Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018) Review
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Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018) Verdict
Outstanding road handling. 1.6 EcoBoost engine has lots of torque. Practical and comfortable cabin. One of the best hot hatches money can buy.
Only available in three-door form. Rear seats can be a bit tight for large adults. Interior styling feels ordinary. High incidence of clutch and DMF failure.
Find out more about the Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018)
Ford has always had a knack for creating hot hatches and few models can match the history and sheer performance of the diminutive Fiesta. Indeed, over the past 40 years, the little Ford has spawned a number of highly capable cars, with the XR2, RS Turbo and previous generation ST establishing themselves in the annuals of hot hatch history.
Now it’s the turn of the sixth generation Fiesta to get the high performance ST treatment. On the outside the Fiesta ST follows the styling of the Focus ST with a large gaping grille in the front bumper and a sports bodykit while at the back there's a body-coloured diffuser, twin exhausts and a roof spoiler.
As you’d expect it gets a number of upgrades over the standard model, with sports suspension, uprated brakes and a potent 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine that produces 182PS – 20 per cent more power than the previous Fiesta ST. The hot Ford is also leaner and cleaner than its predecessor, with big improvements in economy and a 20 per cent drop in CO2 to 138g/km. Fuel consumption is also better, with a claimed 47.9mpg.
However, technically speaking, the Fiesta ST is one of the least powerful hot hatches on the market and its 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds is slower than the Peugeot 208 GTi and Renaultsport Clio. But don't be fooled into thinking the Fiesta ST is a slow car - it isn't. In fact, the latest ST is one of the fastest Fiestas ever to emerge from the ST stable.
On the road the Fiesta ST is extremely accomplished, with excellent acceleration and near perfect handling and grip. Unlike some of its rivals, the steering is razor sharp, with plenty of feedback, while 290Nm of torque ensures you’re never short of pace.
In fact, in our opinon, the Fiesta ST is the class leader in the small hot hatch market, due to its impressive performance and unparalleled flexibility. It's cheaper, more useable and better rounded than all of its rivals, while its improved economy means it isn't too expensive to run on a daily basis.
Reviews for Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.6T EcoBoost to 1.6T 200
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 29–47 mpg
The Fiesta ST is offered with just one engine - the 1.6-litre Ecoboost - which produces 182PS and 290Nm of torque. The four-cylinder engine is a huge step forward compared to the 2.0-litre Duratec found in the old Fiesta ST, with less road noise and better refinement. It also produces 20 per cent more power, while emitting 20 per cent less CO2, with 138g/km. Fuel consumption is better too, with a claimed 47.9mpg.
However, despite the gains in horsepower and torque, the Fiesta ST lags behind the competition on straight-line speed and its 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds is 0.1 slower than the Peugeot 208 GTi and 0.2 behind the Renault Clio Renaultsport. But the Ford does have a trump card with its torque - beating all of the competition with 290Nm.
Obviously, forcing all of that torque through the front-wheels presents its problems, but Ford keeps most of the torque steer gremlins at bay thanks to an electronic torque vectoring control system, which replicates a limited-slip differential.
On the road, the Fiesta ST's running gear does a brilliant job. In fact, the little Ford is almost without equal when it comes to outright performance. Indeed, with a slick six-speed gearbox providing the perfect gateway to its diminutive and punchy engine, the Fiesta ST sprints along with real gusto and is as nimble as a fox when it comes to changing direction.
The majority of power flows from 3000rpm, which means the Fiesta will gain traction in almost any gear. This makes the ST an incredibly rewarding car to drive, because you can overtake by simply dropping the throttle and not a gear.
Ford has also struck a great balance when it comes to handling. A lot of modern cars suffer from steering that's been overpowered, making the handling feel vague and detached from the road, yet Ford has spent a lot of time tinkering with the power steering system to get the balance just right.
At its zenith, the Fiesta ST is like a big go-kart, with instant acceleration and firm, responsive handling, which lets the driver throw the car into corners and power out of tight bends. The handling can also be tailored, thanks to an adjustable ESP system, which lets you switch off the computer aids.
