The colorful Ford Fiesta is refreshed for 2014 outside and in, enhancing what is already an amazing small-car package. Updates are subtle enough to miss outside, but really to bring the 2014 Fiesta a bit of the ST model’s coolness – without the price jump that comes with the sportiest Fiesta model.

The EcoBoost 1.0-liter bumps max fuel economy from 39 MPG up to a whopping 45 MPG with the SFE package.

But is it a hilarious riot to drive, as promised by its long-time best-seller status in the UK, home of TopGear and all things cars?

We did not have a chance to verify that today, but the 123-horsepower turbo triple is a must-have upgrade for its low-rev torque peak versus the standard 1.6-liter engine.

Why? Many think this Engine of the Year-winner is actually pushing out closer to 150 horsepower, but is down-rated to protect the atmospheric four-cylinder engines’ honor…?

This Fiesta SE is priced at $16,010.

Cruise over to Ford.com for all the pricing, which started at about $13,500 for me, thanks to $1000 off for signing up for — but not actually attending… — an EcoBoost Challenge event. I got the dates wrong.

[Sorry, @CarolinaFordDealers !! I tried!  Was at Zmax dragstrip in Charlotte a day early, confused about where everyone was… =]

Next day, flat tire and bent (POS) wheel drama kept me busy. “Is the car riding rough>? Oh, the tire is totally flat…”

Regardless, with or without that EcoBoost Challenge discount, the Fiesta is excellent value. Even more so with the optional EcoBoost triple and 2014’s updated style and tech.

 

http://www.ford.com/cars/fiesta/pricing/

 

Official Details below from Ford.

Ford’s new Fiesta redefines the small car with a projected 40 mpg-plus fuel economy rating with the available 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine, an exciting new look, and special features and technology that make it the most fun-to-drive car of its size.

New Ford Fiesta bursts onto the scene with an impressive lineup of powertrain options anchored by the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine that delivers a thrill-packed ride with 40 mpg-plus

Fiesta is loaded with a dazzling array of features and technologies that prove small is smart

Personalization features and hot new color combinations make the 2014 Ford Fiesta – hitting dealerships soon – a car that not only revels in the spotlight, but demands it

Fiesta ST smokes the competition with the best performance in its class

 

Fuel efficiency and fun

The most dramatic and distinctive Fiesta to date will deliver impressive fuel efficiency, led by Ford’s patented new 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine. This landmark engine, already selected for both the Popular Mechanics 2012 Breakthrough Award and Engine Technology International’s International Engine of the Year award in Europe, is expected to deliver more than 40 mpg.

Fiesta will stand as a shining example of Ford’s commitment to provide customers with the most fuel-efficient cars, SUVs and trucks.

While the diminutive size of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost saves cash at the pump, it doesn’t hold anything back on the road. At 123 horsepower for each liter of engine displacement (the engine’s size), the 1.0-liter EcoBoost delivers more power for its size than a Lamborghini Aventador (at 108 horsepower per liter).

EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford’s strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines. Ford’s leadership with EcoBoost has resulted in more than 125 patents on the technology.

Small is smart

In addition to its new EcoBoost engine, Fiesta boasts a best-in-class suite of technologies and features that give drivers the perfect blend of a connected world and an untethered driving experience.

A new MyFord Touch® system with 6.5-inch touch screen that features enhanced voice control is now available, providing drivers more options than ever for navigation, communication and entertainment functions. Fiesta still features SYNC® AppLink™ capabilities pioneered on the first Fiesta, which allows drivers to access and control Ford-approved smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls while on the go, helping them keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Turn-by-turn navigation remains part of SYNC Services.

Ford’s MyKey® is a new feature on Fiesta, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenagers’ exposure to risk at the wheel. The system allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

Built to excite the right-brain driver

Proving to be every bit as creative as its owner, the new Fiesta will offer custom exterior design graphics and sexy new color options. The redesigned exterior boasts a sporty new grille that reflects the new face of Ford.

Inside, things are just as expressive. The cell phone-inspired dashboard and available leather steering wheel and seats amplify the modern interior and entice drivers to get in the car and get on the move. A selection of ambient lighting options allows Fiesta drivers to set just the mood they want. Also available is a new Sony® HD audio/satellite radio with eight premium speakers for drivers to more fully appreciate their music.

Big on safety

Fiesta is a small car that is big on safety. It offers the following standard safety features:

• AdvanceTrac® with electronic stability control

  Dual-stage first-row airbags

  Driver knee airbag

  Side-impact airbags

  Side-curtain airbags

  Four-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System

  LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)

  Tire Pressure Monitoring System

  Child-safety rear locks

  Anti-theft engine immobilizer

  Improved side-impact safety capabilities

 

http://www.ford.com/cars/fiesta/pricing/