Ford of Europe has launched the most powerful version of its current generation light car yet. The Fiesta Sport Special Edition has been built to celebrate the model’s 35th anniversary. The bad news is, however, it’s not coming Down Under.
"We take Fiesta out of Thailand now not Europe, so this model won't be coming to Australia," said Ford Australia's Product Communications Manager for passenger vehicles, Justin Lacy.
"Unless something like this was available from the Thailand factory, I can't see this model coming to Australia. It's a special edition model for the local [European] market only."
This special edition vehicle is the closest Ford has come to delivering a next generation version of the Fiesta ST (aka XR4), presenting a sporty new look only one mild mechanical change, an exhaust tweak.
The 1.6-litre twin cam petrol engine outputs 98kW, which is nine kilowatts more than the standard version, and achieves it 400rpm higher than the standard versions at 6700rpm. Torque has risen as well, from 151 to 160Nm at 4250rpm, all of which sees the six-speed manual model accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.7 seconds, slightly quicker than the bog stocker.
The Sport Edition has a revised top speed of 195km/h.
Other new bits include a body kit comprising side skirts and updated front and rear aprons, plus chrome rear exhausts, lending the Ford Fiesta Sport Special Edition a more aggressive appearance than previous models. This theme is further heightened by Panther black 17-inch alloy wheels, though silver wheels are optional.
Eagle-eyed Fiestisti will spot other updates to the exterior such as silver fog lamp bezels, grille garnish and aerofoil, and Ford will only offer the Sport Special Edition as a three-door hatch, "further amplifying the sporty style".
Interior features fitted as standard include heated leather seats and a leather steering wheel, alloy pedals, a six-speaker stereo, custom floor mats and silver scuff plates.
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