Photo: SB-Medien
While some believed this prototype was a preview for the WRC-inspired Fiesta ST, we're convinced that it's just a chassis testing mule for the next generation of Ford's subcompact wonder.
We're calling it a wonder because even after so many years, the current generation hatchback is deemed by many to be the most engaging model in its segment. However, in all other regards, it's outclassed by its (mostly European) rivals.
The first thing that strikes us when looking at the test mule is how much bigger it is. Fans of the Fiesta can easily spot the added length in the front bumper and the fender flares that preview its wider tracks.
The current Fiesta is 3969mm long and 1709mm wide, with a height of 1468mm. That might have been good enough when it was launched, but the Renault Clio, Honda Jazz and Mazda2 are bigger.
However, if you look at the back end, it's got a piece of the chassis sticking out through the bumper. If we take crumple zones into account, the next Fiesta could have a rear overhang that's about 8 to 10 centimeters longer. The obvious reason for this is to give the car a much larger trunk, which is something that's faulted it since day one.
Speaking of which, we have to mention that the current generation dates back to 2008. We're expecting the new Fiesta to be ready by early 2017, by which time this model will have been around for 9 long years.
One area where Ford has always kept ahead of the pack is the engine department. Most Fiestas sold in Europe come with the 1-liter EcoBoost engine. We consider it a groundbreaking unit regarding downsizing and 3-cylinder turbo applications.
Even though Ford doesn't make huge profits with the Fiesta, it's a crucial model. A total of 131,254 Fiestas were sold in 2014 just in Britain. Frankly, that's a ridiculously high number. The model's role will change slightly due to the imminent return of the Ka to European showrooms as a 5-door hatch.
The success of the ST hot version could also pave the way for a hardcore RS that takes advantage of the wider tracks to compete with the MINI JCW and Audi S1.
The first thing that strikes us when looking at the test mule is how much bigger it is. Fans of the Fiesta can easily spot the added length in the front bumper and the fender flares that preview its wider tracks.
The current Fiesta is 3969mm long and 1709mm wide, with a height of 1468mm. That might have been good enough when it was launched, but the Renault Clio, Honda Jazz and Mazda2 are bigger.
However, if you look at the back end, it's got a piece of the chassis sticking out through the bumper. If we take crumple zones into account, the next Fiesta could have a rear overhang that's about 8 to 10 centimeters longer. The obvious reason for this is to give the car a much larger trunk, which is something that's faulted it since day one.
Speaking of which, we have to mention that the current generation dates back to 2008. We're expecting the new Fiesta to be ready by early 2017, by which time this model will have been around for 9 long years.
One area where Ford has always kept ahead of the pack is the engine department. Most Fiestas sold in Europe come with the 1-liter EcoBoost engine. We consider it a groundbreaking unit regarding downsizing and 3-cylinder turbo applications.
Even though Ford doesn't make huge profits with the Fiesta, it's a crucial model. A total of 131,254 Fiestas were sold in 2014 just in Britain. Frankly, that's a ridiculously high number. The model's role will change slightly due to the imminent return of the Ka to European showrooms as a 5-door hatch.
The success of the ST hot version could also pave the way for a hardcore RS that takes advantage of the wider tracks to compete with the MINI JCW and Audi S1.
Google News