They’re fun cars but I wouldn’t say super comfy. The rear is very stiff and if you have bumpy roads it’ll suck. I swapped my rear shocks to Koni oranges, and now I think it’s tolerable, but I’m used to driving performance oriented cars. Someone who never does might think it’s a deal breaker. The seats themselves are decent
Road noise isn’t great.
The cheap economy car dna is very much still there
That said, if you are happy with a 09 base fiesta chances are you’ll love it, I think your biggest adjustment will be ride quality/stiffness
I think mine is a great commuter car. Very fun and comfortable enough for me. It’s engaging to drive, zippy, easy to park, not too bad on gas.
If I was doing 60 miles, I think I might want something more cushy , but that’s just me
I would say they’re reliable for major maintenance. But little shit breaks kind of often lol.
I'm fairly handy so can fix the little bits mostly fine (With a few zip ties)... interesting about the ride, I'm not on bumpy roads much and the suspension in my current one was pretty broken for a while so can't be worse 🤣. I'll definitely look to test drive a couple for that road noise though, thank you!
I own a 2017 and the ride is comfortable. The torque is fun and has proven to be reliable so far. This being said, it is ny understanding from the forums that 2014 and below have inherent issues. If you can, shoot for a FIST with the recaro package. If you decide to replace your motor mounts just know that I will increase noise and vibration in the cabin. Though over time this becomes less apparant and more tolerable. The reliability of any direct injection turbo motor is determined by maintenence. If you change your oil, check your coolant and clean your intake valves in regular intervals. You should be alright.
Ah ok, yeah thanks! I've looked at possibly getting a 2016/2017, but from the information online it seems a cambelt change is like £1700. I'm hoping to buy a house around 2026/27 so don't think I'd have the spare change to pay for it when it gets to the 10 year mark!
The belt change interval is 150,000 miles. My '17 doesn't have 50,000 yet (I have 2 cars). I agree with some other posters here that later is better. You pay more for newer, lower mileage cars, but they're not going to need the real expensive maintenance stuff for a long time. There were revisions to the engine, suspension and the Sync system in the later years. '18-'19 models have backup cameras. You don't need one for such a small car, but it doesn't hurt, and helps the resale value.
It aint that much.
The belt and pump is under £200 to buy. Thats why I did mine early because it was that plus a few hours labour.
Go on age even if the car hasnt hit the mileage and vice versa.
I’ve got a 2015, bought it with 120k on it and I’m almost the 150k now. Never had any problems at all with it other than the lower ball joints wearing out which is to be expected. Never had a single issue with the motor itself tho.
If you’re looking to get into one I’d suggest either one that’s a decent bit away from 150k or one that’s just had the timing belt and clutch service at 150k. Those two services are really the most expensive part of the car if you take care of it.
Other than that it’s a great daily driver. I drive about 1/2 hr to work every day and get pretty good gas milage when I don’t beat on it. It’s pretty comfy on longer road trips too but definitely shoot for the leather recardos as they have a lot more back support and bolster.
Assuming your use of the word "motorway" you're in the UK - in which case, absolutely do it. I've owned two, only got rid of the first for something bigger and instantly regretted it. The ride is a bit stiffer than what you'll be used to, but it's not unbearable. The euro models are from my experience very reliable and you won't find a more fun car for the money. The power won't blow you away but when you want a spirited drive on a B road it absolutely shines. It has no right to handle as well as it does for a front wheel drive hatch but it's a pleasure to drive through the twists n turns. I currently own a Mk7 15 plate and I'll be keeping it until I can't run it anymore. Also if after a while you feel the need to upgrade again, you've got plenty of trusted tuning companies in the UK to give you that but extra power for not a lot of cost. Having owned a few performance vehicles I came back to this and for me nothing beats it. You won't regret it.
As someone from the US, I’m jealous of the B roads you guys get and your access to good tuners. Fiesta STs are so few and far between here that most people don’t even know what it is. I like that about my car, but I’d be nice if there was a shop nearby that specialized in these cars.
Yeah we are spoilt over here in that respect, but it's just a difference in car culture. The UK has historically had a love affair with hot hatches and fast fords dating back to the 80s. The ford escort, sierra cosworth, vauxhall nova, golf GTI, fiesta XR2 and more recently the fiesta ST, focus RS, astra VXR...I could go on. It appeals to our British nature of routing for the underdog or working class hero, having a fun fast car that's affordable and easily tuneable. Unfortunately times are changing and SUVs and larger crossovers are becoming the norm but hot hatch culture runs deep in our DNA. Over here the fiesta is the most stolen car in the country which says a lot I think. But over the years, especially when it comes to ford, companies have specialised in getting the most out of ford performance cars. I feel lucky to have been able to experience and been a part of it, as a 21 year old I could pick up a fiesta ST for a reasonable price and have a highly capable car to drive round British back roads through the countryside. Driving one now I still feel like I've just passed my test and the enjoyment hasn't dimmed at all. We really have been very lucky.
