Ford Fiesta – updated range

Ford has given the Fiesta range a new lease of life with two new editons: a sporty, new Metal version and an efficient but generously-equipped Titanium ECOnetic variant. 

The Fiesta Metal will effectively replace the limited-edition S1600 in the line-up and is powered by a 134bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine. Just 1,000 units of them will be produced, with each able to accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds.

On the move there's a rorty exhaust note and the 1.6-litre engine provides plenty of go but does its best work at the top of the rev range. Fuel economy stands at 47.9mpg, with CO2 emissions of 139g/km. 

With sports suspension fitted as standard, the Fiesta's excellent chassis can really shine with turn-in sharp and precise. In the bends body-roll is almost non-existent and there's more grip than you'll ever need on the roads. 

The ride is comfortable and the well tuned suspension will happily soak up rough roads – that's despite it being slightly firmer than the standard set-up and its large 17-inch alloys. 

The visual makeover includes black paintwork with gloss black alloys and a new aggressive bodykit. There's a generous list of equipment as standard, such as heated leather sports seats, stainless steel scuff plates and a piano black centre console.

Fiesta Titanium ECOnetic

We've also driven the new Fiesta Titanium ECOnetic, which is powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine and claims fuel economy of 78.5mpg on top of tax-free CO2 emissions of 95g/km – that's an improvement of 3g/km over the previous ECOnetic models. There's a luxurious array of kit too, like air-con, cruise control, Bluetooth and automatic lights and wipers. 

On the road, it feels absolutely nothing like an eco special. The torquey engine provides enough power for everyday driving and there's plenty of fun to be had in the corners too.

The only time you're reminded how efficient this car is, is when you glance at the trip computer – during our test we managed to achieve a figure of 75.6mpg. Although that figure drops quite quickly when you're sitting in traffic, suggesting the addition of a stop and start system would be welcome. 

Ford has revealed the Fiesta Titanium ECOnetic will start from £15,645, while the Fiesta Metal will cost £15,695. 

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