Spy photographers caught a test mule of the next-generation Ford Fiesta undergoing cold weather testing in Scandinavia. With the new platform hidden under the current Fiesta body, this mule isn’t much to look at, but the new Fiesta will share its mechanicals with the new Mazda2, and Ford’s Ka city car and its Fiat 500 twin.

While there are no styling cues for the next-gen model on this mule, expect the new Ford Fiesta to feature Ford’s global “kinetic” design language, also seen on the Ford Mondeo.

As Ford’s second best selling car, don’t expect the automaker to mess with the Fiesta’s success. Size will up slightly, but nothing major. The Fiesta will be powered by a full range of gas and diesel engines. The four-cylinder gas engines will be available in 1.3L, 1.6L or 1.8L versions and will all feature direct-injection for cleaner emissions. Oil-burners will be either 1.4L and 1.6L Duratorq engines from Ford’s collaboration with Peugeot-Citroen. Ford will likely build on the success of its Focus ST, with a hotter Fiesta model that is expected to be powered by a 1.6L turbo with 170-hp.

The Fiesta will feature technology trickling down from higher end models, with stability control, Bluetooth and a full airbag package. The Fiesta will debut early next year, with sales starting in summer 2008.

## Source: Car ##

Posted in: Ford, Spy Shots, Europe, Hatchbacks
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