Today in Cologne, Germany, Ford of Europe revealed the next-gen Fiesta ST, which delivers the same horsepower as the outgoing model from a smaller engine. Along with the revised engine, the 2017 Fiesta ST sports fresh styling and a host of new technologies.
“Our next generation Fiesta ST is true to the philosophy of delivering cutting-edge technology to enhance every facet of the responsive Ford Performance chassis and powertrain,” Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe, said. “With selectable Drive Modes and an all-new EcoBoost engine delivering an unprecedented combination of performance and fuel efficiency, the new model will deliver the most versatile, fun, engaging and rewarding Fiesta ST driving experience yet.”
Today in Germany Ford revealed the latest version of its entry-level hot hatch, the 2017 Fiesta ST powered by a 197-horsepower, 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, which also delivers 214 lb-ft of torque. Along with the new styling, it wears new 18-inch alloy wheels and the Liquid Blue seen here is one of the paint options.
The new 1.5-liter three-liter engine in the ST will not only propel the little hatchback from 0‑62 mph in 6.7 seconds, but it will cut back on emissions and improve fuel economy thanks to the first application of cylinder-deactivation on a three-banger, which can switch a cylinder on and off in 14 milliseconds for seamless performance.
To maximize low-end performance from the small, all-aluminum engine, Ford engineers designed a turbo to spool quickly and built boost earlier. It is joined to the engine via an integrated exhaust manifold, which is said to help the engine reach the ideal operating temperature by shortening the path from engine to turbo. Like the Ford GT this engine benefits from a fuel system that combines port and direct fuel injection.
Fiesta ST Drive Modes
Normal: Engine mapping, traction control, electronic stability control, ESE, exhaust sound and electronic power assisted steering are configured to deliver natural responsiveness and a connected feel.
Sport: Sharpens engine mapping, throttle pedal response and EPAS settings for more feedback and control. Active noise control valve is opened and the ESE intensifies the exhaust note and engine noise in the interior.
Track: All settings are tuned for the fastest possible track times, while traction control is disabled and ESC interventions are set to wide-slip mode.
“Next generation Fiesta ST customers will benefit from innovations developed by Ford Performance for the Ford GT supercar and Focus RS hot hatchback, including high power EcoBoost and Drive Mode technologies,” Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance, said. “Working as one unified Ford Performance team helps us better deliver our core fun-to-drive experience and democratize sophisticated performance-enhancing features for every customer.”
Along with the performance technology loaded into the hot hatch, the new Fiesta ST will feature a number of Ford’s technology, including Sync 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can even be had with an optional, high-end B&O PLAY Sound System.
To maximize the sound from the three-cylinder engine, the new Fiesta ST features an active exhaust and Electronic Sound Enhancement. To improve its fuel economy the engine features the first application of cylinder deactivation on a three-cylinder.
Our ST models are designed to make a Ford Performance driving experience accessible to customers regardless of lifestyle—Matthias Tonn, Fiesta ST chief program engineer
Buyers will even be able to custom-order a number of interior elements—including the gear lever, steering wheel, door pulls and dashboard—via optional styling packs.
The 2017 Fiesta ST will arrive in early 2018 in three- and five-door versions. So far all the information on the car is coming out of Europe, so it remains to be seen how the North American version might vary.