The Fiesta ST is not a road hooligan though. In fact, if you ease up the throttle and leave the computer aids on, it can be transformed into an everyday run-around, with a practical cabin and large boot. For sure, the suspension is firm, but it never intrudes on the quality of the ride and at low speeds it feels like any other small hatch back. Things are also calm and serene on the motorway, with low road and engine noise, making the ST ideal for family transport or long runs.
If boy racing is your thing, then you can make the ST more raucous by fitting an optional power upgrade. For a fee, Ford’s in-house tuning experts Montune will provide an extra 33PS, which lowers the 0-62mph sprint to 6.7 seconds. For the majority of drivers, this will prove unnecessary, but we would recommend it to anyone who wants the ultimate hot hatch.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6T 200 | 46 mpg | 6.9 s | 140 g/km |
| 1.6T EcoBoost | 46–48 mpg | 6.9 s | 138–141 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
79%
Real MPG
29–47 mpg
MPGs submitted
357
Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 290–974 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3969–3975 mm |
| Width | 1978 mm |
| Height | 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2489 mm |
Like the standard Fiesta, the ST is a comfortable and spacious car to drive and travel in, with supportive seats and an abundance of head and leg room for those sitting in the front. Most of the trim and fixtures have been carried straight over from the standard Fiesta, but there are a few telling signs that this is no ordinary Ford, with ST badges, a racing gear stick and alloy pedals.
There are three trims to choose from – ST1, ST2 or ST3 – and base models are well kitted out, with air con, sport seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and Bluetooth. Spec up to ST2 and the interior improves with heated Recaro seats, Sony DAB audio and a four-inch colour display for the dashboard. The range topping ST3 adds sat nav, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and cruise control.
We wouldn’t describe any of the trim options as dramatic and some might struggle to tell the interiors apart from the standard Fiesta, but this is no bad thing. For us, the Fiesta is one of the best small cars money can buy and it’s understandable that Ford has sought to refine its formula, rather than rip it up and start over again.
The Fiesta ST is well suited to daily use, with a quiet and refined cabin that is well hushed on motorways and almost silent at low speeds. The dashboard has a wonderful simplicity that makes it a doddle to use, with simple controls for the air con, radio and infotainment system. The adjustable seats and steering wheel make it easy to find a good driving position. The driver also gets a clear sight of the road and a set of easy to read dials.
However, we are disappointed that Ford hasn't offered the Fiesta ST with five-doors and this can cause a bit of a problem when carrying adults in the back, because the Recaro seats are not the easiest things for passengers to climb over. Legroom is a bit limited for those over six foot in height.
The boot is a decent 290 litres in size, which drops to 276 litres if you specify an optional spare wheel. It might not sound like much, but there is enough space for a couple of small suitcases and the weekly shop. The cabin is also scattered with your usual mix of cup holders, cubby holes and pockets.
Standard equipment levels:
ST1 has 17-inch wheels, an ST bodykit, DAB audio with Sync, a leather trimmed steering wheel, ST floor mats, dual chrome exhaust, ST suspension, Quickclear windscreen and air con
ST2 adds halogen headlights with LED day running lights, Sony DAB audio with SYNC, privacy glass and the Ford power starter button.
ST3 comes with keyless entry, sat nav, cruise control, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-fold door mirrors with puddle lamps and electronic automatic temperature control.
Ford Fiesta ST (2013 – 2018) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3969–3975 mm |
| Width | 1978 mm |
| Height | 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2489 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1163–1182 kg |
| Boot Space | 290–974 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 12500 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Full-size spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £18,145–£23,145 |
| Insurance Groups | 30–31 |
| Road Tax Bands | E–F |
| Official MPG | 46.3–47.9 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.6T 182 ST 1 EcoBoost 6speed 3dr | £18,145 | 47.9 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 1.6T 182 ST 2 EcoBoost 6speed 3dr | £19,145 | 47.9 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 1.6T 182 ST 2 EcoBoost 6speed 5dr | £19,745 | 46.3 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 1.6T 182 ST 3 EcoBoost 6speed 3dr | £20,145 | 47.9 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 1.6T 182 ST 3 EcoBoost 6speed 5dr | £20,745 | 46.3 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 1.6T 200 ST200 EcoBoost 6speed 3dr | £23,145 | 46.3 mpg | 6.9 s |
Model History
- March 2012: Ford unveiled the new Fiesta ST
- January 2013: Ford announced prices
- July 2013
- June 2016: Fiesta ST200 launched
March 2012
Ford unveiled the new Fiesta ST
182PS 1.6-litre EcoBoost, 290Nm of torque, 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds, and top speed of more than 136mph. At the same time, the EcoBoost technology delivers a 20 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared with the previous Fiesta ST.
