Hot New 2018 Ford Fiesta ST To Be Offered With LSD And Launch Control

Ford has shed more light on the new Fiesta ST hot hatch ahead of its European launch.

The new range-topping version of the Ford Fiesta wants to retain the crown in the hot hatch segment, promising even bigger driving thrills along with more refinement.

The highlight is of course the engine, which is the new 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost. Rated at 197hp (200PS) and 213lb-ft (290Nm) of peak torque, the new turbo three-pot produces the same exact numbers with the previous Fiesta ST200 and promises to provide a unique soundtrack.

It also features a cylinder deactivation system for better fuel efficiency, allowing it to run on two cylinders on light throttle loads. The engine is paired with a new active exhaust as well.

Ford claims that the new Fiesta ST is capable of a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 6.5 seconds (0.4 seconds quicker than the previous ST200) and of a top speed of 144mph (232km/h).

The hot Fiesta will also become available with an optional mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential for better traction, as well as a Launch Control system that’s supported by a dedicated graphic display on the instrument cluster.

More importantly, the chassis has been optimized with new Ford-patented force vectoring springs that make the turn-in sharper, improve the rear end’s responsiveness and provide a generally more connected feel of the car.

“Hot-hatch drivers are expecting big things from this small car. We’ve applied what we’ve learned from recent Ford Performance models including the Focus RS and Ford GT to develop an all-new Fiesta ST that sets a new standard for driving fun in its segment, with a throaty three-cylinder soundtrack that will speak to petrol-heads whatever their language,” said Leo Roeks, Ford Performance director, Europe.

For the first time in a Fiesta ST, the driver will be able to choose between three different drive modes that alter things like the engine, steering, exhaust and stability control. The modes are Normal, Sport and Track.

The steering rack is bespoke to the new Fiesta ST, with Ford claiming that it’s the fastest one of any Ford Performance model and 14 percent faster than the previous generation Fiesta ST. The rear torsion beam is also new and is also the stiffest fitted to any production Ford so far.

The new Ford Fiesta ST will be available in both three- and five-door versions in Europe once it goes on sale there in a few months, riding on standard 17-inch alloy wheels. A set of 18-inch alloys are optional. The interior features Recaro sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and Ford’s SYNC3 infotainment as standard, the latter with a 6.5-inch display or an optional 8-inch display.