New Ford Fiesta Trend trim level launched

The Ford Fiesta now has a new entry-level trim level called Trend. The new Trend spec replaces both the Zetec and the basic Style model to become the first step on the Fiesta ladder, but the equipment that comes with it means it doesn’t feel too basic. It’s available to buy now, with prices starting from £15,995 for a three-door model.

All Fiestas now feature an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Zetec (and ST-Line) used to have a smaller 6.5-inch screen with a chunky plastic surround, while the discontinued Style trim made do with a tiny screen that didn’t offer touchscreen functionality.

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The infotainment system on the Trend model includes DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic emergency assistance in the event of an accident, and two USB sockets.

Other standard equipment on the Trend, which is likely to become the best-selling Fiesta, includes a Quickclear heated front windscreen, air conditioning, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, a tyre pressure monitoring system and the NCAP safety pack. The Ford Fiesta has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, partly due to the driver assistance tech on board, and all Fiestas now offer lane-keeping assistance, automatic headlights, a speed limiter, hill-start assistance and a rear seatbelt warning.

As the Fiesta is often bought as a first car, it’s reassuring to see that Ford has fitted its MyKey system to the entry-level model. Driver profiles can be set up on each of the two keys, and you can choose to limit the audio volume, top speed and other factors to keep young drivers safe.

The Trend spec has brought a selection of styling changes too. There are new alloy wheels (a size larger than on the Zetec), a redesigned grille and privacy glass as standard, while seven paint choices - six metallic and a solid red colour - are included in the car’s price.

Optional equipment includes a space-saver spare wheel instead of a tyre repair kit, the City Pack (rear parking sensors and heated, folding mirrors), the Comfort Pack (heated front seats and steering wheel) and a SYNC 3 infotainment system with navigation and FordPass Connect, which brings a range of online features. Choosing a five-door model increases the price slightly.

It’s a shame that only the base 1.1-litre engine is available, as the peppier 99bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine was offered for the old Zetec model. The 1.1-litre engine produces 84bhp and manages acceleration from 0-62mph in a leisurely 13.8 seconds. Fuel economy is impressive at 48.7mpg, until you realise that the more powerful 1.0-litre turbo returns 50.4mpg and can do 0-62mph in 10.6 seconds.

See why the Ford Fiesta is top of our list of Britain’s best cars.