Developed by Ford’s Team RS, the new Fiesta ST delivers significant ride-and-handling improvements through the introduction of a specially tuned chassis that sits 15mm lower than the standard Fiesta; Ford’s enhanced Torque Vectoring Control system; and three Electronic Stability Control modes.
The high-contrast interior features unprecedented levels of equipment and specification to suit the sporting driver, with standard Recaro sports seats appearing in a Fiesta ST for the first time.
It will also be equipped with MyKey, which allows owners to limit performance and ensure activation of safety features for when less-experienced drivers use the vehicle; and SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated in-car connectivity system. A new bold and dynamic exterior design drives home the high performance message and features the latest Ford design signatures including a large trapezoidal grille.
The new Fiesta ST was engineered using Ford’s global Performance Car DNA and developed by Ford Team RS, the European arm of the company’s Global Performance Vehicles group. The experience of the engineering team in working with Ford’s motorsport partners to develop the Fiesta RS WRC, Fiesta Rallycross and Racing Fiesta vehicles, also proved invaluable for developing the new Fiesta ST.
Length: 3,958 mm (12’ 10") Width (electric folded mirrors): 1,722 mm (5’ 8") Width (including mirrors): 1,973 mm (6’ 6") Height: 1,481 mm (4’ 10")
January 2013
Ford announced prices
Two-series in the Fiesta ST line-up: ST at £16,995 and ST 2 at £17,995 on the road. These prices, which are up to £2000 less than segment competitors, make the Fiesta ST the most accessible new hot hatch on the UK market.
The performance star of the Fiesta range is powered by a 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost, all-aluminium, four cylinder petrol engine which combines high pressure direct injection, low inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing. The new Fiesta ST develops 182PS and peak torque of 290Nm. Sprinting from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds, the sporty ST remains capable of returning 47.9mpg and CO2emissions of just 138g/km.
Unique suspension and steering tuning and enhanced Torque Vectoring Control (eTVC) combines with a 15mm lower ride-height to deliver significant dynamic improvements.
Available in a three-door bodystyle the Fiesta ST is clearly identifiable with an imposing black honeycomb trapezoidal front grille, large rear spoiler with twin air vents and twin exhaust. Striking colour choices including Molten Orange and Spirit Blue and an optional style pack adds red brake calipers and grey alloy wheels to enhance the sporty appearance.
Standard UK specification includes 17in alloy wheels, halogen projector headlamps, ST front fog lights, DAB radio, SYNC connectivity, Thatcham CAT 1 alarm, Recaro seats My Key and air conditioning. The ST2 trim adds partial leather heated Recaro seats, Sony DAB radio, Ford keyless start, privacy glass and LED daytime running lamps.
July 2013
Ford released official power upgrades for the Fiesta ST, improving performance by 33PS. Provided by Ford’s in-house tuning experts Mountune, the upgrades will be available from September and cost £599.
June 2016
Fiesta ST200 launched
Compared with the acclaimed Fiesta ST, the Fiesta ST200 produces 10 per cent more power and 20 per cent more torque with 200PS and 290Nm from a specially calibrated 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.
The Ford Fiesta ST200 sprints 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and delivers faster in-gear acceleration for improved drivability and an even more fun-to-drive experience. To further optimise the driving experience, Fiesta ST200 also features enhanced suspension and steering, elevating its award-winning dynamic handling and ride quality.
Production of the new hot hatchback – equipped with exclusive specification including unique Storm Grey exterior, distinctive machined matt black alloy wheels and special interior detailing – begins in June with first deliveries to customers soon after.
Fiesta ST200 driving dynamics are supported by Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control (eTVC) and 3-mode Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The eTVC system applies brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering to improve road holding and reduce understeer without affecting speed. ESC offers full system intervention; wide-slip mode with limited intervention; and full ESC de-activation.
