In-depth reviews

Ford Fiesta (2017-2023) review

The last-ever Ford Fiesta supermini is good fun and remains a solid buy despite increasingly strong competition

Overall Auto Express Rating

4.0 out of 5

Price
£19,330 to £27,320
  • Fun to drive
  • Great engines
  • Cheap to run
  • Some cheap plastics
  • Not as affordable as it once was
  • Soon to be discontinued
Find your Ford Fiesta
Offers from our trusted partners on this car and its predecessors...
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Advertisement

The Ford Fiesta is a British motoring icon, and the latest model is one of the best 'real-world' cars around, because it ticks all of the rational boxes, but also manages to be great fun to drive. 

Offering plenty of comfort, refinement and practicality, the Fiesta comes with plenty of standard kit, while the agile handling means it can easily put a smile on your face on the most mundane of journeys. With improvements made to cabin quality, infotainment and space, the current Ford Fiesta is the best it’s ever been.

About the Ford Fiesta

The latest generation of the Ford Fiesta was launched in 2017, and in many ways it was the arrival of this model which probably spurred the supermini market into action; the last one was so good, how could Ford go wrong with the follow-up?

As a result, brand-new versions of the SEAT Ibiza, Volkswagen Polo, Citroen C3, Kia Rio and Suzuki Swift arrived, updates were made to the Hyundai i20, Mazda 2 and Renault Clio, while big incentives were placed on models like the Vauxhall Corsa, Skoda Fabia and Peugeot 208 to help them stay attractive to buyers. It all means that buyers looking for a supermini have never had so much choice.

That's especially true of the Fiesta range itself. Ford has realigned the Fiesta model line-up to ensure there’s something to suit everyone. There’s eight models on offer, from the entry-level Trend through to the sportier ST-Line versions, and the hardcore ST to consider for those possibly thinking of the odd track day experience.

There is, though, the inevitable downside, and with prices starting at more than £19,000 it’s not as affordable as it once was. If you want to specify additional luxury kit you’ll certainly pay for it: around £24,000 is needed to bag a 99bhp model in ST-Line X trim, while Ford wants around £27,000 for the racy ST-3 model.

A facelift in 2022 brought in some styling tweaks, with Ford introducing its new family face which will feature on all upcoming models. There's a larger, more angular grille, with the blue oval badge now sitting within it, rather than at the top. The bonnet has also been redesigned, the nose of the car raised and new LED headlights fitted. 

The sportier ST-Line models add a more aggressive front bumper, with a gloss black honeycomb mesh grille, and the higher-riding Fiesta Active now features vertical grille bars, plastic body cladding and silver accents at the front. New wheel designs are available across the range and updated on-board tech and extra safety kit is included, too. However, Ford has taken the decision to only offer a downgraded version of its Sync infotainment system for the Fiesta (prior to production ceasing in mid-2023), which means all models feature Sync 2.5 instead of the 3 version.

The Fiesta is now offered as a five-door model only, with the three-door variant no longer available on the price list. In terms of engines, there are three petrols available. The 1.1 Ti-VCT is the base unit, and delivers 74bhp. The 1.0 EcoBoost three-cylinder turbo petrol is the staple of the range, and it comes in 99bhp and 123bhp versions (the 153bhp model has been discontinued), with the more powerful engine using mild-hybrid technology to help improve fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

Partnership
Need to sell your car?
Find your best offer from over 5,000+ dealers. It’s that easy.

The sporty ST-3 uses a punchy 1.5T EcoBoost engine with 197bhp, while the frugal 1.5 TDCi oil burner was removed from the Fiesta range in 2020.

All cars use a six-speed manual transmission (with the exception of the 1.1L Ti-VCT five-speed manual), while the 123bhp petrol version is offered with the option of a seven-speed DCT auto 'box.

The Fiesta range also includes the Fiesta Active  with its raised ride height and off-road styling for people who want an SUV, but like the compact dimensions of a supermini.

Used and nearly new

The Ford Fiesta was first launched back in 1976 and, 40 years later, it’s more popular than ever. It’s been through eight generations over the years, but each one has been a huge success with the Blue Oval baby regularly topping the UK new car sales charts.

One of the first Ford models to get front-wheel drive, the Fiesta has always aimed to deliver practicality and low running costs above all else. The very early cars are now considered classics, while latest models represent one of the best small car used buys thanks to their upmarket appearance and sparkling driving dynamics.

Ford Fiesta history

Ford Fiesta Mk8: 2017-2023

The latest Ford Fiesta is one of the best yet, combining its predecessor's style and driving sparkle with an upmarket interior that’s packed with kit. It’s also a fraction roomier inside, while as before there’s a choice of rakish three-door and versatile five-door layouts. The high performance ST tops the range, but there are also luxurious Vignale and tough-looking Active models. Most versions also get the firm’s excellent SYNC3 infotainment system. Read our full Ford Fiesta Mk8 buyer’s guide here.

