Hoot Car Guides Ford FiestaMany regard the Ford Fiesta as the definitive supermini, and it isn't hard to see why. Ford has sold over 10 million of them since the Fiesta was introduced way back in 1976, making it one of their most successful models ever. The latest version went on sale in November 2005, but it differs little from the popular 'Mark VI' that was introduced in 2002. As ever, Fiesta designers have cornered the market with a stylish exterior, sporty performance and a heap of safety features. On top of that it's cheap to buy and to run, and with Hoot Car Insurance Services, finding cheap Ford car insurance is a snap. The Ford Fiesta at first glance
The 2005 face-lift brought the Fiesta's looks (which were always heavily influenced by it's larger sibling the Focus) bang up to date, and it now manages to look angular and aerodynamic at the same time. Particular attention has been paid to the front and rear headlamps, which have been reshaped, and the bumpers.
The new model is also noticeably bigger than previously, partly to accommodate new safety devices and partly to allow driver and passengers more room on the inside. What's it like to drive?
It's strong in almost every respect, but what really sets the Fiesta apart from other superminis is its great handling, which stays firm and responsive at all times. As a result, even the most basic models are terrific fun to drive.
Engine performance is a little more lacklustre once you get onto the Motorway, particularly with the smaller sizes available (petrol models come in either 1.25-, 1.4- or 1.6 litre variants), but their refinement and reliability makes up for this. After all, the Fiesta is a city car at heart - and miles of straight carriageway just rob it of the chance to shine. Space and seating
The Fiesta comes in the standard three-door or five-door configurations, and feels surprisingly roomy inside. There's ample space for four comfortable passengers in the cabin and plenty for luggage or shopping in the boot.
The rear seats can be folded forward to create extra boot space if needed. However, they don't actually fit flush to the car bed, meaning your expanded load area ends up with a somewhat awkward step. Safety features
A middle-spec Fiesta is awash with safety devices, and even the most basic models come with anti-lock brakes and driver- and passenger airbags. Adding side and curtain airbags is a cheap and worthwhile investment.
The Fiesta performed well in Euro NCAP testing, scoring four out of five stars for 'Adult Occupant' safety and two stars (out of four) for 'Pedestrian'. A driver's extremities are generally better-protected than his torso, but the risk of serious injury to any part in a crash is reassuringly minimal. Price and running costs
At £7,995 to £13,595 across the range, Ford has set the asking price for a Fiesta fairly high. However, the supermini market is ultra-competitive at present, and you can expect substantial discounts at the dealership for a minimal amount of haggling.
All the engine sets are reliable and fuel efficient (though not inspiringly so), keeping running costs and garage bills to an affordable minimum. This, combined with the Fiesta's good NCAP ratings, should earn you a great motor insurance quote, too. Buying secondhand
Previous generations of the Fiesta have all been great superminis, and it's hard to go wrong when buying a used model. Older versions than the Mark VI may seem a little cramped, but the sparkling handling has been a feature since right back in 1976.
Rapid depreciation and sheer volume of Fiestas produced over the years means that secondhand prices can be ridiculously cheap, and so too are parts and servicing for old models. Looking for Ford car insurance?
If you've just bought one of these amazing superminis, you'll probably be in the market for an amazing motor insurance quote to go with it - much like the specially-tailored Ford car insurance on offer at Hoot Car Insurance Services.
At Hoot, we provide a great standard of cover without the hefty price tag you might be expecting. The secret is simple: we cut out all the unnecessary expenses (like advertising, and renting shop space on the high) and pass the savings onto you, in your car insurance premiums. So for a seriously cheap car insurance quote, just click below. 
|
