All-new Ford Fiesta proves small is beautiful

Analysts predict major growth for the GCC's small car segment, and the German-made Fiesta - a genuine heavyweight among small-size contenders - already has the local competition quaking in its boots.

Jim Benintende, managing director of Ford Middle East, said: "The all-new Fiesta is a key player in Ford's product-led transformation and will soon join in the region fellow European models like the Focus and Mondeo, which have made a tremendous impact here.

"The Fiesta is synonymous with small car excellence in Europe and we are confident that the car will soon become a byword for the segment in the GCC thanks to its outstanding safety features, driving dynamics and impressive interior package."

Benintende added: "Though the car has undergone extensive testing in the region and market research, this is the first opportunity Middle East customers have had to see - and feel - the all-new Fiesta for themselves. The response has been hugely encouraging."

Ford's commitment to providing first-class safety features as standard is not compromised on the Fiesta. The all-new model combines Ford's pioneering Intelligent Protection System - which manages airbag deployment according to the nature and severity of a collision - side impact protection, ABS brakes and a significantly stiffer body.

Ride quality has been further improved thanks to a wider rear suspension, giving the Fiesta the widest track in its class, while a pokey 16-valve, 1.4-litre Duratec engine ensures plenty of punch to negotiate the toughest of driving conditions. With a luggage capacity of 284 litres the Fiesta is as roomy on the inside as it is compact on the outside, and the car's futuristic styling will impress even the most discerning of aesthetes.

"The driving dynamics of the Fiesta were based on the Ford Focus, not a comparable small-size car - and that's what makes the Fiesta so strong a package," added Jim Benintende. "Many design techniques of the Focus - the world's best selling car - have been used on the Fiesta, such as friction reduction for more precise steering."