Ford reveals 2017 Fiesta

Ford has teased an image of its seventh-generation Fiesta supermini ahead of its official launch later today in Germany.

The single image of Fiesta ST Line, was released late last night ahead of today's reveal at 20:00 CET (4:00pm AEST).

Despite being claimed to be completely redesigned for 2017, the light-size hatch looks remarkably similar to the car it replaces, which is apt, because the small Ford is actually not all-new beneath the skin but based on the current car's platform.

More details are expected to be revealed later about how the new Fiesta will differ mechanically from the current car but we already know the small Ford will also have a more upmarket feel and come with new safety equipment like emergency autonomous braking, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring.

Inside, expect an all-new SYNC3-based touch-screen infotainment system and higher-grade materials.

Under the bonnet, it’s thought the engine range will largely consist of the firm’s turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine.

The range-topping 1.6-litre turbo that lives under the bonnet of the formidable Fiesta ST is also expected to live on in the new range.

Speaking following the announcement of the Fiesta’s imminent reveal, Ford of Europe’s boss said: “The new Fiesta will be our best expression of Ford — lovable fun, sporty to drive and with an unmatched personality true to the spirit of the iconic small car that has delighted generations of customers for the past 40 years”.

The seventh-generation Fiesta is almost certain to be imported to Australia, but our cars might arrive much later in 2017 -- or even early 2018 -- because our cars will continue to be sourced from Ford’s Thai-based factory, where production begins later than Europe.