Ford Fiesta

The Ikon, you would recall, was quite a looker (I think it still is) but the Fiesta? Not so. The Fiesta was developed for Indian conditions to replicate the success of the Ikon, and it has done decently thus far. The Fiesta is not as attractive or sporty-looking as the ‘Josh Machine’ and it’s the lacklustre styling that makes it look so run-of-the-mill. It looks mature and is aimed at appealing to the masses. Even the attractive mesh grille section and large headlamps cannot save the day for Fiesta on the looks front. The rear has some nice elements and the tail lamp cluster tries its best to add some style quotient to the otherwise bland design.

It is in this department that the Fiesta scores highly. The build quality of the dashboard is that of a high order and it looks sporty. Ergonomics and quality of plastics could have been a little better, though. The seats offer good support at all the right places but the rear bench still cannot hold a candle to the comfort offered by the Honda City. The seat-back is slightly more upright than we would have liked. The lack of ample cubby holes can be irritating at times.

The Fiesta is available with a choice of three engines. The 1.4-litre 82bhp engine feels a tad delayed in its response at low revs while the 100bhp, 1.6-litre engine feels urgent and progress is rapid. On the highway too the 1600cc motor shines in the way it performs. The two petrol units are not very frugal though and will deliver in the region of 10kpl and 13kpl in city and on the highway respectively. The mileage inclined lot will be content with the 1.4-litre TDCi engine that develops 68bhp and 160Nm which can be tapped well for city use.  

The direct comparisons with the Ikon will be unreasonable, but we cannot help but go back to the Josh machine. The Ikon’s handling is sublime and it strikes a fine balance with ride quality. Fiesta on the other hand is slightly less eager to attack corners. The suspension is set up to offer good ride quality which is one of the attributes that affect razor sharp handling that Fiesta could have been endowed with. The ride quality gets better with speed but Fiesta’s suspension is still not as forgiving as that of the City or Aveo. The steering feel and response is instant and puts a smile on your face. The gearshift is delightful.

The Ford Fiesta does not exude the youthfulness that the Ikon did. Neither does it drive like its cheaper sibling. But at the same time is extremely manageable and nimble. The Fiesta with its refined and subdued nature should appeal to many. So what if it looks a bit inconspicuous, a good car it sure is.