Ford Fiesta Discontinued

Over a century ago Ford got the world moving with its mass-produced Model T and, over the decades since, has maintained a knack for creating cars in tune with the motoring zeitgeist. Here in the UK names like Anglia, Cortina, Escort and Sierra all carry huge cultural significance for those who grew up with them, ‘Mondeo Man’ even becoming a political figure of sorts not so long ago.
And for nearly 50 years the Fiesta has been a huge part of that story, given its long-standing success as a British best-seller. But it seems this chapter is also coming to a close, as Ford gears up for the next automotive age and switch from internal combustion engines to electric power. Sadly, it seems, there is no longer a place for the Fiesta in that world. While news of the Fiesta’s demise is being widely reported all Ford will say for now is, “We are accelerating our efforts to go all-in on electrification and therefore review our vehicle portfolio in line with our business strategy.” The statement continues, “We do not comment on speculation and will share more information in the coming months.”

This may not sound like much of a tribute for a car that generations of British drivers will remember with real affection. From learner drivers and boy racers to mums and grandparents, Fiestas have been a favourite of British drivers since the first one launched in 1976 as Ford’s first modern, front-wheel drive hatchback. Under the banner “Ford’s new baby”, adverts boasted “Never has so much advanced engineering gone into a small car” while celebrating features like fuel consumption of over 40mpg, the safety benefits of the all-round visibility and simplified electrical systems and mechanical components to keep running costs down. Since then, the Fiesta has spawned first cars, hot hatches and even luxury models in the Ghias of a previous era and modern Vignale version we enjoyed on long-term test just recently. Over that time a reputation for sharp handling, reliability and low running costs have cemented its position as a motoring institution.

But fashions change and keeping small cars affordable as we switch from internal combustion power to hybrids and full electric is a challenge even big players like Ford are finding tough. Arch-rival Vauxhall has arguably seized the initiative with an all-electric version of the Corsa but, great as it is, it looks expensive for a small car and is, fundamentally, an adaptation of an existing model rather than a clean-sheet design. As mainstream tastes switch to more crossover-style vehicles like the Puma (the car you voted ’most loved’ in the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards) and Ford introduces all-electric models like the Mustang Mach-e the business model for the classic supermini has become harder and harder to make.
By drawing a line under the Fiesta and starting afresh with a brand-new product range Ford is clearly keen to reclaim the initiative. What will that look like? We’ll have to wait and see but, for now, it’s farewell Fiesta and thanks for all the good times!