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Reader’s ride: 2013 Ford Fiesta ST

If the Fiesta can be likened to a hot tamale, then the ST is the fiery habanero local hot hatch fans have been searching for. In May 2013, Wheels24's SERGIO DAVIDS tested Ford's latest hot hatch at the Red Star Raceway n Johannesburg.

Wheels24 reader EGOR OUSSOV traded his well-loved Fiesta for its race-bred ST sibling. Read what he has to say about the 2013 Ford ST:

“I can say proudly that I am a petrol head and love cars and motorbikes for their beauty, ingenuity, speed and synergy of parts. As a result I am a regular contributor of articles to Wheels24.

Image gallery!

I purchased a two-door Ford Fiesta Titanium 1.6. I loved and enjoyed it for almost five years, but I couldn’t stop researching on when the ST version would arrive in SA, as it would be better in every aspect than my existing vehicle.

UNDER THE BONNET

Does my Fiesta ST feel the same as the Titanium? Not really. It feels like its bigger brother. The car has grown up from a naughty teenager to a true athlete.

The model produces 134kW/240Nm which boosts both aspects by around 50% compared to the previous car which was already quite sporty. Additionally it has over-boost function for 15 seconds under full acceleration which increases power to 148kw/290Nm, which puts an even bigger smile on your face over previous 1.6 versions.

The weight has remained nearly unchanged at 1100kgs.

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The ST feels like a seriously focused car and appeals on various levels for people who love driving. The ride is firm especially at lower speeds though at high speeds it’s almost unnoticeable. When you hit corners all will be forgiven due to the amount of precision and grip the car has to offer.

To date I kept my car below 3500 rpm, I’ll change the oil at around 8000km and then open its lungs.

Even when I’m not keeping the pedal to the metal, it feels like fire breathing dragon and wants to keep on going forward with a great note from the engine through its fancy sound box.

To all “Topgearers” at heart: Test drive this car if you’re in the market for something special and exciting. The Fiesta ST will become an automotive hot hatch classic due its purity and its ignorance of evil of modern marketing.

‘VALUE FOR MONEY’


Many other cars fall under the excuse of offering Formula 1 technology, option lists over R100 000 and all the other gimmicks, which make us pay more for less.

There is no better value for money in this category of hot hatches, even cars like Suzuki Swift Sport are excellent to drive, but far inferior in terms of performance, features when compared to the Fiesta ST.

The standard features are incredible: keyless entry and start, park distance control, high-end sound system, auto lights and wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, Ford Sync and super supportive Recaro leather seats.

OVERALL

I cannot wipe my grim of every time I drive this car. Does it appeal to most of my senses? It does each time I drive it which makes me realise that I am driving something very special."

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