SWEET 2013 FORD FIESTA ST COMING TO MZANSI

Hot on the heels of the launch of the new Focus ST, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) can confirm its smaller sibling the new Fiesta ST is destined for local shores in the first half of 2013.

The all-new model will take Fiesta ST performance to a new level with its 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine delivering 132kW of power and 240Nm of torque. It races from 0 - 100km/h in under 7 seconds, and has a top speed of more than 220km/h. But despite its performance credentials Ford’s advanced EcoBoost technology ensures the Fiesta ST’s frugality.

Developed by Ford Team RS, the new Fiesta ST delivers significant ride-and-handling improvements through the introduction of a specially tuned chassis that sits 15mm lower than the standard Fiesta; Ford’s enhanced Torque Vectoring Control system; and three Electronic Stability Control modes. The technologies were put to the test over 5000 kilometres of driving on Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife.

The new Fiesta ST features unprecedented levels of equipment and specification to suit the sporting driver, with standard Recaro sports seats. It will also be equipped with MyKey and SYNC™, Ford’s voice-activated in-car connectivity system. A new bold and dynamic exterior design drives home the high performance message and features the latest Ford design signatures including a large trapezoidal grille.

The new Fiesta ST was engineered using Ford’s global Performance Car DNA and developed by Ford Team RS, the European arm of the company’s Global Performance Vehicles group.
The experience of the engineering team in working with Ford’s motorsport partners to develop the Fiesta RS WRC, Fiesta Rallycross and Racing Fiesta vehicles, also proved invaluable for developing the new Fiesta ST.

“We’re delighted to be bringing a new generation Fiesta ST to South African performance enthusiasts in 2013,” said Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly. “With the Fiesta ST joining the new Focus ST, we will again be able to deliver a choice of affordable small performance cars that are designed to deliver a unique blend of stand-out styling and dynamic on-road performance with true practicality for everyday use.”

STORY BY FORD