In-depth reviews

Ford Fiesta ST review – design

A facelift has brought about a gentle evolution in design

Evo rating
Price
from £19,495

The Fiesta’s facelift has been a subtle one this time around, with only a new fascia and wheel design signalling any change. While the changes are subtle, it could be argued that the pre-facelift car was a more resolved design. The new LED headlights are standard fit and include a matrix beam, which feels very generous for the ST’s price point.

The new Fiesta is otherwise unchanged, which is no bad thing. It’s not as funky as Peuegot’s 208, but looks more resolved and refined than the wacky Toyota Yaris without falling into the monotonous as VW’s Polo and the Vauxhall Corsa have fallen foul of.

Unfortunately, if a rambunctious little hot hatchback is what you’re after, Hyundai’s i20 N sits in a class of its own, as the base i20’s already expressive design is only heightened by the tacked-on rear wings, chunky skirts and red highlights.

Ford has spruced up some of the details – the distinctive new alloy wheels help demarcate it from lesser Fiestas, and the new 'Mean Green' paint colour also helps – but it’ll take an educated eye to notice the ST on the road.

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