New Fiesta grows bolder

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), April 4, 2008

Byline: By ROGER MILLS

THE Ford Fiesta seems to have been around for ever, but in fact it's only just over 30 years.

The latest model is much better looking than the one it replaces in both three and five-door forms.

It's based loosely on the Verve concept with sweeping lines, a bold new face, and low rear roof line.

Ford is promising that it will be fun to drive and with electric power steering to help and other recent Fords to go by, I'm looking forward to driving it.

There are four petrol engines to choose from, with power ranging from 59bhp to 1 13bhp. Diesel buyers can choose between a 67bhp 1.4 or an 88bhp 1.6 but the lower powered one is likely to be slow.

All Fiestas will have a five-speed manual gearbox, although a four-speed automatic will be available.

Inside the styling details of the new model include a centre instrument display, which Ford says takes its inspiration from the layout of a mobile phone keypad.

Optional equipment includes keyless entry, Bluetooth and Ford's Convers system, which allows the driver to control the car's music and satellite-navigation from the steering wheel.

Facts and figures

Make: Ford

Model: Fiesta 1.6 diesel

Price: from about pounds 8,500

Mechanical: 88bhp, 1,590cc, 4 cylinder diesel driving front wheels via 5 speed manual gearbox

Combined mpg: 60

Insurance group: 5

BIK: Approximately 18%

Warranty: 3 years,

60,000miles, 8 years anti-rust

Marks: Looking good - probably 9/10

Main Rival: Vauxhall Corsa

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CONTOURS - the new Fiesta. Ford promises it will be fun to drive