ST-3 adds 18in alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, power-folding door mirrors, a heated steering wheel, sat-nav, traffic sign recognition, a rear-view camera, rear parking sensors, driver and passenger lumbar adjustment and keyless entry.

The Fiesta ST's engine is a cracker, and so much more soulful than a Renault Clio RS's or VW Polo GTI's. It pulls heartily from low revs and enjoys spinning up to its limiter, all the while accompanied by a muscular, growling soundtrack that’s enhanced tastefully by a Sound Symposer. Proper pops and cracks from the sports exhaust finish the sound effects. It's certainly the most aggressive three-cylinder motor we've encountered, and the standard six-speed manual gearbox, which has a short, slick, snappy lever and well-stacked gear ratios, adds the final flourish.