Ford latest Euro-spec Fiesta ECOnetic could be the biggest tell-tale reason why the Blue Oval’s lineup continues to do well in Europe but struggles in the U.S. Although we’ll be getting a version of the Fiesta in late 2009, Europe will soon get a super economic version of the hatch that will be able to achieve an astonishing 67 mpg!
Set to debut at this month’s British Motor Show, the Fiesta ECOnetic will use a 1.6L TDCi turbodiesel, rated at 89 horsepower. Power will be sent to the car’s front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, although gearing has been altered to reach maximum efficiency.
But the Fiesta’s powertrain is only part of the fuel-saving equation. The ECOnetic version will sport a more aerodynamic front fascia, side skirts, a rear spoiler, a lowered suspension and low roll-resistant tires. Ford engineers also went as far as to co-develop a low-viscosity gearbox oil with BP.
Weight saving was also a major focus on the ECOnetic project, but the Fiesta still features modern amenities such as power windows, side curtain airbags and air conditioning, according to AutoExpress.co.uk.
Ford has yet to release pricing on the Fiesta ECOnetic, but the three-door will likely list from £11,500, with the five-door fetching an additional £500. European sales are expected to begin later this year, with no plans to bring the car to the U.S. market.