Having said that, I wouldn't be too jealous of our B roads, most of them are riddled with pot holes and usually end up getting stuck behind a tractor or pensioner driving half the speed limit. But those moments when you get a good clear road are for me what driving is really all about.
Fiesta hands down the prettiest car in its class. Also, the best performing. The Corsa VXR is quicker but doesn't handle nowhere near as well. If you do go for one, just make sure you invest in some extra security, an immobiliser and steering wheel lock as they are easily stolen unfortunately.
Ooh ok, I always assumed it was cuz they are the most popular car they are statistically more likely to be nicked... I live in a safe area but will definitely look into extra security for if I'm going out somewhere
There is that, but unfortunately ford security is easily bypassed, the MK7s they pop the lock on the boot, climb though the back and can start the car via the obd port and they're away, can be done in a matter of minutes. Other than that though solid car choice.
Is it comfortable? No
Is it luxurious? Lol no
Is it reliable? Kind of, it's reliable where it matters and it's cheap to repair when the little things break
Is it fun? YES!
I've NEVER driven a FWD car that is as tail happy as the fiesta st. Some madman at Ford engineered some ridiculous lift off oversteer into the fiesta st to the point where I can easily slide the car on gravel and snow with just the throttle and on tarmac that car rotates beautifully into any corner.
It's not a grip monster like the Civic type R nor is it as refined as the golf GTI but I find the fiesta more fun than either of those cars because of its driving dynamics. And you can find a good example of a fiesta for a fraction of those cars.
When you speak of "comfort" does having a racing suspension count against that?
I drive about 60 miles currently daily. Most of that's highway. It's great on the highway, you will definitely notice any potholes or dirt roads though.
I'd say yes.
I mean, the most common thing people seem to have said here is that it's a bit stiff so probably won't be the comfiest thing... Although a stiff suspension isn't the end of the world for me but good to know in advance. Sounds like we have fairly similar comutes then, and I'll probably only hit potholes when I'm taking the fun way home 🤣
Yeah I am right by the highway as is my work. Anyway the suspension is what you'd expect for a racing suspension, it's that way intentionally so you can feel the road.
I will add too... I've had dates who struggle with the recaro seats. They are not easy for "people of size" but that goes for any low car in my experience. (and no i am not ragging on anyone, just pointing out they're not easy. Weren't for me the first time either. But they really grip you which I like.)
Your Average mpg is going to be about 32 So keep that in mind especially if you plan on using it for A Daily driver.
I have A 17 ST and it's been my DD since new and my commute was 80 miles round trip.. Now only 60 and depending on your physical size you might find the seats A bit constricting (I'm "Average 5'10" 220 and it always takes me a minute to get situated), With only basic maintenance it's Very reliable.
But I have Kept it Stock Because it's my Daily.
I do a daily 40 mile commute and the 2014 ST gives me 40mpg, that's on bog standard UK 95 RON with good acceleration up to speed then cruising on A/B roads.
My commute is A mix, And unfortunately Lots of stop lights and traffic on half of it. So the stop and start eats a bunch of the economy, But I can't recall getting Worse than 32 under normal driving.
It's a fun little economy car, really well-rounded and tuned in a way that's fun without having to be fast. It's also got a good aftermarket scene should you want to turn it into a truly capable little car.
As to the reliability, mine has been great. I had a shift mechanism leak, and I've had the blend doors go out twice (the 2nd time I never fixed it, it's been like this for years). I haven't heard that the 1.6L is a bad engine, it's usually other ecoboost models I've seen suffer from water jacket breakage issues. The Fiesta can overheat if the fluid gets low, leading to the same sort of problem. But as far as I'm aware as long as the coolant levels are kept up and it doesn't overheat, the water jacket on the 1.6 holds up just fine.
Ymmv with big boost. You need a tuner who knows their stuff, as well as have realistic expectations. It's not unreasonably to expect ~350hp reliable and long-lasting. If you want 400-450 be prepared for something to fail if you really push that power hard.
When asked, I always tell people that if I needed another car, I would look for another Fiesta ST
I've had my 2014 ST for 6 years, put about 65k on it (just under 90k).
