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New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!

Ford India today unveiled the much-awaited new Fiesta at a press conference in New Delhi. It will, however, be a long time before one can actually buy one off the shelf since the launch of the new Fiesta is scheduled for June 2011 (pre-bookings begin today).

The company did not divulge details about the engines saying that it will announce engine specifications at a later date. However, it appears that the new Fiesta will sport fresh engines – a 1.6-litre, TiVCT petrol and a 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine both of which have been married to 5-speed manual gearbox. In fact, DWS Auto team tried taking a quick peek under the hood of the Fiesta on display, but was promptly stopped by Ford officials who scrambled to the spot. Of course, we still managed to notice what looked like a 1.6-litre TDCi engine from the corners of our eyes! The engine cover had “Duratorq TDCi” on it.

The interiors of the new Fiesta are soothing to the eyes and well-equipped in terms of comforts and conveniences. The new Ford Fiesta is literally a mobile phone on wheels with a mobile-inspired center console, which offers a USB port, aux-in connectivity, voice-activated control system (which even controls the airconditioning) and even an electronic cruise control system. The steering is tilt adjustable, but not adjustable for reach. Also read: Ford Fiesta Classic launched; priced at Rs. 5.49 lakh – Rs 6.89 lakh!

New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!
Photo: All New Ford Fiesta

The radically-designed dashboard boasts of a deep-set tachometer and speedometer with an electronic multi-information display between them that shows the temperature, odometer and trip functions. On the centre of the dash, there is a high-mounted 4-inch LCD screen that displays audio settings and phone functions. Below the LCD screen, the layout of the audio controls and the phone controls will remind you of a cell phone keypad. The automatic climate control, too, has a rather unique-winged pattern, making the inside of the Fiesta an interesting place to be in. The new Fiesta will feature steering-mounted audio controls, aux-in port and a USB slot. Related: 2011 Ford Fiesta India launch update

New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!
Photo: New Ford Fiesta with voice recognition

The Fiesta has no air-conditioning vents in the rear, a feature which was much expected. There is a centre armrest for rear passengers which has built-in cupholders, but overall, it is cramped for a sedan, and can seat four at best, while the fifth middle passenger will have to squeeze in quite uncomfortably. Ford has tried to improve the legroom and knee-room by scooping out recesses behind the front seats. The front seats are very comfortable and well-padded, hugging the driver and passenger, with good lumbar and lower back support. The roof panel has reading lamps, a ticket holder and the rear has a notch-back -inspired boot, which offers space similar to that on the Fiesta Classic. However, loading luggage will be a tad difficult due to the high boot lip, and limited size of the boot opening.

New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!
Photo: New Ford Fiesta interiors

The Fiesta now stands further above the ground thanks to slightly improved ground clearance. The car is shod with thick, 195/60 R 15 tyres. The top-end variant offers alloy wheels and the brakes comprise discs up front and drums at the rear. It  features rear parking sensors, electronically operated ORVM (outside rear view mirrors) with electric folding and stylishly integrated indicators.

New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!
Photo: New Ford Fiesta side profile

“The new Fiesta will be a segment-leading product in India with intuitive first-in-class smart features and fuel economy that raises the bar in every way,” said Michael Boneham, president and managing director of Ford India, at the car’s unveiling.

New Ford Fiesta unveiled in New Delhi!
The 2011 Global Ford Fiesta is on display for the next couple of months at Select City Walk, New Delhi

Upon launch, the new Fiesta will take on the likes of Honda City and the Fiat Linea T-Jet. For now, it will be on display at the Ford Fiesta Cafe at Select City Mall in Saket, Delhi, for people to feast their eyes on for the next three months, while Ford gathers feedback. Of course, Ford will also be keenly waiting for the launch of Hyundai’s new Verna that’s expected soon before pulling out its pricing trump card.

Walkaround video of the 2011 Ford Fiesta sedan: