But if you’re thinking that this formula might be familiar, you are of course right, because MG Rover previously introduced a similarly styled vehicle, all the way back in 2003. It was called the Streetwise and combined the 25 hatchback with rougher and tougher styling. It was followed by Volkswagen’s Polo Dune (named Polo Cross in Europe), and Citroën even put its corporate toe in the water with the C3 XTR. The demise of MG Rover in 2005 put pay to the Streetwise, and the Polo Dune and C3 XTR were both quietly dropped. So why does Ford think it can succeed where others have failed?
Bosses at the Blue Oval reckon that the rise in SUV and crossover popularity will result in a success story for the Fiesta Active and is so confident that it has already revealed Active versions of the Ka+ and Focus, with both models going on sale later this year.
But it’s the Fiesta that is first out of the traps and in diesel guise, comes with a choice of two 1.5-litre EcoBlue engines. The entry-level Active 1 features the 84bhp incarnation of the turbodiesel powerplant, while the better equipped Active B&O Play and Active X models have extra zip thanks to a variable geometry turbocharger-equipped 118bhp unit. At first glance, the Active is instantly recognisable thanks to the cladding around the wheelarches and bumpers, as well as unique 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rails. There’s metallic coloured scuff plates front and rear, and a bespoke rear bumper and grey infill between the rear light clusters.
The sports seats of the Active have been tested at Ford’s UK research and development centre in Dunton, Essex, and have undergone 60,000 test cycles to ensure that the chairs are resistant to wear and that the colours don’t fade when exposed to ultraviolet light. The chunky bolsters certainly hold you nicely in place when cornering, and the driving position is surprisingly spacious and multi-adjustable, despite the car’s compact exterior dimensions. The dashboard itself is furnished with soft-touch surfaces up top, but further down, and extending to the door cards, the materials become harder.
But it’s an attractive design, and has a real feeling of solidity, and though the tablet-like infotainment screen looks like an afterthought to some, we rather like it. The controls are logically placed in the main, though we reckon that the climate controls are positioned too far down the central stack, and would be more user friendly if they were placed higher. There’s a generous amount of storage, with a tray area in front of the gear lever, a deep compartment underneath the armrest, reasonable door pockets and a large glovebox.
Sat up front there’s a generous amount of leg and headroom, while at the back taller occupants may find that their hair brushes the headlining, though there’s more space in the rear than in the previous model Fiesta. There’s a few extra vital centimetres for rear legroom, and though you’ll be hard pushed to fit three adults across the rear bench seat, youngsters will be alright. With 311 litres of boot space with the seats in the upright position, it compares well to its peers. Fold the 60:40 split rear chairs down and it opens up to 1,093 litres, while a two-position boot floor allows you to store valuables out of sight. The 118bhp 1.5-litre TDCi unit is a gem, with super refinement, decent punch and an easy-going nature, while the six-speed manual gearbox is smooth, with nicely spaced ratios. Even with the accelerator pedal right to the floor, you’re unlikely to hear a peep out of the engine. Road, tyre and wind noise are similarly suppressed, making a highly refined and comfortable cruiser. Like other members of the Ford family, the Active’s handling is entertaining, with a lot of fun to be had behind the wheel.
It’ll turn in nicely, grip reassuringly and deliver a smile to the driver’s face. The steering is agile, accurate and highly manoeuvrable, especially in a crowded, town environment. And then there’s the suspension which has been set up to soak up everything that urban motoring can throw at it. It’s comfortable, well-judged and highly accomplished.
SPECIFICATIONS
On sale Now
In showrooms June 2018
Prices £19,095 to £22,085
Bodystyles 5-door hatchback
Engines 1.5 (84bhp), 1.5 (118bhp)
Trim levels Active 1, Active B&O Play, Active X
Also consider Dacia Sandero Stepway, Ford EcoSport
Model tested Active B&O Play
Price £20,985
Built in Cologne, Germany
Bodystyle 5-door hatchback, 5-seats
Layout Front-wheel-drive
Powerplant 1,499cc, 4-cylinder, 8-valve, turbo diesel
Transmission 6-speed manual
Stop-start Yes SCR No
Max power 118bhp @ 3,600rpm
Max torque 199lb ft @ 1,750-2,500rpm
Top speed 118mph 0-62mph 9.4secs
CO2 emissions 112g/km (Euro-6.2)
Economy (urban/extra urban/combined) 58.9/68.9/64.2mpg
Fuel tank size 40 litres
Range 565 miles Insurance group 9
BIK rate 27%
Size (length/width with mirrors) 4,068/1,941mm
Boot space (min/max) 311/1,093 litres
Kerb/max towing weight 1,279/1,000kg
Euro NCAP crash rating
Verdict As great to drive as other members of the Ford range, all wrapped up in highly fashionable crossover clothing.
Car rating 4
