Ford Fiesta 1.5 Sport Powershift Review

Dual clutch setup is a big change from the usual torque converter-based automatics, and the DCT somewhat struggles in low speeds. Still, the Fiesta offers a host of amenities that you don’t get with your usual hatchback.

We recently had the chance to review the Ford Fiesta S, which is fairly new in the market. Being used to compact sedans most of my life as a motorist, a hot hatch is a welcome change, although the mix of Euro and American features take some getting used to.

Design and First Impressions

When I picked up the review unit from Mazda’s showroom at BGC, my first impression was that of awe at its manoeuvrability. The size does need getting used to, however, especially if you’re more accustomed to larger cars. The design seems to focus on visibility, though. The front windshield, side windows and A-pillars all let you have an excellent view of the road — great for safety.

Not that many units are out yet, and so the car got quite a number of looks, especially with its bold orange color. In my opinion, the hatchback variant is much more pleasing to the eye compared to the sedan version. The sedan’s rear-end seems like an afterthought, in comparison with the hatch.

The Fiesta model we reviewed is actually the sixth generation, although it is the first release here in the Philippines. We might be familiar with the platform, however, as the Kia Pride or Mazda 121 actually share the global platform as that of the Fiesta, although these relate to older generations. Also, recall that Ford had a big marketing campaign in the US in 2009 called the Fiesta Movement, during which Euro-spec models were distributed to participant so American audiences can have a first-hand experience.

Performance and Driveability

The salient feature of the Ford Fiesta is its dual-clutch transmission (DCT) on the automatic variants, which is a far different design from the torque converter-based automatics we are used to. Branded as “Powershift” by Ford, the six-speed DCT, by definition, uses a friction-based clutch , much like most other manual trannies out there. This is not like the usual fluid-driven torque converter, which has some fuel efficiency and power transfer disadvantages.

The big difference is that transfer of power is actuated by two clutches instead of one, making shifting more efficient. Engaging the sequential gears is almost instantaneous, since there is a separate set of clutches for the odd and even gears. Of course, it helps that it’s an automatic, which is a convenient way to reduce driver stress whilst traversing Metro Manila traffic.

There lies one disadvantage, however. The DCT does hesitate a bit when in crawling speeds — as if it cannot decide whether to downshift or upshift (between first and second gears), or to simply stay in gear. I have experienced a few jolts here and there because of this driving characteristic peculiar to DCTs at this price level.

It’s a good thing that it’s an automatically-actuated clutch. This means no stalling nor grinding, even if you hesitate between shifts, unlike with manuals where inexperienced drivers can easily get confused at primera.

That said, the DCT does its job, and it is, indeed a good performer, compared to so-called slushboxes. Power transfer is noticeably better, even at low speeds, and there is no shift shock, as the automatic clutch seems to do its job well. Hopefully, the DCT will translates to better fuel efficiency in the long run, particularly compared with a torque converter. So far, the FC calculator gives us a reading of 12 to 14 Km/L on mixed highway and city driving.

Comfort and Amenities

With a growing family, I initially didn’t expect the Fiesta to satisfy my needs in ferrying two kids to school (and a toddler to boot). A couple of elementary school-sized stroller bags plus lunch boxes do fit well inside the Fiesta’s trunk.

I do doubt if such a car would still fit our family of five once the kids are growing up already, however. Still, I doubt that my particular market segment is the target for this car model.

That said, the Fiesta does have some interesting features geared toward safety, usability and accessibility — great for folks with kids like myself.

• First, the door lock toggle is actually located on the dashboard, below the entertainment system. This can be particularly useful when you need to temporarily leave the car to do errands. Your passenger (adult or child) can easily centrally lock or unlock the doors just by pressing the toggle switch.
• The car supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity for interfacing your smartphone with the audio system. Ford’s own entertainment system does have its own user interface that takes over your iPhone, for instance. You can dial straight from the car’s own keypad interface, which is great.
• The hatch is opened electronically — it opens with the touch of a button, which adds to the convenience of operating it.
• Light controls and feedback are a bit different from your usual Japanese car, which might take some getting used to. For instance, there is the softer sound that emits from the turn/hazard signals. Again, this reminds you that the Fiesta is from an American brand, and it was primarily designed with European markets in mind.

Verdict

The Ford Fiesta is a subcompact hatch, and it might take some getting used to, especially for drivers and passengers used to bigger cars. However, it does have character, and you get more amenities than you would get from the usual popular subcompact sedans.

I would rate it at 8.5 out of 10, with points taken only from the DCT sluggishness during some scenarios. Overall, however, this is a good buy particularly for single people, newly married couples or small families. Growing families, of course, will definitely need something with more space.

Pros:

• DCT should be more fuel efficient and well-performing, compared to a traditional AT
• Bold styling and design
• Small and manoeuvrable; the side mirror even has visual cues/lines that help indicate distance.

Cons:

• DCT hesitates at very slow speeds, such as during stop-and-go/crawling traffic.