Optimised braking is delivered with 278mm front and 253mm rear disc brakes, and a larger tandem brake master cylinder than standard Fiesta models.
The Fiesta ST200 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine’s low weight also assists handling and features technologies including turbocharging, high-pressure direct fuel-injection and twin-independent variable cam timing for high power alongside 46.3mpg fuel efficiency and 140g/km CO2 emissions. The Fiesta ST200 is now available to order, priced at £22,745.
What to watch out for
Clutch of 2013 Ford Fiesta ST lasted only 16 months and 14k miles. Friction plate worn out, but DMF still servicable despite some 'high spots'. Parking brake also prone to letting go when applied when rear discs are hot. Reminder to always leave a Fiesta ST in gear when parking, and use that rather than applying the parking brake after some hot laps.
22-03-2014:Front valence of red painted Fiesta ST is highly prone to chipping and peeling lacquer. Reported on a 6,000 mile 2013 example.
12-08-2014:Engine of second hand 2013 Fiesta ST bought in March 2014 at seven months old started to rattle and needed 2.5 litres of oil 1,700 miles after purchase. Engine died and was replaced under warranty.
04-01-2016:Fiesta ST bought in August 2013 suffered many faults including high oil consumption and was sold back to the Ford dealer in February 2014. Could be the same car mentioned 12-8-2014.
21-09-2016:Report of clutch slip on March 2016 Ford Fiesta ST at less than 6 months old and 7,400 miles. Dealer and Ford blamed driver. Charged £499 for replacement clutch plus £350 for replacement DMF, which are discounted rates. See Ford Focus 2011-2013 car by car entry. (Dealer said down to driver abuse because clutch slave cylinder not faulty and it was simply put back on the car.)
05-07-2017:Report of clutch and DMF of Ford Fiesta ST3 failing at 3,000 miles. Dealer quoted £1,304 to replace them.
04-09-2018:Report from owner of Ford Fiesta ST that he had received degas pipe recall letter (should not affect STs from late 2016 on).
19-02-2019:Report of engine failure of 2014/64 Ford Fiesta ST2 1.6 Ecoboost at 35,000 miles. (See Recalls below.) Car has full service history. The dealers who sold the car carried out the last service in December last year. They also MOTd it in September. Owner spent £290 spent trying to get the fault rectified by th dealer who replaced a coilpack but it turned out the major issue is very low compression in cylinder 1. They estimated £7,200 to replace the engine. Ford Customer Service was only willing to pay £1,980.
03-03-2019:Erratic idling reported of engine of 30k mile March 2016 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Ecoboost. Owner took it back to the supplyingh Ford dealer and it has now been back three times. (The engine is anyway subject to a recall 08-01-2018: R/2018/008: THE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD MAY CRACK.) No fault coded of the problem being stored. Ford dealer now saying will get the Ford "technical people" in.
13-03-2019:Problem with severely out of date mapping in Fords's Sync 3 satnav (in this case in an April 2017 Kuga) fiinally cured by an update. If you visit https://www.ford.co.uk/owner/resources-and-support/sync-bluetooth/update#/status/ and enter your chassis number it tells you an update is required. It needs to be downloaded onto a USB stick and then loaded into the car.This takes a long time because the file is massive approx. (25GB). Enter chassis number bottom right, then it’ll find map update required and click ‘prepare maps download’ and then take it from there. This afflicts all Sync 3 sat navs to date.
18-09-2019:Report of intermittend knocking noise from transmission of 2016 Ford Fiesta ST3, starting after 6 months, when changing gear, specifically from 1st to 2nd. Dealer attempted to rectify the problem. Had the gearbox out at least 3 times, and replaced the 1st to 2nd Synchro, clutch, dual mass flywheel and gear selector cables, all to no avail. In May 2019 the gearbox developed a fault with 4th gear (apparently as a result of overheating due to the replacement Synchro), and the gearbox was replaced. But the knocking noise continued and has actually been getting worse, now apparent on almost even change from 1st to 2nd and now also 2nd to 3rd. On advice from Ford, dealer now says the noise is "normal"
