Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Ambiente Review
Ford India has launched the facelifted version of its famous sedan Fiesta in the country's car market. The company has introduced it with three variants, among which Ford Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Ambiente is the base level trim. The company has given quite a few modifications to its exteriors as well as the internal cabin. The exteriors of this 2014 version gets a new chrome treated hexagonal grille, improved bonnet and bumpers. At the same time, the sophisticated internal cabin gets an advanced instrument panel with ice blue illumination, soft touch plastics and contrasting beige fabric for the seats, which gives it an elegant appearance. In terms of engine specifications, it comes with the same refined 1.5-litre diesel power plant that has the ability to churn out 89.7bhp (1bhp extra than its previous motor) along with a peak torque output of 204Nm. It is mated with a proficient five speed manual transmission gear box, which sends the engine power to its front wheels. At present, the manufacturer is selling this sedan is quite a few exterior paint options for the buyers to choose from. The list includes Golden Bronze, Diamond White, Panther Black, Moondust Silver, Smoke Grey and Paprika Red with a metallic finish.
Exteriors:
The company has given it an aerodynamic body structure, which is fitted with quite a few striking aspects. To start with the frontage, it looks more captivating with a new hexagonal radiator grille, which has a lot of chrome treatment. This grille is surrounded with a well designed headlight cluster that is equipped with twin chambered bright reflector lamps and indicator. Just below this grille, there is a revamped bumper that is fitted with an air dam for cooling the diesel mill. The sleek bonnet has a few visible character lines and the large windscreen with a set of intermittent wipers. The neatly carved side profile has body colored door handles and ORVMs, which are electrically adjustable. The pronounced wheel arches are equipped with a robust set of 15 inch steel wheels that are covered with full wheel covers. These steel rims are fitted with 195/60 R15 sized tubeless radial tyres. On the other hand, the rear end is designed with a body colored bumper with a pair of reflectors, an expressive boot lid and a radiant tail light cluster. The rear windshield is integrated with a defogger and a centrally located third high mounted brake light. Apart from these, this sedan also comes fitted with body colored rear appliqué, a roof mounted antenna for better reception of FM radio and B-pillar blackouts as well.
Interiors:
The roomy internal cabin of this Ford Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Ambiente variant comes with a two tone (charcoal black and light earth grey) combination and is complimented by chrome accentuation. It is incorporated with quite a few styling aspects like a metallic painted center console and inside door handles along with chrome finished gear shift knob and park brake release button, which gives it a classy appearance . The well cushioned seats are covered with premium fabric upholstery and provide ample leg space owing to its large wheelbase of 2489mm. The smooth dashboard comes equipped with AC vents, a three spoke power steering wheel and several other utility aspects. Its instrument panel is incorporated with a number of functions like a digital tripmeter, headlamp-on notification and a door ajar warning lamp, a tachometer, low fuel warning light, driver seat belt notification and many other such functions. Apart from these, it also has some utility based features like a large glove box, small tray in center console, front and rear door trims with magazine pockets and cup holders in floor console as well as in rear center arm rest.
Engine and Performance:
This variant is equipped with a 1.5-litre diesel engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 1498cc. It is integrated with four cylinders and eight valves using an SOHC valve configuration. It has the ability to churn out a maximum power output of 89.7bhp at 3750rpm along with a peak torque of 204Nm between 2000 to 2750rpm. This power plant is integrated with a turbo diesel common rail injection based fuel supply system, which delivers a decent fuel economy. It allows this sedan to deliver about 25.01 Kmpl under standard driving conditions. With the help of five speed manual transmission gear box, it can attain a maximum speed of 160 Kmph, which is rather incredible. At the same time, it can cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in close to 12.2 seconds from a standstill.
Braking and Handling:
The front axle is assembled with an independent McPherson strut suspension mechanism along with coil springs and anti roll bars. At the same time, its rear axle has been fitted with a semi-independent twist beam type of mechanism. It is assisted by twin shock absorbers, which are filled with gas and oil. The braking mechanism is further assisted by ABS along with electronic brake force distribution , which prevent the vehicle from skidding in case of sudden brakes are taken. The front wheels are fitted with ventilated disc brakes, while the rear gets self adjusting drum brakes. On the other hand, this sedan is blessed with an electronic power assisted steering system with pull drift compensation technology. This steering wheel comes with tilt adjustable function and supports a minimum turning radius of 5.2 meters.
Comfort Features:
This Ford Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Ambiente variant is bestowed with a number of features, which includes all four power windows with driver side auto down function, adjustable head restraints, follow me home headlamps, 100% foldable rear seats, electric boot release and driver seat with height adjustable function. It also has a HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioner) unit, which helps in keeping the entire cabin cool.
Safety Features:
Being the base variant, it comes with quite a few essential safety features like an engine immobilizer, airbag for driver, child safety lock for rear doors, central locking system, rear defogger and seat belts for all occupants. It also has energy absorbing bumpers, crumple zones and door reinforcement system, which protect the passengers sitting inside in case of any collision. In addition to these, this sedan is equipped with remote programmable key entry with greeting lamp, ABS along with EBD and anti glare inside rear view mirror.
Pros:
1. Modified exterior appearance is an added advantage.
2. Fuel economy is quite impressive.
Cons:
1. Absence of music system is a big minus.
2. High cost of maintenance.
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