autoevolution
 

2012 Ford Fiesta ST Production Version Presented, US Launch Considered

The hot hatch segment has exploded over the last few years and today these machines offer a level of performance that was not imaginable in their segment two generations ago. While the full-scale hot hatches are moving into sports car performance territory, the vacant place they leave behind is being occupied by subcompacts. Case in point with the all-new Ford Fiesta ST, which is being presented online in the production version just before its bare metal debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
2012 Ford Fiesta ST 14 photos
Photo: Ford
2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST2012 Ford Fiesta ST
Up front, we get a 1.6-litet Ecoboost turbocharged four that delivers 180 hp and a peak torque of 240 Nm (177 lb-ft), which sends its power to the front axle using a six-speed manual. The vehicle comes with goodies such as a Torque Vectoring and an Electronic Stability Control, which allow it to put the power down.

The vehicle needs under seven seconds to cover the 0 to 62 mph sprint and delivers a top speed of 136 mph (219 km/h), as well as coming with a 20 percent CO2 emissions reduction compared to the previous generation, which only placed 150 hp at the driver’s right foot.

The Fiesta ST also rides 15 mm close to the road, compared to the standard model, thanks to the use of a new suspension setup.

The vehicle can be recognized by its exterior kit, which includes a honeycomb grille with an “ST” badge, a new rear bumper, side skirts, as well as a roof spoiler. Climbing inside the car, we are treated with a pair of leather-finished Recaro seats, a new steering wheel and sporty trimming.

The new Fiesta ST will hit the European market later this year or early in 2013 and since Ford has united its Euro and US performance divisions, the carmaker is also considering offering the car in America.

PS: fans of the old ST will be happy to take a look at the rear headrests, which somehow bring back memories of that model.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Andrei Tutu
Andrei Tutu profile photo

In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories