Ford Fiesta ST 2014 BETA

It was a successful small-segment hot-hatch. The sixth-generation took it to a different level.

We all know a car from the past that was named “rocket” due to its performance of a 0 to 100 kph (0-62 mph) in 7 seconds. Well, the 2012 Fiesta ST did it in 6.9 seconds and it wasn't a stripped-out car.

The ST was based on the 3-door sixth generation Fiesta. But the motorsport department decided to add some specific sporty look to the car. It wasn't quite a boy-racer design, but more subtle and still aggressive. The front bumper received a new apron and a honeycomb-look grille. In the back, the ST featured a bigger roof-spoiler than the standard Fiesta and a twin exhaust was installed under the diffuser.

Inside, the front bucket-seats were high bolstered for high-speed cornering. That was the only big difference when compared to the rest of the Fiesta range. It was well equipped, featuring the Ford SYNC infotainment system with parental control so the driver could not turn the volume too high. In the back, there was even less leg-room for the occupants, since the front seats were bigger.

Under the hood, there was a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-pot engine. It was mated as standard to a 6-speed manual. The ESP program took care of the wheelspin at the starting line and acted like a limited-slip differential. The lowered and stiffened suspension was better for cornering. Last, but not least, it featured disc-brakes in all four corners.