Used Ford Fiesta Mk7 - front

Ford Fiesta Mk7: 2008-2017

Combining head-turning looks with brilliant driving dynamics, the Mk7 Fiesta is a truly desirable small car. There’s a choice of three and five-door bodystyles, with both providing decent space and versatility. You’re also spoiled when it comes to engines, with a wide array of efficient petrol and diesels, plus there’s the fiery ST hot hatch. All cars are well equipped, but Bluetooth was an option on early cars, so double check if it's fitted. Read our full Ford Fiesta Mk7 buyer’s guide here.

Ford Fiesta Mk6: 2002-2008

The first genuinely all-new Fiesta since 1989, the Mk6 was heavily influenced by the brand’s trademark late Nineties ‘New Edge Design’. With square-edged styling and upright stance it looked more mini-MPV than supermini. More grown-up to drive than previous versions, it had a quality look and feel that rivalled models such as the VW Polo. It’s still a practical and reliable used car option, with bargain basement prices making it a great choice for those looking to buy a small car on a shoestring budget. You can read our full Ford Fiesta Mk6 buyer’s guide here.

Older Ford Fiesta models

Making its debut back in 1978, the original Fiesta was Ford’s first mainstream model to combine front-wheel drive and a hatchback. It was also one of the first to jump on the junior hot hatch bandwagon with the XR2. It’s now considered a classic, but many have rusted away to nothing. 

Essentially a heavy facelift of the first-generation car, the Mk2 debuted in 1984 with a more rounded look. It also featured a less utilitarian interior and the option of a diesel for the first time. 

When the Mk3 arrived in 1989 it became the first Fiesta to get a five-door option, while it also featured big car features such as optional ABS brakes. Wild RS Turbo model packed 130bhp and was identified by its green bumper inserts. 

In 1995 a heavily revised Mk5 appeared and used all of Ford’s chassis-tuning know-how from the first Mondeo to deliver class-leading ride and handling. It was also the first to get the brilliantly smooth and responsive 16 valve Zetec SE petrol engines that continued to be used right through to the Mk7. However, it’s ‘fish face’ styling wasn’t to all tastes.

For an alternative review of the Ford Fiesta, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk...

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    1.1 Trend 3dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £16,810

Most Economical

  • Name
    1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid mHEV 125 Trend 3dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £18,680

Fastest

  • Name
    1.5 EcoBoost ST-2 3dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £22,630
Executive editor

Paul was employed across automotive agency and manufacturer-side sectors before joining Auto Express in 2020 as our online reviews editor. After a brief sojourn at a national UK newspaper, Paul returned as executive editor where he now works closely with our commercial partners.

Have you considered?

New Vauxhall Astra Electric 2023 review: smooth and quiet, but expensive
Vauxhall Astra Electric UK - front
Road tests
6 Dec 2023

New Vauxhall Astra Electric 2023 review: smooth and quiet, but expensive

Skoda Fabia review
Skoda Fabia - front tracking
In-depth reviews
5 Dec 2023

Skoda Fabia review

Citroen C4 X Shine long-term test: a spacious and affordable family car
Citroen C4 X long termer - first report header
Long-term tests
19 Nov 2023

Citroen C4 X Shine long-term test: a spacious and affordable family car

More on Fiesta

Top 10 best learner driver cars 2023
Best cars for learner drivers - header image
Best cars & vans
12 Oct 2023

Top 10 best learner driver cars 2023

Easy to drive, affordable, and inexpensive to run, these are our top 10 used cars to learn in
Complete Ford Fiesta review: every generation tested as production ends
Ford Fiesta Mk1 and Mk2 - tracking
Car group tests
7 Jul 2023

Complete Ford Fiesta review: every generation tested as production ends

As the last-ever Fiesta rolls off Ford’s production line, we take a look back at this iconic small family supermini testing every version
Best-selling cars of 2022
Best-selling cars 2022 - header image
Best cars & vans
5 Feb 2023

Best-selling cars of 2022

These were the UK's best-selling cars in 2022
Cheapest vans on sale
Cheapest vans to buy - header
Best cars & vans
13 Jan 2023

Cheapest vans on sale

Businesses need vans to do the job without costing an arm or a leg. The UK’s cheapest vans should fulfil both criteria...
Best small automatic cars 2023
Best small automatic cars
Best cars & vans
13 Jan 2023

Best small automatic cars 2023

Small cheap cars don’t just come with a manual gearbox, here’s a our list of the best small autos you can buy
Best used car finance deals 2023
Best used car deals - header image
Best cars & vans
1 Dec 2022

Best used car finance deals 2023

If you’re after a used car, we’ve picked out 10 top examples – ranging from superminis to SUVs - on our sister site Buyacar
Ford Fiesta axed from line-up
Ford Fiesta range
News
26 Oct 2022

