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- Highs Outstanding corner-carving ability, excellent manual transmission, competitive storage space.
- Lows Bargain-basement interior materials, acceleration could be better, lack of up-market infotainment features.
- Verdict The 2018 Ford Fiesta ST is a hot-hatch goldmine, with firm but comfortable suspension, exuberant handling, and a slick-shifting manual transmission.
Overview
The Fiesta ST isn’t as bad-ass as the die-hard Ford Focus RS, but it's still barrels of fun. Its manual-only gearbox is approachable, its suspension is lively but not harsh, and it’s even thrifty on gas. It’s powered by a zippy turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four that feeds the front wheels through a six-speed transmission. While the Fiesta ST is extremely affordable entertainment, its cut-rate interior and cramped back seat carry over from the even cheaper and less exciting regular Fiesta. Still, this pint-sized performance hatchback is a back-to-basics option that rewards drivers of all skill levels.
What's New for 2018?
The current generation of the feisty Fiesta ST hatchback enters 2018 without much change. A backup camera becomes standard, and that's about it. Still, we’re thankful that Ford saw fit to keep selling the Fiesta ST for another model year rather than ending production.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- ST: $22,160
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Fiesta ST is motivated by a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four that produces 197 hp and 202 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with an excellent six-speed manual gearbox, which is the only available transmission. It doesn’t scoot from zero to 60 mph as quickly as we’d like, but if speed were measured in smiles per minute, the Fiesta ST would be a bullet. Thrashing the ST around twisty two-lanes, deserted parking lots, and backwater byways is endlessly enjoyable. Comfort isn’t compromised by the firm suspension, because Ford’s engineers did a fantastic job of balancing ride and handling. The Fiesta ST is a performance party where everyone’s invited—and the cover charge is cheap.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Fiesta ST's cabin is decidely downscale but still practical and well-equipped, with good control ergonomics. The optional Recaro sport seats are aggressively bolstered—perfect for the ST's cornering performance—but may not comfortably fit all body shapes. Like a lot of cars in this class, the back seat is a tight fit. Despite its compact size, the ST's interior storage and cargo volume are competitive with bigger rivals.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Fiesta ST comes with Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, which is as user-friendly as the rest of the car. It sports a smallish 6.5-inch touchscreen but nonetheless works well, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. An eight-speaker Sony audio system is standard, but it would be nice to be able to upgrade to a more premium stereo. A navigation package is an extra-cost option. Absent from the infotainment playlist are an auxiliary input and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Ford Fiesta ST’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
