Even with gas prices hovering between $2 and $3 per gallon, Ford is continuing development on its B-Class entry, the 2018 Ford Fiesta, because it needs a small front-drive car like this to help meet fuel economy standards. The entry-level hatchback will likely return with a full range of offerings from its base 1.6-liter normally aspirated 4-cylinder cylinder up through more performance oriented hot hatch in the form of the Fiesta ST, which is powered by a turbocharged version of the same engine.
The look appears to be an evolution of the current handsome hatch, with sharply defined character lines, a large two-inlet grille and slightly more muscular contours to the body sides. The roof rails beneath the camouflage seem to indicate that perhaps a crossover SUV inspired variant may be in the works to take on the likes of the Mazda CX-3, Chevrolet Trax and Honda HR-V.
Expanding Family
If Ford goes ahead with a crossover version, the Fiesta lineup will be quite wide, with both sedans and 4-door hatchbacks offered. The line will also feature a return of the fuel miser in the SE trim level that uses an EcoBoost 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine equipped with a manual transmission that gets 31 city/43 highway compared to the current base 1.6-liter S model which is rated at 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway. Ford also could increase its stake in the hot hatch segment with the all-wheel drive Fiesta RS.
The 2018 Ford Fiesta could bow as early as the North American International Auto Show next January will base prices staring around $20,000.
