Ford setup a very small test track at the Wheels, Wings and Rotors show yesterday at Los Alamitos Army Airfield. Demo drives in the new Ford Fiesta were offered. These were European models, not exactly what we will get, but the manual transmission ones they told me are very close, with the 1600cc engine. The automatic was a 1400cc, but im not interested in a slushbox, so I didnt try that one out. Ecoboost turbo direct injection may be an option according to the Ford employees doing the show.

Because of the small space and tight turns, I never got it out of first gear, but nonetheless I was impressed. It blows away the Aveo, Yaris, Versa, and is even or better than the Fit, which are its most direct competition. Most everyone who drove it wanted one NOW, not next summer, when it is supposed to be available. If the Hecho en Mexico quality is good, Ford has a winner for an entry-level car. The demo cars were assembled in the Czech Republic and had EPA exemption stickers under the hood, along with Michigan manufacturer plates.

 

They are a very good car - will outhandle everything up to a BMW. Looks good too (when its a hatch, the sedan looks ... ugh)