Ford Fiesta Titanium Econetic 1.6 TDCi 5dr Car Review - March 2012

Delivering a maximum power output of 95 bhp at 5750 rpm with torque 94 lb-ft at 4200 rpm, this car is capable of fairly impressive power credentials given its class. A top speed of 111 mph is more than enough for a family car and is especially good for a vehicle classed as eco-friendly. Acceleration is also fairly good and this model reaches 0-62 mph in 12.9 seconds - which is marginally slower than in the standard Ford Fiesta Titanium 1.4 5dr.

The cars fuel consumption is also impressive with a maximum fuel efficiency of 78.5 mpg achieved on a combined cycle. The cars power output is 95 bhp and low CO2 emissions of just 95 g/km make this the perfect car for families - being beneficial to both personal finances and the environment.

Standard features are the same in this model as they are in the standard Ford Fiesta Titanium 1.4 5dr. Alloy wheels, electric front windows, electric door mirrors, central locking, power steering, stability control and climate control are all provided as standard fixtures with other options available at cost.

The exterior can be enhanced with the option of a metallic paint finish for a cost of £495. The interior, which is well equipped, can benefit from enhanced comfort through the addition of leather seats costing £750. Other cost options include rear parking sensors, which increase safety and practicality and are priced at £275.

In-car technology such as an advanced stereo system with MP3 connectivity is also provided as standard and this means there is plenty to keep drivers and passengers entertained.

This car is highly practical for family use, with the five door access ensuring that loading and unloading the car is easy. Alongside this, the fuel economy achieves 78.5 mpg on a combined cycle making the running costs affordable and extremely appealing to families on a budget.

The boot space is typical for a small family car and when the seats are upright it provides 295 litres of space, expanding this to 979 litres when the seats are folded down. The car is also covered by a three year warranty for 60,000 miles, giving buyers the assurances they need over reliability. The model also benefits from the strong reliability record of Ford, allowing customers to expect few problems from this car.

Security levels are also high with driver, passenger and front side airbags all fitted as standard whilst an alarm and immobiliser are also fitted to protect the car from theft. The car also performed well in the NCAP crash tests where it achieved five out of five for occupant safety and four out of five for child safety, giving it respectable commendations for security.

The car is not overly cheap considering its status as a budget family car and has a purchase price of £16,445. However, the vehicles green credentials are high and this means that it operates efficiently, offering owners future savings.

For those looking for a reliable and safe family car, this model could therefore be a wise investment and the future savings more than make up for the initial outlay. However, the car still lacks some of the equipment and luxuries expected from modern cars and those wanting a more advanced vehicle will need to consider other models.