Ford Fiesta axed from line-up

Production of the Blue Oval’s iconic supermini will end in June 2023 as Ford confirms Fiesta’s demise
Best used hot hatchbacks 2022
Best used hot hatchbacks - header image
Best cars & vans
19 Aug 2022

Best used hot hatchbacks 2022

Our picks for the best used hot hatchbacks in the UK
Best used small cars 2022
Best used small cars - header image
Best cars & vans
17 Aug 2022

Best used small cars 2022

Our guide to the best used small cars, covering the top second hand city cars and superminis
Ford Fiesta ST review
Fiesta ST vs Polo GTI vs i20 N - Fiesta ST front tracking
In-depth reviews
6 Jun 2022

Ford Fiesta ST review

Ford’s Fiesta ST is still a vibrant, exhilarating hot hatch to drive, although it's now a little expensive to buy
Ford Fiesta ST vs Volkswagen Polo GTI vs Hyundai i20 N: 2022 group test review
Fiesta ST vs Polo GTI vs i20 N - three cars tracking 1
Car group tests
4 Jun 2022

Ford Fiesta ST vs Volkswagen Polo GTI vs Hyundai i20 N: 2022 group test review

Does the revised Ford Fiesta ST have the beating of the Hyundai i20 N? Or is the VW Polo GTI finally worthy of its famous badge?
Ford Fiesta three-door will cease production
Ford Fiesta ST 3-door
News
22 Apr 2022

Ford Fiesta three-door will cease production

With production of the three-door Fiesta set to end, Ford has already removed it from its price lists
Ford Fiesta vs Skoda Fabia vs Toyota Yaris: 2022 group test review
Ford Fiesta vs Skoda Fabia vs Toyota Yaris - header
Car group tests
16 Apr 2022

Ford Fiesta vs Skoda Fabia vs Toyota Yaris: 2022 group test review

Competition in the supermini class is intense – but is the updated Ford Fiesta still a challenger against the likes of the new Skoda Fabia and Toyota …
New Ford Fiesta 2022 review
Ford Fiesta facelift - front
Road tests
23 Mar 2022

New Ford Fiesta 2022 review

The big-selling Ford Fiesta has been facelifted to keep it fresh in the face of more modern opposition
Used Ford Fiesta (Mk7, 2008-2017) review
Used Ford Fiesta Mk7 - front
Used car tests
8 Dec 2021

Used Ford Fiesta (Mk7, 2008-2017) review

One of Britain’s best-selling cars, the Ford Fiesta is a stylish supermini that’s brilliant to drive, cost effective to run and offers decent practica…
Ford Fiesta Van review
Ford Fiesta Sport Van
In-depth reviews
6 Oct 2021

Ford Fiesta Van review

Ford's smallest van is based on the Fiesta supermini, and it adds some sporty style to the sector
Ford Fiesta Active review
Ford Fiesta Active - front
In-depth reviews
6 Oct 2021

Ford Fiesta Active review

With a strong driving experience and trendy SUV styling, the Fiesta Active has a lot to recommend it – but the standard car is cheaper
New 2022 Ford Fiesta ST facelift gets fresh face and more torque
Ford Fiesta ST
News
16 Sep 2021

New 2022 Ford Fiesta ST facelift gets fresh face and more torque

Ford has treated its peppy little Fiesta ST hot hatchback to a new front end, a few interior revisions and an extra 30Nm of torque
New 2022 Ford Fiesta Van gets tweaked styling and extra equipment
Ford Fiesta van - front
News
16 Sep 2021

New 2022 Ford Fiesta Van gets tweaked styling and extra equipment

Ford’s dinky Fiesta-based van is available to order now, sporting the same updated front end as the passenger car
New 2022 Ford Fiesta unveiled with fresh looks and tech boost
Ford Fiesta facelift - front
News
16 Sep 2021

New 2022 Ford Fiesta unveiled with fresh looks and tech boost

Ford updates its Fiesta supermini for 2022, with a new family face and extra interior technology
New Ford Fiesta ST and Puma ST Mountune boast 256bhp
Ford Puma ST Mountune and Ford Fiesta ST Mountune
News
4 Jun 2021

New Ford Fiesta ST and Puma ST Mountune boast 256bhp

British tuner Mountune has launched two new performance packs for Ford Puma ST and Mk8 Fiesta ST, with the more potent m260 boasting 256bhp
2021 British Rallycross Championship 5 Nations Trophy: electric vs petrol
Rallycross Championship 5 Nations Trophy: electric vs petrol
Features
26 May 2021

2021 British Rallycross Championship 5 Nations Trophy: electric vs petrol

New racing series sees combustion rallycross cars pitted against EVs
Used Ford Fiesta vs new Dacia Sandero
Used Ford Fiesta vs new Dacia Sandero
Car group tests
22 May 2021

Used Ford Fiesta vs new Dacia Sandero

Can Britain's best-selling car beat Britain's cheapest car? We test used Ford Fiesta against the latest Dacia Sandero