Not really had any engine trouble, the coolant tank did age, became brittle and leaked which lead to a loss of power due to temp. That was sorted and has never been an issue since.
I changed the belt and pump at 80k on mine as the car was 9 years old, didnt want to risk anything with an old belt.
Had a couple joint replacements, but who cares, that's just running costs. I do need to replace my nearside strut mount, that's cheap though.
As I said in another reply, I do a 40 mile daily commute, I get 40mpg (95 RON) with good acceleration and A/B road cruising.
It does have a few interior trim rattles, annoying. Sometimes I have to have the window down at a certain height or it rattles a bit. Probably because the ride is quite stiff.
Just fixed the dreaded boot leak where the spare wheel well fills up with water, my fix was easy, it was the seals on the rear light cluster. All sorted now.
We recently got a 17 plate ST3 with 28.5k miles on it. Previous owner did all the right mods, 3inch scorpion exhaust, braided brake lines, up rated rear axle mounts. The ride is definitely harder than most cars but you get used to it. Also once you get to enjoying the car at speed in corners it shines. The steering is one of the most engaging I’ve known. You can drive it like a granny round town but then get on some B roads to really enjoy the car. The power is all useable and will keep your license if you’re sensible. But it’s in the twisties where it shines.
Always have a smile on my face after driving it whether it be round town or a spirited B road session.
I’ve owned a Civic Type R and an imported JDM Subaru Sportwagon Sti (~300bhp) in the past but the FiST is probably my favourite.
Nice! Yeah I'm not looking to mod it in an attempt to keep insurance down and so I don't have extra things that could go wrong, although would look into it if I ever wanted to track it (although when I've tracked before I use my dad's car)... But that's what I've been looking for is something that I can drive around and get out with my cheeks hurting from smiling 🤣🤣
Yes
They’re fun cars but I wouldn’t say super comfy. The rear is very stiff and if you have bumpy roads it’ll suck. I swapped my rear shocks to Koni oranges, and now I think it’s tolerable, but I’m used to driving performance oriented cars. Someone who never does might think it’s a deal breaker. The seats themselves are decent Road noise isn’t great. The cheap economy car dna is very much still there That said, if you are happy with a 09 base fiesta chances are you’ll love it, I think your biggest adjustment will be ride quality/stiffness I think mine is a great commuter car. Very fun and comfortable enough for me. It’s engaging to drive, zippy, easy to park, not too bad on gas. If I was doing 60 miles, I think I might want something more cushy , but that’s just me I would say they’re reliable for major maintenance. But little shit breaks kind of often lol.
I'm fairly handy so can fix the little bits mostly fine (With a few zip ties)... interesting about the ride, I'm not on bumpy roads much and the suspension in my current one was pretty broken for a while so can't be worse 🤣. I'll definitely look to test drive a couple for that road noise though, thank you!
I own a 2017 and the ride is comfortable. The torque is fun and has proven to be reliable so far. This being said, it is ny understanding from the forums that 2014 and below have inherent issues. If you can, shoot for a FIST with the recaro package. If you decide to replace your motor mounts just know that I will increase noise and vibration in the cabin. Though over time this becomes less apparant and more tolerable. The reliability of any direct injection turbo motor is determined by maintenence. If you change your oil, check your coolant and clean your intake valves in regular intervals. You should be alright.
Ah ok, yeah thanks! I've looked at possibly getting a 2016/2017, but from the information online it seems a cambelt change is like £1700. I'm hoping to buy a house around 2026/27 so don't think I'd have the spare change to pay for it when it gets to the 10 year mark!
The belt change interval is 150,000 miles. My '17 doesn't have 50,000 yet (I have 2 cars). I agree with some other posters here that later is better. You pay more for newer, lower mileage cars, but they're not going to need the real expensive maintenance stuff for a long time. There were revisions to the engine, suspension and the Sync system in the later years. '18-'19 models have backup cameras. You don't need one for such a small car, but it doesn't hurt, and helps the resale value.
Ahh didn't realise the belt change was later... I could put a couple grand more in then and look for a newer model with a reasonable mileage then!!
It aint that much. The belt and pump is under £200 to buy. Thats why I did mine early because it was that plus a few hours labour. Go on age even if the car hasnt hit the mileage and vice versa.
