Ford Fiesta gets mild-hybrid tech 08 | 06 | 2020

    BRITAIN’S EVER-YOUNG Ford Fiesta can now be ordered with a new 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrain for the first time. Ford says the MHEV system will deliver efficiency gains of up to 5%. Prices start from £19,860 for the lesser powered variant in Ford’s mid-range Titanium trim-level. (Related: Ford's new limited edition Ranger Thunder)

    Both Ford Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid powertrains — delivering either 122bhp or 153bhp — use a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, the same unit already found across the Fiesta and Puma range. But in the MHEV models, there’s also a small lithium-ion battery pack and a belt-driven integrated starter-generator. This adds an extra 20Nm of torque and helps mitigate turbo lag.

    In addition, it also provides assistance at lower speeds to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel efficiency. Ford claims the 122bhp Ecoboost Hybrid is capable of 109g/km of CO2 and 52.3mpg on the WLTP test cycle, an improvement of around 5% compared with the non-hybrid engine. The 153bhp variant costs from £20,180 and has a claimed WLTP fuel economy figure of 55.4mpg. (Related: 'Backbone of Britain' party put on hold)

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    It’s worth highlighting that the new MHEV units are also around 15% more fuel efficient than the Fiesta’s outgoing 99bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. This is achieved because both units feature cylinder deactivation, which allows the shut down one of the engine’s three-cylinders. (Related: Butcher eyes BTCC titles in Ford Focus)

    All versions of the 2020 Fiesta have also received a number of technology upgrades. Included in the improvements are an adaptive cruise control system, traffic sign recognition, active braking for the Cross Traffic Alert system, new Sport and Trail drive modes for the Fiesta Active, plus a relocated subwoofer for the optional B&O Play sound system to ensure greater luggage space. Buyers opting for the Fiesta Active and ST-Line variants also get a perpendicular park function for the active park assist.

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    On Fiesta models fitted with Ford’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, the system will automatically adjust the Fiesta’s speed according to the speed limit, as well as control the vehicle’s accelerator and brakes in stop-start traffic.

    “Adding EcoBoost Hybrid technology to Fiesta’s best-in-class driving dynamics means customers can have even more power and still go further on a tank of fuel,” Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe, said. “The Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid will help Ford bring the benefits of electrification to more drivers than ever before.”

    Related: Ford Puma scoops What Car? Car of the Year

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    Jim McGill

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