Impressions of the best-sellers will have to wait. There is an entry 1.2-litre 68bhp, but this labours to 62mph in 16.9secs. Most will choose the 1.2-litre 82, which chops over 3.5secs from this yawning time. There's a 1.4-litre petrol and diesel too, the former offering an automatic option. We enjoyed the 1.6s instead.
The TDCi 90 diesel seems to lack 20bhp and a gear ratio, but is otherwise it's the smooth-revving, sophisticated Ford diesel we're well familiar with. Usefully torquey and with mid-range go you actually feel does something, it's linear and easy - if not exactly fast. No, more excitement comes from the brand-new, £500-cheaper 1.6 petrol.
Stocked up with variable cam timing, the Ti-VCT 120 is a gem. For a modern 'eco' petrol, it's amply useful at lower revs, but comes alive above 4500rpm. Then, to a twin-cam growl, it flings ever-harder to the redline (and, on test cars, well beyond), serving up punch and alacrity in ample measure.
Ford petrols never used to be this sweet - it's an absolute corker, and like the diesel, is mated to one of the best gearboxes around. The snappy, easy shift is as accurate as the brakes and throttle, all helping make the Fiesta a delight to control. Something that will satisfy everyone, not just enthusiasts.
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