While we're waiting around for the standard model to arrive, Ford of Europe is already busy tweaking the Fiesta hatchback. Today it announced a new Sport+ model for European customers only.
Don't get too jealous though as this is nothing more than an appearance package, there are no mechanical upgrades. Still, it looks pretty good for an inexpensive hatchback.
Basically the Sport+ adds a full body kit, 17-inch wheels and is limited to either white with blue stripes or blue with white stripes. The interior gets black leather and a couple "Sport" badges.
throwback says:
10:30 AM, 03/12/10
Nice, but I am still doubtful as to this car will selling well in the US when gas is well under $3 per gallon. As a country, we do want fuel efficient cars, I'm not sure we want small fuel efficient cars. What we need are 40 mpg non-hybrid (affordable) Fusions. One of Fords 2.0 diesel engines would accomplish this. I still think diesels will sell if we could get them. VW sells every one they ship over.
hank_ford says:
11:56 AM, 03/12/10
Wow - I want one! I like the stripes...
http://www.facebook.com/SoCalFord
robert4380 says:
01:10 PM, 03/12/10
Forget the apperance package. I'd settle for a normal 3 door Fiesta instead of the 5 door or the sedan we'll be getting *grumble grumble grumble*.
beermagazine says:
03:20 PM, 03/12/10
@throwback Why won't it sell again? Every model car has grown over the years. The Civic is the size of an old Accord, the 3-series is old 5-series size so these small cars are the return of cheap small cars. Not to mention the fit, SCION, and all the other cars seem to sell really well. These aren't for a family of 6 they are for young adults, college kids and people who can't afford a big dumb SUV..or the insurance of high HP.
Personally I like it and think it will sell well. They just need to give use the Focus RS in full 300hp form.
laguna1 says:
05:25 PM, 03/12/10
@Beermagazine; While you are correct about superminis being aimed at younger people, families of 5 will buy one and use it solely as a family car.
I completely disagree with Edmunds when they call this an inexpensive hatchback; a range-topping UK spec Fiesta with most options will cost $28k, however, discounts of $4,500 are available.
oscarmv says:
10:08 AM, 03/13/10
@ laguna1: Keep in mind that Euro car prices tend to be higher across the board than US ones (VAT and other taxes make up for most but not all of the difference).
Take out about 20% of the UK price and you're probably closer to a likely price point for this car in the US, were it to be brought here.
herrstreet says:
08:48 PM, 03/14/10
I'd have to say I agree that this will be a tough sell when gas is below $4. I saw one at the show and it's extremely handsome - but the money spent to get the Focus will be worth the extra 2k or sacrifice of option package for most americans.