Ford Fiesta 2011 for U.S. market

The European-designed Ford Fiesta, available in the UAE for the past year, is the first Euro model to make it to U.S. shores in a long time, and was unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. Interestingly, the Americans will get a hatchback as well as a sedan version, both of which share only 60% of parts with the European version.

To be built in North America, the US-spec 2011 Fiesta differs from the European-built GCC-spec 2010 Fiesta mainly under the bonnet. While we here are saddled with a 97 hp 1.4-litre blender motor at best, the Stateside version gets a 119 hp 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine, putting it on level footing with competitors from Honda. Other changes include the addition of new bumpers, McDonalds-spec seats, capless fuel filler, SYNC multimedia system, knee airbags and optional leather, among others.

Thankfully, the UAE has been spared the sight of the awkward sedan, which makes the hatchback’s styling even more appealing than it already is. For prices and specs on the GCC version, visit the Ford Fiesta buyer guide.