Ford recently unveiled the latest addition to their range with an updated version of the highly popular Fiesta ST - the ST 200. It is set to be the fastest derivative of the Fiesta and the quickest ST by some distance. The standard Ford Fiesta has been Britain's best-selling car for a number of years and shows no signs of stopping this trend with a healthy lead at the top of the registration charts approaching the midway point of the year.
Unveiled at the 2016 edition of the Geneva Motor Show, the new Fiesta ST200 has just begun its production and the first deliveries are expected later on this summer. Among the throng of changes made to the new Fiesta ST there has been a significant boost in the vehicle's power. The original Fiesta ST's were not exactly known for their timid engine range but the recent updates really have announced this vehicle on the world stage. The new Fiesta ST 200 and its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine will hit around 290Nm of torque and upto 197bhp - thats 17bhp more than the standard ST which serves up around 180bhp. It will also take only 6.7secs to get from 0-62mph and its top speed has been touted as around 143mph.
What else has been improved?
There are new alloy wheels available, quicker steering and special damper settings on even more lowered suspension. 'Storm grey' is the only exterior paint colour available and this is complemented very well by the all black 17inch alloy wheels. The interior is obviously a cut-above standard Fiesta's with a predominantly grey & red trim, Recaro seats and neat silver stitching. There are also plenty of other additional interior options which contribute to the strength of the Fiesta ST 200 and should make it a very viable option for those looking at an affordable, high-performance hatchback that carries the weight of a strong brand.
The peace of mind of a Fiesta is one of its biggest selling factors and with over 19,000 Fiesta ST's shifted, there is a strong suggestion that the ST-200 will only improve this number. However there will only be 500 made a year so stock is likely to be very limited.
What are the competitors?
Which cars will the Fiesta ST-200 be doing battle with in the market? The first one to look at is probably the Golf GTI. VW run a close second to Ford when it comes to the best selling hatchback and with both manufacturers providing high-class performance trims, there is increased competitiveness. The GTI with its smart looks, good economy and great range of engines is still likely to flourish but the introduction of the ST-200 will certainly make it a close contest for sales. Then there is the Renaultsport Clio and Clio RS two very good cars that have a strong blend of performance without comprimsing economy (exact emission stats yet to be revealed for the ST-200) and its also worth watching out for the Peugeot Sport 208 GTi which has seen popularity steadily rise. At the top end of the scale, the Honda Civic Type R and BMW M1 provide a higher level of power but this is obviously reflected by a price increase.
