Ford Reveals a Sportier, More Fuel-Efficient Fiesta at LA Auto Show

WATERTOWN, MASS. (11/30/2012)(readMedia)-- Ford just launched its Fiesta subcompact in the United States a little over two years ago, but a new generation is already set to debut at dealerships next year. Unveiled at the LA Auto Show this week, the restyled 2014 Ford Fiesta will offer drivers improved fuel economy and technology, as well as a new performance trim that should further differentiate the car in its class.

Slated to receive Ford's award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, the new Fiesta is predicted by the automaker to surpass 40 mpg, a feat that would make the car the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid subcompact in the United States. Even with that impressive gas mileage, the diminutive EcoBoost unit will have a greater power-to-displacement ratio than the engine in the Lamborghini Aventador, producing 123 horsepower from its single liter of displacement. Meanwhile, a new Fiesta ST performance trim will use a 1.6-liter EcoBoost to produce an estimated 197 horsepower, 16 more horsepower than the MINI Cooper S.

"Ford has managed to improve the Fiesta on both ends of the performance spectrum, setting it apart with both enhanced power and fuel economy," said Peter King, general manager of Watertown Ford, a Greater Boston Ford dealership. "Many subcompacts have a sporty look on the outside, but you step on the pedal and feel like you're driving a golf cart. This won't be the case with the 2014 Fiesta, especially in regards to the high-performance ST trim."

The advanced technology in the new Ford Fiesta isn't restricted to the engine bay either, as buyers will be able to opt for a new version of the MyFord Touch infotainment system, which now incorporates a 6.5-inch touchscreen. Featuring enhanced voice controls for communication, entertainment and navigation functionality, the system will also maintain its SYNC AppLink capabilities, which allow users to connect to select apps on their smartphones.

The current 2013 model is already an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, and the 2014 Fiesta will continue to deliver a comprehensive list of standard safety features. AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control will help keep the vehicle on track in inclement weather, while duel-stage first-row airbags, a driver knee airbag, side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags will have the angles covered when it comes to crash protection.

Another Ford small car, the compact 2013 Focus, recently received a top safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The latest Ford Focus used its next-generation front and side airbags and class-exclusive Safety Canopy curtain airbags to earn a five-star Overall Vehicle Score in the organization's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

"Ford's small cars continue to be popular, and that's partially because drivers have peace of mind knowing they are all big on safety," King noted. "With Ford, car buyers can downsize for improved fuel efficiency and more practicality, but still know they aren't sacrificing their well-being in the process."

About Watertown Ford:

Watertown Ford is where Greater Boston Ford lovers head for the best deals on new and used Fords. No other Massachusetts Ford dealer has the same dedication to the customer, and that dedication has earned Watertown Ford the loyalty of Ford owners all over the state. Their new and used Ford inventory can be viewed online at www.watertownford.com, and interested customers can visit their showroom at 625 Pleasant St. in Watertown, Massachusetts. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MyWatertownFord and reached by phone at 800-584-6486.