What has more power per litre than a Lamborghini Aventador? A hint; the Lambo makes 108 hp per litre.
The answer is the 2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L. This pint sized engine makes a remarkable 123 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, from 3 cylinders.
Even better is the estimated fuel economy of 31 city/43 highway mpg or 7.6/5.5 L/100 km.
The Fiesta showcases the future of Ford products. With the increasing demands for less emissions and the lessening oil supply, smaller is smarter.
By utilising technologies like direct injection and turbo charging, the cars of the future are sure to be efficient and fun.
The 1.0L engine comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission, and I think that’s great.
It reminds me of the original Mini, in that its diminutive size makes it a blast to drive, sort of a go-kart for the road.
According to Car And Driver, “The little Fiesta inspires confidence in fast corners, and if there’s understeer, there’s also precision—the driver can place the car exactly as desired, a comforting trait in 80-mph sweepers. “
Of course not everyone is comfortable with a manual gear box. So Ford also has an automatic.
The problem is it is only available with the larger engine.
The engine in question is the 1.6L 4 cylinder. What may surprise you is the extra displacement does not equal more power.
The 1.6L can only muster 120 hp and 112 lb-ft of torque.
The fuel economy is worse despite the lower output as well. It is estimated to return 28 city/38 highway mpg or 8.4/6.2 L/100 km.
In the sprawling and crowded urban environments most of us live in, a small car makes practical sense. Parking the Fiesta will be easy. With a length of 173.5 inches(sedan) and a width of only 67.8 inches, it will squeeze into any spot no matter how badly the SUV’s on either side are situated.
The Fiesta is available as sedan or hatchback. They both offer the same occupant space, but the hatchback offers 2.1 cu.ft. more cargo space; a total of 14.9 cu.ft.
The interior is smart in its layout, with enough room for 4 adults, trying to squish in 5 will result in an argument.
For a basic car the Fiesta offers a lot of standard technology.
“This car was built for the digital generation,” said John Schneider, Ford chief engineer, Upperbody Electronics. “With Bluetooth® connectivity and MP3 capabilities, tech-savvy people who use social media to be constantly connected with the world around them won’t be slowed down when they get in this car.”
Much of the tech is focused on safety. It comes with ABS, airbags – for driver’s knee’s, side curtain, side impact, dual stage front -, stability control, and tire pressure monitoring.
One option that will appeal to parents of teen drivers is the “MyKey” function.
This allows parents to limit the top speed and maximum radio volume. It will also mute the radio until the teens have fastened their seatbelts.
All in all the 2015 Ford Fiesta is a smart little car that offers efficient and practical transportation without sacrificing the simple joy of driving.
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