Ford Fiesta Facelift and B-Max in the Works

Ford’s European division is planing to launch an offensive in the B segment of the market, in an effort to grab a bigger slice of the market share pie.

In the next two years, the automotive producer will offer a facelift for the Fiesta model, which has been well-received by both the public and the media. In addition to that, the company will unveil a compact MPV, which will use the B-Max name.

The Ford Fiesta’s refresh is expected to come in 2012, with the modifications targeting both the aesthetic and the technical sides. The Fiesta is expected to come with a set of styling changes that are similar to those brought by the facelift of the S-Max model. One special feature will be the addition of LED daytime running lights, which are expected to be positioned just above the fog lamps.

The changes under the bonnet will bring new Ecoboost downsized engines. At the entry level of the range we’ll find a 90 hp three-cylinder unit, while at the other end of the scale Ford will offer a 1.6 liter turbocharged unit developing 180 hp. The latter will be the fitted in the ST hot hatch version.

As for the B-Max MPV, this is expected to make its debut at next year’s Geneva Auto Show (March). The vehicle will replace the Fusion model. It will share its platform and powerplants with the Fiesta and will have a length of around 4 meters. The vehicle will be produced at the company’s Craiova plant in Romania.