Spied! Ford Fiesta in next-generation avtaar

New Delhi: Ford is currently cooking the next-generation of the Fiesta, which is expected to be revealed at a motor show in 2017, followed by subsequent global sales as a 2018 model. Recently, the new Fiesta has been spied testing in Europe. The current Fiesta has been around since 2008, and had received a mid-life update. The car was due for a generation change. Except the sedan version to follow soon after the hatchback is revealed.

Design and features 

Ford will soon introduce the third-generation KA globally, now known as KA+ (second generation Figo) — already up for order in the UK. The new KA+ will sit below the Fiesta and is reasonably spacious. To make room for it, Ford has probably increased the length of the Fiesta and the same is evident from the camouflaged test mule. The next-gen model also looks wider in contrast to the current one. 

It will be based on Ford’s Kinetic 2.0 design philosophy, which the current sixth- generation Fiesta adopted with its mid-life update. It will also carry forward the current platform, which is not bad considering the dynamics of the chassis. The new face looks taut, but has the essence of the ongoing model. The new grille looks smaller than the present one and even the swept back headlamps have undergone a cut.

The rear profile has witnessed significant changes. The new Fiesta will feature horizontally placed wrap-around taillamps. Also, the expected increase in width has resulted in a considerably wider rear windscreen. 

Speaking of the cabin, sadly there are no spy shots as of now, but it is just a matter of time. However, the probability of the seventh-gen Fiesta’s dash resembling the one which will come with the facelifted EcoSport (current versions also have a similar cabin) is likely. The latter was spied inside-out recently. About the infotainment system? It will get Ford’s latest SYNC unit — SYNC 3 which will support both Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto. 

Coming to India?

The Fiesta sedan was discontinued in India when the automaker had launched the Aspire compact sedan. Ever since the company introduced the new Fiesta in India, it was unable to compete the original Fiesta’s success, despite being a potent performer and a handler. Where it lacked, if our market is concerned, is the rear cabin space, especially in contrast with vehicles such as the Honda City and the Hyundai Verna. But since the new Fiesta looks wider and longer than before, it might jump start the Fiesta’s nameplate in India.

The company might also enter the premium hatchback space with the introduction of the Fiesta hatch in India. It will compete with vehicles such as the Hyundai i20, the Volkswagen Polo, and the Honda Jazz ( also known as the Fit globally). 

Engines: 

Globally, the Fiesta is most likely to continue with the current set of engines, which includes the five consecutive times ‘Best Small Engine’ winner — the 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost along with other naturally aspirated motors. Speaking of the diesel, the new Fiesta might bring with itself the new 1.5-litre engine from Ford’s brand new EcoBlue family of oil burners. Expect new transmissions as well.

Source: www.cardekho.com