Once upon a time, the only way to get serious performance out of cars was to stuff a huge, gas-guzzling V8 under the hood. Single-digit fuel economy was not unheard of among the big-block cars, and even the small-block engines rarely got above 15 on the highway. But things are much different today, and Ford is leading the way in affordable and fuel-efficient fun.
Pertinent information on the upcoming 2014 Ford Fiesta ST has hit the web, and the numbers are quite palpable. Priced at under $22,000, packing 197 horsepower, and capable of 35 mpg on the highway, this Ford pocket rocket will pack a punch at a good price.
Slotted as an entry-level performance car cheaper than both the Focus ST and the Mustang V6, the Fiesta ST will pack a 1.6 liter EcoBoost engine rated at 197 horsepower and 202 ft-lbs of torque. Not bad for such a tiny little motor, and even better it is rated at 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for a 29 mpg combined rating. That means more money in your wallet for future modifications.
That said, Ford has a very crowded performance car segment in the low-20s range, which could mean sales cannibalized from the Mustang or Focus ST. Then again, Ford now has options for those seeking an even more affordable performance car, one that won’t guzzle gas or leave you scraping together your pennies for your next meal.