My confession is that I have not lived with a Fiesta in that time, which is a sin, because the current Fiesta is no less than a star turn. In fact, it warrants its ‘No.1’ status in the UK by being impeccably well-built, supremely well-detailed and, in Active 1.0-litre form, complete with B&O hi-fi and Ford’s twin-clutch, automated Powershift transmission, a car in which to arrive shaken but only lightly stirred.
By way of confirmation, the Active crossover model features a few shades of grey both externally and internally, accentuated by slivers of gold trim, natty seat covers and a knowing nod to the ‘Blue Oval’ with its blue dial pointers and blue-hued touch-screen at the top of the well-ordered centre stack. The design weight of every element has been considered judiciously and the Fiesta Active comes across as a cheerful, gently restrained but immensely impressive compact hatchback. Its popularity is underscored.
Powered by the 97bhp version of its 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, EcoBoost petrol-turbo engine, its performance is more than adequate. Betraying no offbeat signals, refinement is at the head of its list of competences, a factor enhanced by the application of the six-speed self-shifter. It is enough to whisk the Active to 60mph in a shade more than 11.0s, onwards to a maximum speed of 114mph, thanks to leggy gearing (almost 30mph/1,000rpm in top gear). However, it can return up to 57mpg, if you do not push too hard (38.9mpg was my average for the week), although 113g/km CO2 equates to £170 for first year (£140 subsequently) road tax.
The multi-adjustable driving position enables an extensive range of occupants to fit the car and it is an exceedingly comfortable place to reside, with first-rate support provided by the manually adjustable seat. However, place two six-footers in the front chairs and the space in the rear becomes compromised. While not as cramped as some rivals, at least the 60:40-split rears fold forwards to increase the capacity of the 292-litre boot to almost 1,100-litres. Easy access to all areas is helped by well-judged apertures.
The reassuringly solid thunk of the doors and the Fiesta Active’s engaging and superior cabin ergonomics, supported by a strong sense of belonging on our mixed bag of road surfaces, are what makes this Ford a compelling choice. This is no ‘showroom’ beauty; it rides sublimely, changes direction eagerly and feels every inch a top-drawer model.
It is not perfect, as its directional stability can be hampered by the merest whiff of a crosswind and pressing-on a bit reveals a ‘toppy’ nature to its dynamic envelope. Yet, lulled by its B&O stereo system and cosseted within its cockpit, I struggle to discern a better daily driver, regardless of its slightly scary price tag (well over £22,000 as tested).
