Ford Fiesta ST review

The Fiesta ST undercuts the Peugeot 208 GTi and Renault Clio RS on price, although it's more expensive than the Suzuki Swift Sport. Finance buyers, meanwhile, will notice that Fords PCP deals make the Fiesta ST a tantalising alternative to the Volkswagen Polo GTI. 

Two trims are available: ST-2 and ST-3. Standard equipment isn’t stingy, with 17in alloy wheels, climate control, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, keyless start and cruise control all included. ST-3 adds 18in alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, power-folding door mirrors, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and keyless entry. The Performance Edition tops the range with all the aforementioned performance upgrades and a hefty price tag. 

All models come come with lane-keeping assistance and ST-3 includes traffic sign recognition. Unfortunately, no Fiesta ST is available with automatic emergency braking (even though the standard Fiesta is). In its Euro NCAP safety tests, the Fiesta was also outscored by the Polo for adult, child and pedestrian protection.

Ford ranked 18th out of 31 brands in the 2018 What Car? Reliability Survey – one place below Volkswagen. Suzuki did infinitely better, finishing in first place. 

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