What It Is: The next-generation version of one of our favorite hot hatches?heck, one of our favorite cars, period?the Ford Fiesta ST. Based on the competent and efficient Fiesta subcompact, the current ST turns up the wick with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and a corner-carving suspension. This prototype Fiesta ST previews the new model, due to replace today?s version for the 2018 model year wearing new sheetmetal and a new interior.
Why It Matters: Ford really doesn?t need to build the Fiesta ST, at least for the U.S., where no other manufacturer offers a properly sporty car in the subcompact B segment. (In Europe, where the Fiesta and Fiesta ST also are sold, there are more competitors.) Still, offering Americans the Fiesta ST is smart. Besides existing in a class by itself, the ST is inexpensive, efficient, and huge fun to drive?perfect for younger, performance-savvy buyers who may lust after a Mustang GT but can?t afford one. Get those buyers into the fold with the Fiesta, and who knows, someday, after climbing the Ford performance ladder?to the Focus ST, Focus RS, Mustang GT, and Shelby Mustang?they might be on a waiting list for a future GT supercar. This is long-term brand building in the form of a cute hatchback. Plus it?s a helluva lot of fun.
Platform: Like its less speedy 2018 Fiesta siblings, the ST will employ an updated version of the current Fiesta?s global B-segment platform. We have few complaints about these bones, as they provide a stiff, refined basis for today?s models. The suspension is pretty spot-on, even in non-ST form. Of course, the whole point of the ST is to elevate performance, and we?d be okay with Ford carrying over the current ST?s chassis untouched; it?s that good. As for the rest of the Fiesta, it?s due for a visual refresh inside and out. These spy photos show that the new ST will adopt the same wider, thinner taillights and new headlights as the regular 2018 Fiesta while getting bespoke front and rear fascias, wheels, and spoilers. Inside, expect nicer materials on the dashboard and door panels and a larger touchscreen with Sync 3 infotainment; there may even be new safety tech like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning, as evidenced by the camera array at the top of this Fiesta ST prototype?s windshield.
Powertrain: We anticipate Ford will stay with the same turbocharged 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder from today?s Fiesta ST for the new model, although a displacement bump is possible in order to add power. Even so, more muscle isn?t really necessary, as the little engine produces a mighty 197 horsepower and is smooth and willing. (Non-ST Fiestas likely will continue to offer a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four and a turbocharged, 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost.) We anticipate a six-speed manual transmission again will be standard, but there?s an outside possibility that Ford could drum up a sportier, heavier-duty version of the regular Fiesta?s optional six-speed dual-clutch automatic to appeal to a wider swath of buyers.
Competition: Fiat 500 Abarth, Mini Cooper S/JCW.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The new Fiesta will debut next year as a 2018 model, with this ST version not far behind. Pricing should stay about the same as it is today, a brilliant value at $22,335.
