With the release of the  new 2011 Ford Fiesta expectations of small car buyers have been exceeded. Its vibrant design, luxurious interior, and economic sensibility has surely raised the bar for the small car consumer market.
The Fiesta, which comes in a four door and five door models, stays true to its heritage with its Euro-centric kinetic design while eliciting emotion from the driver.

The diagonal flowing headlamps are meant to convey forward movement, giving the driver a sense of dynamism and ambition. Aerodynamic tuning includes a standard rear spoiler for the five-door version and an available spoiler for the four door. Both come with a front chin spoiler that have lower air deflectors to send air underneath and around the vehicle to reduce drag. It also boasts body mounted side view mirrors, which also lower drag and minimize wind noise. Anyone who test drives this vehicle will be pleasantly surprised to discover how quiet it is.            

In an effort to make a more practical and eco-friendly vehicle, Ford is introducing a line of smaller, more fuel efficient engines. The new Fiesta features a 1.6-liter Duratec Ti-VCT I-4 engine that delivers 120 horsepower and has earned it a certified  Environmental Protection Agency rating of 40 mpg. Such fuel efficiency is  better than that of the Honda Fit, the Toyota Yaris, and most hybrids. To add to its already impressive resume, the 2011 Fiesta features a six speed automatic transmission known as PowerShift, which has the convenience of an automatic with the fuel saving  benefits. Speed sensitive Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS)also helps conserve energy.             

With driver’s side knee airbags, first row airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags, it is clear that the designers of the 2011 Fiesta had safety in mind. Class exclusive features include Pull-Drift Compensation, which ensures that the vehicle stays on course despite heavy wind gusts and road conditions, and Active Nimble Cancellation, which checks tire balance. Both are enabled by EPAS.  Drivers with children will be happy to know that rear door child safety locks come standard. To add to it’s masculine image, the Fiesta is made from high strength steel, rather than fiberglass.  
      
The inside of the new Fiesta is just as impressive as the exterior. The instrument panel centerstack, which is the key focus of the interior, is designed to be convenient and easy to use. First row bucket seats and a 60/40 split second row seat make for optimal comfort. Heated, leather- trimmed seats are also available. Rich hues of black, plum, and cashmere give the interior a luxurious look.           

Ford’s advertising caimpaign dubbed “Inspired by Color” is meant to make buyers aware of the wide array of color choices offered for the 2011 Fiesta. In addition to  Lime Squeeze metallic, Bright Magenta, Blue Flame metallic, Monterey Gray metallic, Tuxedo Black metallic, Ingot Silver metallic and Oxford White, premium paint options of Yellow Blaze metallic tri-coat and Red Candy metallic tinted clearcoat are also available. With the sedan starting at $13,995, the new Ford Fiesta makes an expressive yet  sensible choice for the new driver in your household, but be warned: once you drive it, you may want to keep it for yourself.