Ford has released specification and pricing details of itsall-new Fiesta ahead of the compact hatchback range'slocal launch this week. As a major competitor to the top-selling Volkswagen Polo, much is expected of Ford's new B-segment offering.

Ford admits that the new Fiesta is an evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, product; the Blue Oval claims that changes were made purely to improve what was already a good product in the eyes of its customers. The new versionhas grown somewhat compared with its predecessor (it is 71 mm longer and 13 mm wider), but whereas the front track hasincreased by 30 mm and the rear by 10 mm, the wheelbase is just 4 mm longer than before. Rear passengers are afforded 16 mm more knee room.

The new Fiesta weighs in at between 1 165 kg and 1 206 kg, depending on the derivative and type of transmission specified. Luggage space is a claimed 303 litres and, when the rear seats are folded down, 984 litres of utility space is available.

The interior has been updated with new, softer-touch materials and improved build quality, withtighter panel gaps. The Trend derivativesfeature a 6.5-inch infotainment system (with Sync3), whilethe Titanium versions are equipped withan 8-inch touchscreen setup, whichincludes Sync3 and navigation. The button count on the new Fiesta has more than halved thanks to the touchscreen system and helps produce a cleaner looking fascia. Both spec levels support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A pair of USB ports are availed up front and whereas a 6-speaker sound system isstandard on the Trend, the Titanium features a 7-speaker premium audio setup.

The new model is based on the same platform as before, but Ford's engineers worked extensively to better insulate the newcomer's cabin from engine noise and vibrations. The firm has furtherstiffened up the Fiesta's body structure to improve on-road comfort, as well asthe overall driving experience.

Safety has been upped for the new model with a minimum of 4 airbags as standard. It also comes equipped with ABS with EBA and EBD, hill-start assist and electronic stability. Reverse parking sensors are now standard across the model lineup.

Compared with the specification of Trend derivatives,Titanium versions come equipped with electronic climate control (instead of manual airconditioning), a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, heated sports seats, rain-sensing wipers and LED daytime running lights.

Engine range

The 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine has been retained for the new Fiesta range. Both Trend and Titanium models offer 6-speed manual and auto options. Manual Trend and automatic Trend and Titanium derivatives produce 74 kW and 170 Nm of torque, but the manual Titanium derivative's power is increased to 92 kW (although peak torque is unchanged at 170 Nm). The turbodiesel1.5-litre Fiesta is only available as a manual and delivers 63 kW and 175 Nm of torque.

Claimed fuel economy for1.0 derivatives in manual guise is 4.3 L/100 km, with the autos said to consume an average of 5.2 L/100 km. The diesel sips just 3.3 L/100 km with its manual 'box.

All new Fiesta derivatives come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, 3-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A 4-year/60 000 km service plan is included, with service intervals at 15000 km.

Pricing (as of May 2018)

1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6MT R261 900

1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6AT R277 300

1.5 TDCi Trend 6MT R292 500

1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6MT R295 900

1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT R310 600

Related content:

Ford Fiesta (2018) Launch Review

Ford Fiesta (2018) International Launch Review

Ford Fiesta ST (2018) International Launch Drive [w/Video]

Most Fuel Efficient Budget Cars in SA

Top 5 Cool Facts: Next Ford Fiesta (2017)

Video Comparison: 2018 Volkswagen Polo & 2017 Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TFSI Comfortline (2018) Quick Review

Want to buy a Ford Fiesta?

Find a new or used Ford Fiesta on Cars.co.za