Ford to rebadge Fiesta to Fiesta Classic

While we are expecting the 2011 Ford Fiesta anytime soon in India, speculation that Ford might re-badge the current Fiesta models as ‘Fiesta Classic’ is quite surprising.

The Fiesta was launched just 6 years ago, in 2005, and while it does live up to the manufacturer’s claim of being a driver’s car, we wonder why Ford would dub it a ‘Classic.’ Unless it plans to continue selling the existing version alongside 2011 Ford Fiesta.

The Fiesta today competes with the Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Aveo, Maruti SX4, Honda City and Hyundai Verna. Competition has stiffened in recent years, especially after the launch of the current segment leader Maruti Swift Dzire, the spacious Tata Manza and the gorgeous Fiat Linea.

The Fiesta diesel had been in great demand owing to its fuel-efficient nature and enjoyable drivability. However, competition has upped the ante considerably. Take for example, the new multijet diesel engine from Fiat. Fiesta’s 1.4 litre, 67 hp, 160 Nm Duratorq TDCi doesn’t quite match the performance offered by Fiat’s 1.3-litre multijet diesel motor (Turbo Direct Common Rail diesel injection technology), which is used in the Maruti Swift Dzire and Tata Manza, producing 75 hp/190 Nm and 89 hp/200 Nm respectively. The latter is finer, more refined and offers competent fuel economy as well.

The Fiesta petrol, especially the 1.6S sports version, is the cheapest ‘fun to drive’ car. Despite its conservative styling, the car’s sporty drive make it one of the most popular sedans around. The 14-inch tyres further enhance the under-stated design.

On the inside, the Fiesta has plenty of chrome inserts that lend it an upmarket feel. The cabin is made up of sturdy plastic, has lots of ergonomically placed cubbyholes and storage spaces. Safety features include driver-side airbag, ABS with EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), anti-theft engine immobilizer, child lock, central locking, anti-submarine seats, fuel cut off in case of a collision and ELR (emergency locking retractor).

Fiesta is currently offered at prices upward of Rs.6.23 lakh. This brilliantly engineered car will soon be sold alongside the new Fiesta, which is attractive than the current model.