The next-generation model of the ridiculously fun Ford Fiesta ST has debuted at the Geneva Motor Show with a new engine.
The 2018 Ford Fiesta ST will now be powered by an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder with about 200 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaces the 1.6L four-cylinder motor in the old ST, and, although it is smaller, output increases by a bit.
This is the first time Ford’s three-cylinder motor has been used in a performance car, and it even has cylinder deactivation that will shut down one cylinder under light loads. The engine should help the hatch blast to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.7 seconds. As before, the Ford Fiesta ST will only be available with a six-speed manual.
The little hatch also gets three driving modes for the first time — Normal, Sport and Track — that change the engine response, throttle response, steering feel and response, stability control, and exhaust sound.
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The new ST should sound pretty good, too, even if it’s fake — a new electronic sound enhancer and an active exhaust will be offered. More importantly, the Ford Fiesta ST gets torque vectoring control that should help stability in corners and reduce understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering.
Inside, the ST gets Recaro seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, the updated SYNC3 system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a touchscreen that recognizes smartphone gestures. Ford says owners will have more customization options, and 18-inch wheels are standard.
The 2018 Ford Fiesta ST will be available as both a three-door and five-door hatch. Information about North American ST models has not yet been released.
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