The old Fiesta’s interior was always a little disappointing from the get-go, but it’s clear Ford has tried doubly hard with the latest car’s cabin. While some more recently introduced rivals now better it, the levels of space, quality and technology on offer are significantly better than those of the car it replaced.
A redesigned infotainment system is a key player, with a larger and much easier to use screen than the tiny, outdated unit installed as an afterthought in the old car’s dash. It’s not the best system on the market, being a little slower than some, but in general it works well and Ford has sensibly retained regular buttons for most of the major controls elsewhere in the cabin, so regularly used functions are easy to access.
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The chunky steering wheel feels good too, and the Fiesta’s seats are decently supportive, particularly in ST-Line and ST models. The pedals and gearlever are well placed too and along with the steering, all maintain that consistent action that adds to a sense of quiet quality. Materials are decent too, though you’ll still find better in a Mini or Polo, and recent introductions from Renault, Peugeot and Vauxhall all have more welcoming cabins.
Those rivals also feel a little more spacious than the Fiesta, and their more conventional proportions seem to sit you a little less high than the Fiesta’s perch – even the ST feels a little tall after climbing out of other hot hatches. By and large though, this is a thoughtfully designed and well-constructed cabin.
