Ford Fiesta Powershift Receives 40 mpg EPA Highway Rating

Ford’s new 2011 Fiesta is offering consumers a top level fuel economy figure, as the vehicle has received an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified 40 mpg rating, being the most fuel efficient car in its class.

The Ford Fiesta managed to achieve 40 mpg by using the company’s new (optional) six speed Powershift automatic transmission. In addition to that, the car uses twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), an aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff and an efficient engine accessory drive system for its 120 hp 1.6 liter engine.

"We worked hard to deliver the class-leading fuel economy Ford is becoming synonymous for," said Steve Pintar, Fiesta chief nameplate engineer. "To be the only vehicle in the segment to deliver 40 mpg is something we feel consumers will appreciate."

The Fiesta also features electric power-assisted steering and a number of aerodynamic optimizations that allow it to achieve the aforementioned performance. The latter not only allows the car to save fuel, but enables it to offer a reduced level of wind noise.

The standard Fiesta comes with a five speed manual transmission, with the vehicle being EPA rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.

"The new Fiesta is yet another car in Ford's lineup that delivers class-leading fuel economy," said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering. "From Super Duty to Fusion Hybrid and the new Mustang V-6, Ford is committed to fuel economy leadership with every new vehicle it introduces in all segments."