The Ford Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost, produced from April 2018 to 2021, represents the performance-oriented variant of the eighth-generation Fiesta (Mk8). Positioned as the flagship model within the Mk8 range, the ST aimed to deliver a compelling hot hatch experience, blending spirited performance with everyday usability. This three-door hatchback quickly gained recognition for its engaging driving dynamics and potent turbocharged engine. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other global markets, with the US market not receiving the Fiesta in this generation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VIII (Mk8) 3 door |
| Type (Engine) | ST 1.5 EcoBoost (200 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 232 km/h (144.16 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 133.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YZJA |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.75 l (5.02 US qt | 4.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1187 kg (2616.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 448 kg (987.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 311 l (10.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1093 l (38.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4068 mm (160.16 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2493 mm (98.15 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 R17; 205/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Fiesta ST is the 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-three cylinder engine, designated with the code YZJA. This engine is a significant departure from the 1.6-liter engine used in the previous generation ST. The YZJA features direct fuel injection, a single scroll turbocharger, and an integrated exhaust manifold designed to improve responsiveness and reduce turbo lag. The engine utilizes a dual-mass flywheel to mitigate vibrations inherent in three-cylinder designs. The engine produces 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 4000 rpm. The engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing driver engagement. The transmission features short shift ratios designed to maximize acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost delivers a noticeably engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration, with the peak torque available from relatively low engine speeds. The short gearing of the six-speed manual transmission keeps the engine in its power band, resulting in brisk performance. While the three-cylinder engine isn’t as smooth as a four-cylinder, Ford engineers implemented technologies like a dual-mass flywheel and active noise cancellation to minimize vibrations and noise. Compared to lower-powered Fiesta variants, the ST offers significantly improved acceleration and handling. The suspension is tuned for a firmer ride, providing better body control during cornering, but at the expense of some ride comfort. The steering is precise and well-weighted, contributing to a confident feel behind the wheel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fiesta ST came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Key features included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alloy wheels, and sports seats. Optional extras included a B&O Play premium sound system, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and a winter pack with heated front seats and windshield. Interior upholstery typically consisted of part-leather sports seats with unique ST badging. The dashboard featured a distinctive ST design with unique trim elements.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta ST features a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. The suspension components are stiffer than those found in standard Fiesta models, and the ride height is lowered to improve handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The ST also benefits from enhanced stability control settings tailored for performance driving. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost was widely praised by automotive critics for its engaging driving dynamics, potent engine, and relatively affordable price. It was often compared favorably to rivals such as the Volkswagen Polo GTI and the Renault Clio RS. The Fiesta ST generally offered a more raw and engaging driving experience than the Polo GTI, while the Clio RS offered a more refined ride. Fuel economy was respectable for a hot hatch, averaging around 39.2 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and cooling system.
Legacy
The Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost has established itself as a popular and highly regarded hot hatch. On the used car market, well-maintained examples command a premium due to their performance and driving appeal. The 1.5 EcoBoost engine has proven to be relatively durable, although regular maintenance is essential. The Fiesta ST’s success cemented Ford’s reputation for producing fun-to-drive, accessible performance cars. It remains a sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts looking for an engaging and rewarding driving experience.
