Ford Fiesta: Trying to break subcompact norms

Normally, most mid-cycle launches of automobile brands generate little fanfare, considering that most mid-term changes introduced are either exterior cosmetics and/or cabin upgrades. 

 

However, Ford’s Fiesta subcompact hatchback is trying to break norms in subcompact cars by introducing a one-liter powerplant with forced induction help to hang with others in its class

 

“For the 2014 Ford Fiesta, we will first be introducing the 1.5L engine with Twin Independent Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), then a 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder engine available later in the year,” said Ford managing director Kay Hart. 

 

Ti-VCT is the equivalent of Honda’s DOHC intelligent Variable valve Timing and Electronic Control VTEC or camshaft and valve control system for subcompact cars.

On the other hand, the 123 hp/200 NM 1.0L EcoBoost would be the Fiesta’s sole forced induction powerplant. Given the small 1,000 cc displacement, aiding the hatch into the lower fringes of the powerband is a single turbocharger tuned to augment the midrange power delivery and reduce the need for the rest of the engine’s mechanical parts to work harder and consume more fuel in the process—hence the EcoBoost tag. 

 

   

Microsoft SYNC

A turbo relies on the ambient air entering an intercooler (a second radiator of sorts) to bring additional cold, dense air to the intake manifold. This greater mass of air entering the cylinders goads a large density of exhaust gases to penetrate the turbo proper—also called compressor or “slug”—and drive the slug’s built-in propellers. This spiral of explosive power assures that all fuel is burned before entering the exhaust stage. 

 

An upgrade to the Ford Fiesta is Microsoft’s SYNC mobile entertainment, though standard only on all Fiesta a/t models. Found previously on Ford’s Explorer and the Expedition SUVs, the SYNC system controls the iPod-ready integrated head unit and offers Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone calling including voice-activated start-ups. At present, the Fiesta is the only player in the subcompact hatch market with Microsoft SYNC.

 

The competition, which includes the Honda Jazz, Suzuki Swift, Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Mazda 2 and Chevrolet Sonic, has an auxiliary input jack or a USB jack for external MP3 players through the audio entertainment system though not necessarily iPod ready. 

 

The base model Ford Fiesta is priced from P698,000 to P868,000 for the Sport a/t hatch and sedan.

 

The mid-cycle Ford Fiesta arrival is part of the Blue Oval’s plan to recover lost ground in market share and visibility caused by the loss of their Sta. Rosa, Laguna factory last year. 

 

“The Ford Fiesta is part of our plan to keep ourselves competitive for 2013. That includes the opening of two new dealerships this year—Ford Manila Bay and Ford Bohol—plus two new dealers in the VisMin area by the end of the year,” said Hart. — VS, GMA News