Ford Fiesta Zetec 1.0T EcoBoost Start/Stop 5dr Car Review - April 2013

With only 99bhp under the bonnet it is easy to underestimate this little car, but it accelerates well from a standing start, going from 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds, which means it is no slouch. The steering is brisk to respond to the wheel with plenty of grip and minimal body roll, and the suspension keeps the ride comfortable and easy to live with. The top speed of 112mph is more than enough for the normal use of the car, with a little engine noise and suspension noise the only criticisms at motorway speed.

The option to adjust the seat height is great for taller drivers, while there is plenty of space in the foot well and enough legroom to drive comfortably.

The revamped look of the Ford Fiesta has brought the car up to date with the large grilles being used on so many smaller cars now, with the sleek lines and streamlined headlight clusters giving the front end a dynamic look. Inside the cabin there does seem to be quite a lot of buttons to deal with, but the dials are clear enough and the neon blue information screen is easy to read in all conditions.

All of the usual equipment such as a CD player with an MP3 input is included as standard, and the electric heated mirrors are a nice touch that will make those cold mornings a little easier. The Zetec trim levels also brings in the air conditioning option, while the alloy wheels really do add to the look of the car.

With nippy handling and space for five at a squeeze, this version of the Ford Fiesta is perfect for a small family or a young driver, with the five-door option making it much more practical when carrying more than two people. The split seats are useful, but like most small cars compromises have to be made somewhere in terms of space, and the small boot and limited rear legroom is where this price is paid.

The Fiesta achieved the full five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, and with a good range of airbags it should look after you and your passengers in case of an accident. The record of Ford in terms of reliability is usually rated quite well by drivers in the annual survey, while the package of a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty is fairly standard for this type of vehicle.

With the continuing rise of insurance and fuel costs, the 1.0 litre Ecoboost Start/Stop engine is becoming an increasingly attractive option, although the initial outlay is a little higher than for the less efficient models. The list price of £14,345 for this model does put it up in the price bracket of some larger rivals, but Ford dealers have a good reputation for being willing to make a deal on the price.

The average fuel efficiency of 65.7mpg is particularly impressive, but the Ford Fiesta doesn't quite match up to some of its rivals when it comes to retaining its value well. The Fiesta is priced between smaller rivals like the Hyundai i10 and the slightly larger cars like the Volkswagen Polo, and comes out well in comparisons with both vehicles. The Ecoboost engine will pay off handsomely for those doing higher mileages, with the small luxuries in the trim keeping the car comfortable to drive.