2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

Small Car with Big Hopes

Small form factor is becoming a mainstream commodity given its road convenience, lighter weight on the scale, and overall, better fuel economy. Speaking fuel economy, Ford went all out on this category by strapping on an engine nearly the size of a lawn mower. And who’s to say small cars have to be left cheap. The Fiesta even comes equipped with all the bells and whistles including leather seats, modern safety tech, and all-around multi-media amenities.

Multi-Tier Styling

At a first glance, the Fiesta more or less blends in with the rest of the society of cars on the road with simple lines, bubbly front hood with Ford’s signature front grille, compacted rear end, and of course, an overall short wheelbase to classify it into the small-scale hatchback category. However, if the whole small size 5-door hatchback doesn’t suit your taste, the Fiesta is also offered in the form of a sedan.

The ST trim model is where the Fiesta spices things up with performance-oriented styling including dual chrome exhaust tips, exclusive black ST front mesh grille, added rear-end spoiler and ST badging throughout. The ST trim is only available as a hatchback however – and I like it that way as it preserves a special and unique element to the name.

Looks wise, I don’t hate it, but neither will it invite jaw dropping looks on the road. In the end of the day, the Fiesta is a simple car for a simple car – that is, unless you opt for the ST.

Interior

Not too shabby as our tester came equipped with leather seating, Ford Sync multi-media and even a moon roof. Quality within it upper trim is consistent among its siblings within its fleet including the Focus and Escape. With that said, the quality treatment received in Ford’s lowest-level model is a pleasant reception.

Our tester was the second highest trim, Titanium, which is one stem below the ST. And the cabin space feels solid with with relatively good sound protection from exterior wind and road noise – no complaints here.

Performance

Powering the Fiesta is a miniature 1.6L twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) engine producing 120 horsepower and 112 lb.ft of torque with a 6-speed automatic transmission mated to its engine shaft. Ford also offers a 1.0L EcoBoost turbo-charged engine with improved fuel economy as an upgrade option.

The Fiesta ST receives special engine treatment using the 1.6L engine with an added turbocharger to boost its power output up to 197 horsepower and 202 lb.ft of torque.

Driving Characteristics

Throttle responsiveness is more sluggish than my liking. Yes, I know I am to lower my expectations especially given the fact that it’s got a small-size engine, but my guess is the unconventional independent variable cam timing working in its optimal engine combustion cycle limits engine power output on demand.

I am a bit disappointed with the handling as previous models had always embraced its ability in this realm. There is a significant amount of body roll, and steering response takes a fair bit of time to react to user input, essentially killing any hope for spirited driving.

Budget Priorities

Starting price for our Ford Titnaium is priced in starting at $20,599. This includes push-button engine start, Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a rear-view backup camera. It’s still relatively well priced given its added tech amenities and respectable interior quality. Where expectations fall short is the lack of performance handling – and this is where a small wheel short hatchback should really shine by default. But somehow, the Fiesta doesn’t manage to accomplish – that is unless you opt for the ST. Save up and throw in an extra $3,500 to buy you into the ST trim will greatly reward you with proper performance expectations, upgraded Recaro seats, larger diameter 17″ wheels and a smile on your face every time you open the door and get in.

Specifications

• Vehicle Type : 5 door hatchback
• Seating Capacity : 5
• Powertrain Configuration : FWD
• Engine :  twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT)
• Transmission : 6 speed automatic
• Horsepower :  120 Horsepower
• Torque: 112 lb.ft
• Wheelbase : 98″
• Height: 58.1″
• Price as tested: $26,599