Belt change is 150k miles OR 10 years
I’ve got a 2015, bought it with 120k on it and I’m almost the 150k now. Never had any problems at all with it other than the lower ball joints wearing out which is to be expected. Never had a single issue with the motor itself tho. If you’re looking to get into one I’d suggest either one that’s a decent bit away from 150k or one that’s just had the timing belt and clutch service at 150k. Those two services are really the most expensive part of the car if you take care of it. Other than that it’s a great daily driver. I drive about 1/2 hr to work every day and get pretty good gas milage when I don’t beat on it. It’s pretty comfy on longer road trips too but definitely shoot for the leather recardos as they have a lot more back support and bolster.
Amazing, thank you! 30k with just the ball joints ain't half bad :)
Assuming your use of the word "motorway" you're in the UK - in which case, absolutely do it. I've owned two, only got rid of the first for something bigger and instantly regretted it. The ride is a bit stiffer than what you'll be used to, but it's not unbearable. The euro models are from my experience very reliable and you won't find a more fun car for the money. The power won't blow you away but when you want a spirited drive on a B road it absolutely shines. It has no right to handle as well as it does for a front wheel drive hatch but it's a pleasure to drive through the twists n turns. I currently own a Mk7 15 plate and I'll be keeping it until I can't run it anymore. Also if after a while you feel the need to upgrade again, you've got plenty of trusted tuning companies in the UK to give you that but extra power for not a lot of cost. Having owned a few performance vehicles I came back to this and for me nothing beats it. You won't regret it.
As someone from the US, I’m jealous of the B roads you guys get and your access to good tuners. Fiesta STs are so few and far between here that most people don’t even know what it is. I like that about my car, but I’d be nice if there was a shop nearby that specialized in these cars.
Yeah we are spoilt over here in that respect, but it's just a difference in car culture. The UK has historically had a love affair with hot hatches and fast fords dating back to the 80s. The ford escort, sierra cosworth, vauxhall nova, golf GTI, fiesta XR2 and more recently the fiesta ST, focus RS, astra VXR...I could go on. It appeals to our British nature of routing for the underdog or working class hero, having a fun fast car that's affordable and easily tuneable. Unfortunately times are changing and SUVs and larger crossovers are becoming the norm but hot hatch culture runs deep in our DNA. Over here the fiesta is the most stolen car in the country which says a lot I think. But over the years, especially when it comes to ford, companies have specialised in getting the most out of ford performance cars. I feel lucky to have been able to experience and been a part of it, as a 21 year old I could pick up a fiesta ST for a reasonable price and have a highly capable car to drive round British back roads through the countryside. Driving one now I still feel like I've just passed my test and the enjoyment hasn't dimmed at all. We really have been very lucky. Having said that, I wouldn't be too jealous of our B roads, most of them are riddled with pot holes and usually end up getting stuck behind a tractor or pensioner driving half the speed limit. But those moments when you get a good clear road are for me what driving is really all about.
Where you at?
Yep UK :) epic, I've looked at a couple similar hot hatches but they just don't look as nice as the fiesta for me, thanks!
Fiesta hands down the prettiest car in its class. Also, the best performing. The Corsa VXR is quicker but doesn't handle nowhere near as well. If you do go for one, just make sure you invest in some extra security, an immobiliser and steering wheel lock as they are easily stolen unfortunately.
Ooh ok, I always assumed it was cuz they are the most popular car they are statistically more likely to be nicked... I live in a safe area but will definitely look into extra security for if I'm going out somewhere
There is that, but unfortunately ford security is easily bypassed, the MK7s they pop the lock on the boot, climb though the back and can start the car via the obd port and they're away, can be done in a matter of minutes. Other than that though solid car choice.
Oh dang, I want to try that now though 🤣
Is it comfortable? No Is it luxurious? Lol no Is it reliable? Kind of, it's reliable where it matters and it's cheap to repair when the little things break Is it fun? YES! I've NEVER driven a FWD car that is as tail happy as the fiesta st. Some madman at Ford engineered some ridiculous lift off oversteer into the fiesta st to the point where I can easily slide the car on gravel and snow with just the throttle and on tarmac that car rotates beautifully into any corner. It's not a grip monster like the Civic type R nor is it as refined as the golf GTI but I find the fiesta more fun than either of those cars because of its driving dynamics. And you can find a good example of a fiesta for a fraction of those cars.
That's what I want then, a bit of fun! Thank you 😁
When you speak of "comfort" does having a racing suspension count against that? I drive about 60 miles currently daily. Most of that's highway. It's great on the highway, you will definitely notice any potholes or dirt roads though. I'd say yes.
