Green Fiesta to arrive in final quarter

FORD Australia has confirmed it will introduce the ECOnetic Ford Fiesta in the last quarter of this year.

The green diesel hatch is expected to be the most frugal car available in Australia with an average fuel economy figure of 3.7 litres per 100km and a carbon emission rating of 98g/km, undercutting the just-introduced Mini D (3.9L/100km) and upcoming Toyota Prius (3.9L/100km on European test standard).

The ECOnetic Fiesta is not a hybrid, but uses idle-stop technology to conserve fuel, has low rolling resistance tyres, aerodynamic enhancements and unique gear ratios.

Ford Australia president Marin Burela said the ECOnetic Fiesta would be popular because it was “sexy”, met the lifestyle needs of young customers, had green credibility and would not cost much to run.

He would not discuss the planned price of the special Fiesta, saying it was yet to be decided, but admitted its green technology would demand a premium.

“What we need to do is make sure that it’s suitably priced so there is value for money,” he said.

“We need to make sure we bring in the technology with it so we don’t disappoint, and we need to make sure it is within the reach of people out there looking for that type of product.”

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