Ford Fiesta Gains Mild Hybrid Tech, Improved Safety And Connectivity

Ford’s best-selling model in Europe, the Fiesta, has just been updated in several departments. First, we have the introduction of a mild-hybrid powertrain with 48-volt technology on both the regular Fiesta as well as the Van variant.

Second, the popular hatchback also gained new safety and connectivity features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Speed Sign Recognition, or the FordPass Connect modem.

Pricing for these EcoBoost Hybrid powertrains kicks off from £19,860 ($25,200) in the UK, which will land you a Fiesta Titanium model.

Read: Ford Cutting Fiesta Production In Europe After Sales Drop In UK

“Adding EcoBoost Hybrid technology to Fiesta’s best-in-class driving dynamics means customers can have even more power and still go further on a tank of fuel,” said Roelant de Waard, marketing/sales & service VP, Ford of Europe. “The Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid will help Ford bring the benefits of electrification to more drivers than ever before.”

The Fiesta’s non-hybrid engines were also updated with the addition of the latest generation 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline unit and a new 7-speed dual clutch automatic. As for the EcoBoost Hybrid, it’s available in 125 PS (123 HP) and 155 PS (153 HP) guises, boasting a belt-driven integrated starter/generator and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack.

This system provides you with up to 24 Nm (18 lb-ft) of torque, increasing peak torque by up to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft) above the level available courtesy of the gasoline engine alone – resulting in a total of 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) from the 155 PS (153 HP) unit, and up to 50% more torque at lower rpm.

With the Fiesta Van, you only get the 125 PS (123 HP) mild-hybrid engine, thus replacing the old 85 PS 1.5-liter TDCi diesel unit. However, a non-hybrid 125 PS 1.0-liter EcoBoost with a six-speed manual gearbox is also available.

Improved safety and connectivity

Aside from the new ACC system with Stop & Go and Traffic Sign Recognition, the Fiesta is also available with Perpendicular Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking, plus new Sport and Trail selectable drive modes added to the existing Normal, Eco and Slippery.

Meanwhile, the standard FordPass Connect technology will allow you to remotely control a selection of vehicle features using a mobile data signal – you can engage Door Lock Unlock, Remote Start (on models with the 7-speed automatic), Vehicle Locator and Vehicle Status.

Last but not least, the Fiesta’s SYNC 3 infotainment software was updated and is now said to be more intuitive and easier to use, with a new user interface boasting larger buttons for the 8-inch touchscreen. As for the cherry on top of the sundae, there’s a new wireless charging pad for your mobile device.