Ford Fiesta ST 2013 Review

The new Ford Fiesta ST is one of the best value go-fast hatchbacks we've driven, and right now it's the probably the best hot hatch in its class. Delivering almost unbeatable bang for your buck at $25,990, the Fiesta ST makes all the right noises and has all the best moves.

A true halo model in every sense, it is based on the humble Fiesta, Ford's smallest car, but adds sportier, stiffer suspension that drops the car by 15mm lowering its centre of gravity, bigger wheels and tyres that improve grip and more direct steering that makes it more satisfying to drive.

Tuned by Ford's European-based Team RS -- the same hot-shop that delivered the Focus RS and ST models -- the Fiesta ST might be its best creation yet.

Powered by one of the best engines we've ever tested in a compact car, the Fiesta ST's responsive, melodious 1.6-litre EcoBoost turbo-petrol engine thumps out a very handy 132kW/240Nm, which rises to 149kW/290Nm for up to 20 seconds thanks to the 'overboost' function. And to be frank, it feels like a 149kW pocket rocket most of the time.

After a quick walk around of the Fiesta ST, which looks suitably sporty thanks to the facelifted WZ Fiesta's new visage, we drop into body-hugging Recaro seats -- a first for Fiesta -- and tickle the alloy pedals. From that moment on you get a sense of the car's purpose.

Nail the accelerator and you’re met with a jet-engine acoustic as Fiesta ST rips to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds, and on to a top speed of 226km/h. The engine sound reaches the driver's ears via 'sound symposer' that amplifies pure four-cylinder anger in an organic fashion, unlike some Audis, BMWs and Lexus’ that use speakers to increase the volume.

The engine is fiery but smooth, and with several gizmos working at the front-end to reduce wheelspin and torque steer, it transfers power to the front wheels beautifully. Indeed, this pint-sized sports hatch punches out of corners with vehemence, it's well-rounded mid-range joined by a heady top end that doesn't taper until it hits the 6400rpm rev limiter.

The six-speed manual gearbox is a good partner for the engine, snicking through gears quickly. It's not perfect though. It could have done with a bit more resistance between shifts, and there's a chasm between the ratio of second and third gears. On the flip side, the engine is so flexible you can leave it in third and ride the juicy torque wave!

Criticisms can also be levelled at the firm ride. While this does improve its attitude through corners and reduces body roll, a bit more compliance wouldn't hurt, as the wheels crash loudly over large bumps and potholes. It's also available exclusively as a three-door model in Australia, which could limit its appeal. That said, it's not too hard getting in and out of the back seat.

What the car does best, however, is slice through corners with such zeal it'll make you laugh and smile the whole time.

It's easy to drive fast as the steering is good and communicative. You can feel exactly what the car's front end is doing, even from the passenger seat! It tips into corners seamlessly, with no hint of understeer due to its uniquely tuned front steering knuckle and enhanced torque vectoring control, or eTVC. The latter applies subtle brake force to the inside front wheel and works a treat at keeping the car headed in the desired direction.

Ford's mini hot hatch is a very malleable car, its small footprint ensuring you can place it where you want to on the road. Indeed, it is very quick from point to point on twisting, snaking roads, though the car's 1197kg kerb weight is felt during quick changes of direction. In true hot hatch fashion there is a level lift-off oversteer, and the car inspires confidence with its point and shoot attitude.

It's such an exuberant little car, with a tenacious character that's difficult to resist, and easy to indulge. Even the stability control is great. It's so seamless in its intervention, doesn't upset your rhythm, and has three modes to boot: on, Sport and off. Seven airbags are also standard, which help it achieve a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating.

The $26K price of this German-built wunder-kid undercuts direct rivals like the Volkswagen Polo GTI by $3200 and the new Peugeot 208 GTi by $4000. Better still it offers fixed price servicing for seven years and relatively low fuel usage, claimed at 6.2L/100km.

It's the kind of car that would still be a bargain at $30,000, with techy features like the debut of MyKey, which makes use of a second programmable key fob that restricts the car's speed and ancillary systems should the owner not trust a mate or younger driver with the car. It will even cut off fuel delivery and call 000 if the car crashes, adding peace of mind.

Standard features are impressive too, comprising a Sony stereo, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity with SYNC voice control, cruise control, keyless entry and engine start, automatic wipers and headlights, rear parking sensors, USB/iPod ports, steering wheel audio controls, and funky ambient interior lighting.

Throw in tough new exterior visuals like five-spoke 17-inch alloys, a ground-hugging body kit, roof spoiler, twin exhaust pipes and LED daytime running lights and you're looking at a very tidy and affordable package.

The fact that it is a riot to drive, with an excellent turbocharged engine and ludicrously engaging dynamics only sweetens the deal; the Ford Fiesta ST is not perfect, but it's oh-so-close.

- More photos at motoring.com.au in our Ford Fiesta ST gallery

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