In recent years, Ford’s supermini has fallen behind as rivals have been updated and improved. With this all-new model, however, Ford has propelled its contender back into the spotlight. Excellent dynamic performance, eye-catching style and a roomy interior are sure to make it a hit. Only the slightly uninspired packaging is a letdown. So has our supermini champ the Corsa met its match already? To find out, click here...

At last, the wait is over. Ford’s new Fiesta has arrived, and Auto Express is first to drive it! In a world exclusive, we’ve driven and tested the first example of the supermini to hit UK soil so we can deliver the definitive verdict on the most important new model of the year.

And after Ford’s success with the Focus, Mondeo and Kuga, expectations are running high. For starters, it is going to turn heads with its large, swept-back headlamps, steeply rising waist and high-mounted rear lights. There are three and five-door styles, and Zetec S trim also adds a neat bodykit.

The cabin has Mondeo-style dials and a centre console design that’s been influenced by mobile phones. Crowned by a large LCD display screen, it helps to give the interior the same fresh look as the outside. Our only gripe is the quality of plastics, as some don’t match those of the class leaders.

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2017 Vauxhall

Corsa

64,896 milesManualPetrol1.4L

Cash £5,295

View Corsa

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2015 Volvo

XC60

148,809 milesManualDiesel2.0L

Cash £6,495

View XC60

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2016 Peugeot

308

51,200 milesManualPetrol1.2L

Cash £6,195

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2018 SsangYong

Tivoli

69,204 milesManualPetrol1.6L

Cash £4,695

View Tivoli

Despite being only marginally bigger than the outgoing car, the latest Fiesta fits five adults easily, and the boot is 281 litres. The cabin lacks the clever seating systems of the Honda Jazz and Nissan Note, but there are lots of features more commonly seen in big cars. Our range-topping Titanium model had optional keyless start, cruise control, a trip computer, powered mirrors, automatic lights and wipers, plus five airbags – but no sat-nav, even as an option.

So there’s lots of extra equipment – but the Fiesta’s weight has dropped by 40kg to improve performance, while boosting fuel economy and lowering emissions.

The most frugal variant is the ECOnetic, capable of 76.3mpg with a CO2 figure of 99g/km. But even the 1.6-litre TDCi we drove achieves 67.3mpg while pushing out only 110g/km in emissions. The smooth, refined unit offers punchy performance, so the car is equally at home whether zipping around town or effortlessly racking up the motorway miles.

Improved sound insulation and aerodynamics make the Ford quieter than ever, giving it big-car standards of refinement.

On the road, the new electric power-assisted steering is well weighted and direct, giving the Ford sharp responses and amazing agility. Tight bends and mid-corner bumps can’t upset its composure, while the slick five-speed box has a beautiful feel. Ride comfort is excellent, too. The fresh Fiesta has been well worth the wait.

See how the new Fiesta performs on the road in our exclusive video feature!