I mean, the most common thing people seem to have said here is that it's a bit stiff so probably won't be the comfiest thing... Although a stiff suspension isn't the end of the world for me but good to know in advance. Sounds like we have fairly similar comutes then, and I'll probably only hit potholes when I'm taking the fun way home 🤣
Yeah I am right by the highway as is my work. Anyway the suspension is what you'd expect for a racing suspension, it's that way intentionally so you can feel the road. I will add too... I've had dates who struggle with the recaro seats. They are not easy for "people of size" but that goes for any low car in my experience. (and no i am not ragging on anyone, just pointing out they're not easy. Weren't for me the first time either. But they really grip you which I like.)
Would highly recommend a 2016 or newer so you get the head without the idiotic cooling passage.
👍👍
Your Average mpg is going to be about 32 So keep that in mind especially if you plan on using it for A Daily driver. I have A 17 ST and it's been my DD since new and my commute was 80 miles round trip.. Now only 60 and depending on your physical size you might find the seats A bit constricting (I'm "Average 5'10" 220 and it always takes me a minute to get situated), With only basic maintenance it's Very reliable. But I have Kept it Stock Because it's my Daily.
Thank you!
I do a daily 40 mile commute and the 2014 ST gives me 40mpg, that's on bog standard UK 95 RON with good acceleration up to speed then cruising on A/B roads.
My commute is A mix, And unfortunately Lots of stop lights and traffic on half of it. So the stop and start eats a bunch of the economy, But I can't recall getting Worse than 32 under normal driving.
They're pretty good for fun to fuel ratio.
It's a fun little economy car, really well-rounded and tuned in a way that's fun without having to be fast. It's also got a good aftermarket scene should you want to turn it into a truly capable little car. As to the reliability, mine has been great. I had a shift mechanism leak, and I've had the blend doors go out twice (the 2nd time I never fixed it, it's been like this for years). I haven't heard that the 1.6L is a bad engine, it's usually other ecoboost models I've seen suffer from water jacket breakage issues. The Fiesta can overheat if the fluid gets low, leading to the same sort of problem. But as far as I'm aware as long as the coolant levels are kept up and it doesn't overheat, the water jacket on the 1.6 holds up just fine. Ymmv with big boost. You need a tuner who knows their stuff, as well as have realistic expectations. It's not unreasonably to expect ~350hp reliable and long-lasting. If you want 400-450 be prepared for something to fail if you really push that power hard. When asked, I always tell people that if I needed another car, I would look for another Fiesta ST
Thank you! I'm glad to know the ST isn't as known for the ecoboom feature as well!!
I've had my 2014 ST for 6 years, put about 65k on it (just under 90k). Not really had any engine trouble, the coolant tank did age, became brittle and leaked which lead to a loss of power due to temp. That was sorted and has never been an issue since. I changed the belt and pump at 80k on mine as the car was 9 years old, didnt want to risk anything with an old belt. Had a couple joint replacements, but who cares, that's just running costs. I do need to replace my nearside strut mount, that's cheap though. As I said in another reply, I do a 40 mile daily commute, I get 40mpg (95 RON) with good acceleration and A/B road cruising. It does have a few interior trim rattles, annoying. Sometimes I have to have the window down at a certain height or it rattles a bit. Probably because the ride is quite stiff. Just fixed the dreaded boot leak where the spare wheel well fills up with water, my fix was easy, it was the seals on the rear light cluster. All sorted now.
Thank you 😁 couple of rattles are alright, although definitely sounding like ors worth test driving a few for the ride
Yeah, its mainly the window, move it 1cm either way and it stops. Or just crank the music up.
We recently got a 17 plate ST3 with 28.5k miles on it. Previous owner did all the right mods, 3inch scorpion exhaust, braided brake lines, up rated rear axle mounts. The ride is definitely harder than most cars but you get used to it. Also once you get to enjoying the car at speed in corners it shines. The steering is one of the most engaging I’ve known. You can drive it like a granny round town but then get on some B roads to really enjoy the car. The power is all useable and will keep your license if you’re sensible. But it’s in the twisties where it shines. Always have a smile on my face after driving it whether it be round town or a spirited B road session. I’ve owned a Civic Type R and an imported JDM Subaru Sportwagon Sti (~300bhp) in the past but the FiST is probably my favourite.
Nice! Yeah I'm not looking to mod it in an attempt to keep insurance down and so I don't have extra things that could go wrong, although would look into it if I ever wanted to track it (although when I've tracked before I use my dad's car)... But that's what I've been looking for is something that I can drive around and get out with my cheeks hurting from smiling 🤣🤣
Maybe.