enable engine, steering and stability controls to be configured to Normal, Sport and Track settings for an optimised fun-to-drive experience in different conditions, from motorways to track days.
The Drive Modes will also adjust the Fiesta ST’s Electronic Sound Enhancement (ESE) technology and active exhaust noise control valve to deliver an even more satisfying driving experience. The technologies amplify the naturally sporty sound of the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine that also features Ford’s industry-first cylinder deactivation system for a 3-cylinder engine, for further reduced CO2 emissions of about 114g/km.
Available from launch in early 2018 in both three-door and five-door bodystyles, the next-generation Fiesta ST will be offered with a greater variety of interior trim and personalisation options than ever before, with bold and distinctive exterior styling that includes a unique racecar-inspired mesh grille and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.
The selectable Drive Modes add even more versatility for the American pocket rocket, enabling drivers to optimise the driving experience to suit scenarios from the school run to the racetrack.
In Normal mode, the engine mapping, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), ESE, exhaust sound and electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) are configured to deliver natural responsiveness and a connected feel.
In Sport mode, the engine mapping and throttle pedal response are sharpened, and EPAS settings adjusted to deliver more feedback and finer control for fast road driving. The active noise control valve opens and ESE is adjusted to intensify the sporty exhaust note and engine noise within the cabin
In Track mode, all vehicle dynamics features are tuned for the fastest possible lap times, traction control is disabled and ESC interventions are set to wide-slip mode for hard circuit driving
The agile and responsive Ford Performance-tuned chassis will be supported by enhanced Torque Vectoring Control technology that improves roadholding and reduces understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering. The three-mode ESC will enable drivers to choose between full system intervention, wide-slip mode with limited intervention, and full system de-activation.
The latest Fiesta ST offers more personalisation options than ever before. Customers will be able to choose from a range of trim elements for the gearlever, steering wheel, door pulls and dashboard decor, and select from distinctive styling packs.
The ergonomic interior features supportive Recaro seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. Exterior colour options will include new Liquid Blue and the new Fiesta ST will feature exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. 
Ford’s European-American supermini has been around for 40 years and counting.
We compare the Ford Fiesta against the Peugeot 208, Renault Clio and Volkswagen Polo.
