The word “Frugality” is one of the most common words appear in every automotive websites. In Wikipedia, it is defined as “the quality of being frugal, sparing, thrifty, prudent or economical in the use of consumable resources such as food, time or money, and avoiding waste, lavishness or extravagance”. But for motoring pundits, frugality simply means: “Living without wasting your gas”! And why am I saying this?
A week ago, I felt like—I was in the 60’s singing Frank Sinatra’s song, “The Second Time Around” as I test-drive the 2012 Ford Fiesta 1.6-liter Sport hatch. It was actually July last year—when we had the chance to drive and take FoFi (acronym for Ford Fiesta) for a quick spin. On our test, we’ve mentioned how practical and reasonable the Fiesta is. It was also last year—when Ford sets a 16-grueling hour of fuel economy challenge to media contingents—achieving a remarkable 23.66 km/L and beating DOE’s 17-km/L fuel economy.
At first look, the Fiesta is easy recognizable—due to vehicle’s dynamic headlamp and attention drawn complimented on the lower bumper flanks by round fog lamps. Fiesta’s profile emphasizes its poised attitude and sporty-style.
I just noticed that the driving position of the Fiesta is like being inside the rally car—the tiller adjusts for both reach and rake, and cabin also offers premium vibes. Though, I had hard time adjusting the circle knob lever to reclined the position on the driver seats.
In terms of handling, the car handles exceptionally well with a gutsy 1.6 liter DOHC engine with variable valve timing for intake and exhaust that provides better acceleration. Economy-wise, the Ford Fiesta averages 15 km/L on city driving, and 18 km/L on highway.
As you step inside, the interior looks more matured—thanks to the soft-touch dash top, metallic accents, and edgy styling. The center stack controls for the audio system looks odd at first—but prove intuitive—while the three-knob climate control system couldn’t be easier to use. On safety department, the Fiesta features airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and stability traction control.
Now who would ever thought that the very first Fiesta that produced in Valencia Spain in 1976—would be Ford’s practical and economical response to the global fuel crisis. The rest is just history!
With the new Ford Fiesta, the decades-old favorite is still looking good than ever and appeals has spanned generations of drivers with its attractive styling, efficiency, practicality and performance.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Vehicle: 2012 Ford Fiesta Sports
- Type: Subcompact hatch
- Engine: 1.6-liter DOHC
- Maximum power 121 ps at 6000 rpm
- Maximum torque 151 Nm at 4500 rpm
- Transmission 6-Speed Powershift dual clutch A/T
DIMENSIONS
- Length 3,950 mm
- Width 1,973 mm
- Height 1,496 mm
- Wheelbase 2,489 mm
- Tire Size 195 / 50 R16
- Wheels 16-inch alloy wheels
- Price as tested P 826,000.00
THE GOOD
- Good looks
- Perky performance
- Stylish interior
- Smooth drive
- High fuel-economy
- PowerShift transmission
THE BAD
- Difficult opening of power window (for 6-foot driver)
- Limited cargo space