First three-cylinder Ford Performance model also features Drive Modes adjusting engine, steering, stability controls and even exhaust sound for optimised driving fun

Ford Performance reveals the next-generation Ford Fiesta ST at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. This being the third generation, the Fiesta ST will be the first Ford Performance model ever powered by a three-cylinder engine, and will be the first Fiesta ST to feature selectable Drive Modes, enabling engine, steering and stability controls to be configured to Normal, Sport and Track settings for an optimised fun-to-drive experience in conditions from motorways to track days.

Part of Ford’s EcoBoost range of petrol engines that also includes the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost, the all-new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine uses technology including turbocharging, high-pressure fuel injection and Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing to deliver optimised performance and fuel efficiency.

The engine’s three-cylinder architecture delivers high torque at low rpm. Performance is further boosted by a new turbocharger that uses an optimised turbine design to build boost pressure faster and minimise lag for a more responsive and fun driving experience.

Ford’s new cylinder deactivation technology — first announced for the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and a world first for a three-cylinder engine — will further improve fuel efficiency by automatically stopping fuel delivery and valve operation for one of the engine’s cylinders in conditions where full capacity is not needed, such as when coasting or cruising with light demand on the engine. The technology can disengage or re-engage one cylinder in 14 milliseconds — 20 times faster than the blink of an eye — to seamlessly deliver full performance on demand.

Selectable Drive Modes add even more versatility for the next generation Fiesta ST, enabling drivers to optimise the driving experience to suit scenarios from school run to the race track. In Normal mode, engine mapping, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), ESE, exhaust sound and electronic power assisted steering (EPAS) are configured to deliver natural responsiveness. In Sport mode, engine mapping and throttle pedal response are sharpened, and EPAS settings adjusted to deliver more feedback and finer control for fast road driving.

The active noise control valve opens and ESE is adjusted to intensify the sporty exhaust note and engine noise within the cabin. In Track mode, all vehicle dynamics features are tuned for the fastest possible lap times, traction control is disabled and ESC interventions are set to wide-slip mode for hard circuit driving.

The agile and responsive Ford Performance-tuned chassis will be supported by enhanced Torque Vectoring Control technology that improves road holding and reduces understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering. Three-mode ESC will enable drivers to choose between full system intervention; wide-slip mode with limited intervention and full system de-activation.

More personalisation options than before will be made available too. Customers will be able to choose from a range of trim elements for the gear lever, steering wheel, door pulls and decorative dashboard spear, and select from distinctive styling packs.

The standard Fiesta ST interior will feature supportive Recaro seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. Exterior colour options will include new Performance Blue and the Fiesta ST will feature exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.

The Ford Fiesta ST will be available from early 2018 onwards, in both three and five-door body styles.