Ford Fiesta ST upgraded for 2018

The Ford Fiesta ST has been creating waves in America and Europe, but it never came to the GCC. For 2018, an all-new model now offering 197 hp made a 2017 Geneva Motor Show debut.

Out went the four-cylinder unit that did duty in the old model, replaced by a new turbocharged three-cylinder 1.5-litre unit that produces 197 hp and 290 Nm of torque. The new mill gives the 2018 Fiesta ST a 0-100 kph timing of 6.7 seconds. Weirdly, the tiny unit also comes with cylinder deactivation to shut down a pot for better emissions and fuel efficiency.

There are several driving modes to choose from which includes Normal, Sport and Track. Shuffling between the modes will alter the car’s throttle mapping, steering, stability control, Electronic Sound Enhancement and active exhaust noise control according to the mode selected.

Riding on a set of snazzy 18-inch wheels, the Fiesta ST flaunts some aesthetic changes to set it apart from the regular model. A blacked-out mesh grille flanked by the new set of lights along with a rear spoiler that seamlessly integrates with the roof line are a few of the changes that give the new ST a boy-racer look.

The interior boasts a set of Recaro sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering, and a range of options that can be used to personalise the cabin according to the driver. The Sync3 infotainment system comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, a Bang and Olufsen sound system and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay connectivity.

The Ford Fiesta ST will be publicly revealed at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show after which it will hit European markets to lock horns with the Opel Corsa OPC and the VW Polo GTI there. It is unlikely to make it to the UAE.