Upgraded Ford Fiesta ST revealed

Ford Australia’s pocket rocket, the Ford Fiesta ST, has just become even more desirable with details issued today of the updated MY22 model that brings improved engine performance, extra technology, new cabin features and styling revisions.

There’s no word on pricing for the refreshed pint-sized hot hatch, although the 2022 Ford Fiesta ST is likely to head north from its current starting price of $32,290 plus on-road costs when it touches down in the first quarter of next year.

The gutsy 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine continues to produce 147kW of power, however peak torque has increased to 320Nm (+30Nm) and is now delivered lower in the rev range from 1600-4000rpm.

It’s yet to be confirmed whether the MY22 Fiesta ST’s higher output will translate to a lower 0-100km/h sprint time, which is currently 6.5 seconds when driving through the standard six-speed manual gearbox.

On the technology front, the 2022 Fiesta ST will be fitted with Matrix LED headlights that are said to bring glare-free high beam functionality and “better visibility in challenging conditions”.

Similar to the Matrix lights found on vehicles from premium brands, Ford says the Fiesta ST’s new headlights can detect oncoming traffic via a front-mounted camera and create an LED beam pattern that blocks the high beam rays from other road users.

The upgraded ST also features a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that brings more options for personalisation as well as dedicated themes for each drive mode (Normal, Sport and Track).

Local hazard information is also now part of the updated system, warning drivers of potential incidents and providing safety information via connected services.

The other headline cabin item on the updated ST is the fitment of new Performance Seats.

Ford says the seats were developed in-house and bring more comfort and support as well as an integrated head restraint and 14-way electric adjustment for the driver.

These replace the previous model’s Recaro sports seats.

In line with the latest Australian Design Rule (ADR) regulations, a rear occupant alert is also now fitted for the first time.

Styling-wise, Ford says a redesigned bonnet increases the height of the ST’s nose, while the Blue Oval badge is integrated into a larger honeycomb grille instead of being mounted on the bonnet lip as before.

At the rear, the tail-lights feature new black surrounds but are otherwise unchanged and the Fiesta ST continues to ride on 18-inch wheels, finished in a dark Magnetite grey hue.

There’s also two new exterior colour options – Boundless Blue and Mean Green – for MY22 models.  

Watch out for full local specs and pricing issued closer to the launch of the 2022 Ford Fiesta ST early next year.