Ford Fiesta Zetec
“The Ford Fiesta Zetec is reasonably priced and gets alloy wheels and chrome exterior trim that make it stand out from the basic model.”
We’re big fans of the basic Ford Fiesta thanks to its great looks, decent levels of equipment and excellent driving characteristics – which mean it is lots of fun to drive.
In many ways, opting for the Ford Fiesta Zetec model simply refines all of these qualities. It looks smarter and more upmarket, thanks to its alloy wheels and splashes of chrome, rather than the plastic wheel trims and dark exterior plastics you’ll get on the basic model.
The interior looks nicer, too – metal-finish grab handles for the doors replace the basic model’s plastic items, and the Zetec also gets attractive ambient lighting and a restyled central console. Ford Fiesta Zetec buyers can choose between cheap petrols or slightly more expensive – but very economical – diesels. The 1.0-litre petrol EcoBoost manages to be both spritely, as well as frugal, and the engine’s perky nature matches the fun-driving experience of the Fiesta.
Good points
The Ford Fiesta Zetec is a great choice because it builds on the Fiesta’s natural strengths. Opting for Zetec spec means you get 15-inch alloy wheels, front foglights, and chrome trim on the outside – all of which work together to give the Zetec a more premium look than the entry-level Ford Fiesta Style.The same is also true inside, where Zetec spec means you get a leather-trimmed steering wheel and handbrake, plus the company’s classier ‘flow through’ centre console, and attractive ambient interior lighting. Zetec cars now also come with Ford SYNC, which connects your mobile phone to the car's infotainment system via Bluetooth. Zetec models also get Ford’s handy Quickclear heated windscreen – which can shift even ice in seconds – and a trip computer.
Bad points
In the past, we criticised the Fiesta Zetec for lacking side curtain airbags and a deactivation switch for the front-passenger airbag, but both are now fitted to the new model. All Fiestas also come with MyKey, which allows the owner to limit the speed of the car when it’s started using a pre-programmed key.The Fiesta’s boot could also be bigger and its price is slightly high compared to some rivals.
What you get
- Alloy wheels
- Folding rear seats
- Passenger & Driver airbag
- Front side airbags
- Front fog lights
- Manual air conditioning
- Leather steering wheel
- Height adjustable driver's seat
- Single CD player
- AUX stereo input
- Bluetooth
Recommended optional extras
- Active city stop
- Deflation detection system
Our choice
The 99bhp EcoBoost petrol may cost around £1,000 more than the basic engine, but it is more economical, quicker, free from paying road tax, and worth the extra for if you can afford it.
