Ford has taken the wraps off the new two-tone Fiesta Red Edition and Fiesta Black Edition models boasting fierce looks, a more powerful version of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, as well impressive fuel efficiency.

The most powerful 1-litre volume production cars

The Ford Fiesta Red and Black Editions are equipped with the new 103 kW 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine connected to a five-speed manual gearbox, and features a unique calibration with new settings for turbocharger boost control, valve-timings, intercooler and throttle management.

These settings help the engine deliver 12% more power and offer an even sportier driving experience with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h, while still delivering 4.5 litres/100 km fuel efficiency and 104 g/km CO2 emissions.

Distinctive design

“Both cars have an execution that’s bold, distinctive and contemporary, but the Red and Black present subtly different personalities that will appeal to different customers,” explains John Mcleod, Vehicle Personalisation chief designer for Ford Europe.

“For me, the more provocative car is the Black Edition; the red detailing and especially the grille surround deliver a high contrast for drivers that want to be noticed. The Red Edition car is highly expressive yet a little bit more subtle for the less exuberant owner.”

Finished in Race Red or Panther Black, the models can be easily distinguished from the standard versions by their three- door guise, sporty front and rear bumpers, roof mounted spoiler, 16-inch Panther Black alloy wheels or optional 17-inch ones, as well as the front upper and lower grille surrounds. Inside you find the glossy black centre stack and door handles, contrasting red stitching, and a black leather wrapped gear shift lever and steering wheel.

Already available on order, the Ford Fiesta Red and Black Editions extend the range of high specification Fiesta cars that so far this year have accounted for almost half of Fiestas sold, and will go on sale later in 2014.

South African launch dates and availability is yet to be confirmed.