Announced – Ford Fiesta Red and Black Editions

Ford has launched two new Fiesta models called the Fiesta Red Edition and the Fiesta Black Edition. The mechanically identical cars are nearly as quick as the fast Fiesta ST, but are a lot cheaper to run and more comfortable.

Central to the appeal of the new Fords is their 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that produces a healthy 138bhp and gets the cars from 0-62mph in just 9.0 seconds on the way to a top speed of 125mph. Those figures mean the new models are fun to drive, but also quiet and comfortable at motorway speeds.

Potential customers will also be pleased to learn that the Red and Black Editions deliver excellent economy of 63mpg and emissions of just 104g/km for annual road tax of £20.

They get suspension that has been slightly lowered (not as much as in the Ford Fiesta ST) to cut out body lean, without harming comfort to the extent of our Hot Hatchback of the Year.

As with the ST, the Black and Red Editions get sporty styling – the former has a black finish with contrasting red paint on the roof, wing mirrors and grille, while the latter reverses the look with a red finish and black highlights. Both models get unique 16-inch alloy wheels, while inside there are sporty metal pedals, a red interior, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with red stitching.

Add all these ingredients together and the new models get close to matching the eye-catching looks of the ST, are nearly as much fun to drive, but cost significantly less to run. The Red and Black Editions' insurance group will not be confirmed until 10 July, but they will be cheaper to insure than the ST. The new cars’ £16,000 list prices – roughly £1,000 less than the Fiesta ST’s – are sure to appeal to anyone looking for ST performance on a budget.

For reviews of the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Fiesta ST hot hatchback, visit the Carbuyer Ford reviews page.