Fresh-faced Ford Fiesta debuts in Frankfurt

When Ford launched its fifth generation Fiesta a few years ago, it rightfully received acclaim for its driving dynamics and grown-up quality, some saying that there was little to choose between it and the bigger Focus. However, the supermini market is cut throat; great dynamics and a good interior are not often enough to snare young buyers, and the Fiesta was actually a little dull to look at, certainly in comparison to rivals such as BMW's Mini.

Ford chose to launch a facelifted Fiesta at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, with a myriad of changes to be applied across the range (including the ST and Sport models), extending to the Fiesta-based Fusion. Changes to the Fiesta's exterior are few, but remarkably effective. You may struggle to notice the mildly tweaked rear lamps and bumper, but at the front the new Fiesta is revitalised. The headlights have been replaced by bold new items with the individual components prominent and now circular. The grilles have been given a new mesh appearance, and the lower air intake has been reshaped to give the Fiesta a smiling appearance, which a little bizarrely is at odds with the inverse trapezoid shape being pushed forward on the Iosis concept as a future Ford design hallmark.

Inside, the new Fiesta has been given a substantial upgrade, with new touchy-feely materials and more colour customisation available to the buyer. Under the surface lies new CAN-bus technology allowing the fitment of a wider range of high-tech gadgets such as the new range of audio systems, Bluetooth functionality and voice control for such things as the stereo and new electronic climate control. The on-board computer even allows the driver to customise these things, in much the same way as BMW drivers are used to with the I-drive system. Looks like Ford has raised the Fiesta's game, which is just in time considering rivalry in the form of Renault's new Clio and the Nissan Note.

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