Sure to be called one of the best cars of 2011 by value-conscious consumers, the Ford Fiesta is an affordable fuel-efficient car that doesn't scrimp on the amenities. Subcompact certainly doesn't mean substandard when it comes to this smart, small car from Ford.
The Ford Fiesta is the #1 Affordable Small Car
Ranked the #1 Affordable Small Car by US News Rankings and Reviews, the Ford Fiesta is quickly becoming the go-to car for fuel-efficiency-minded Toyota and Honda expatriates. Sporty, extremely fuel-efficient, loaded with features, and with a lot more pep than you'd expect from this subcompact contender, the Fiesta has a starting price of just $13,320. And, luckily for Ford, that affordable price tag is just one of the reasons folks in the small/subcompact car market are lining up for it.
Best-in-class Safety Features
When it comes to safety, it's obvious that Ford didn't cut any corners. The Fiesta's best-in-class standard safety features include seven airbags (including a Ford-exclusive driver-side knee airbag that's tucked beneath the steering column), a Personal Safety System that adjusts airbag deployment based on need, and an SOS Post Crash Alert system that's automatically engaged in the event of an air-bag deploying crash.
That, and a frame that's constructed with over 50% light, high-strength boron steel (keeping it light and fuel-efficient) and integrated blind-spot mirrors that reduce rear vision blind spots, make the Fiesta a much safer ride than might be expected from a car of its size class.
The New Small Car with Class
An entry-level vehicle that's poised to be in vogue for awhile, the Ford Fiesta has flair to spare. With a sporty, aerodynamic exterior that drives fuel-efficiency and a durable and sleek interior that flaunts style, the Fiesta looks and feels like a car well beyond its price point. And, with new high-impact exterior colors and the most interior material colors available in its class, the Fiesta begs to be customized.
For those looking for a small-ticket car with big-name bells and whistles, the SEL sedan and SES HB models also have standard premium features usually reserved for luxury-class vehicles, like voice-controlled SYNC, ambient interior and exterior lighting, an LCD message center, and remote push-button start.
One of the Most Fuel-Efficient Cars in its Class
When it comes to finding a fuel-efficient car, it's hard to beat the Fiesta. With a small 1.6L Duratec I4 engine, the Fiesta still manages to deliver respectable pep and performance, all while netting impressive fuel economy at 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. An optional Super Fuel Economy Package also offers additional fuel-efficient details like an underbody shield and lower grille blockers for increased aerodynamics.
2011 Ford Fiesta Drawbacks
While there are a lot of great things to say about the 2011 Ford Fiesta, it's not the right car for everyone, and consumers looking for power aren't likely to be impressed with the Fiesta's 120 hp or 112 torque. Nor are its small engine and body size ideal for drivers with long commutes in areas with large snowfall.
Drivers with excessively snowy drives may want to opt for a larger, heavier vehicle for safe winter driving. Finally, the Fiesta is classed as a subcompact car for a reason: it's small. And while the sedan still has an official seating capacity of 5 and may be roomier than you'd expect, drivers shouldn't expect a stretch-your-knees-out backseat experience.
Summary
Ideal for value-conscious buyers with an eye on style, the fuel-efficient Ford Fiesta offers outstanding affordability, modern design and technology, and solid performance for its size class.
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Sources
- Ford Motor Company (November 26, 2010)
- U.S. News Rankings and Reviews. 2011 Ford Fiesta (November 26, 2010)
Jennifer Silva - Jenn is a professional writer and editor with experience in: technical communications (medical, manufacturing and publishing ...
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