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 five-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) 5 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 | 5 |
| 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 | 6 kg/Hp, 165.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.1 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 | 1208 kg (2663.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 447 kg (985.47 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 as the YZJA code. This engine is a significant departure from the 1.6-liter engine used in the previous generation Fiesta 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’s architecture is designed for efficiency, incorporating features like variable valve timing and a high compression ratio of 9.7:1. The Fiesta ST exclusively came with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing driver engagement over the convenience of an automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost delivers a noticeably engaging driving experience. The turbocharged three-cylinder engine provides strong acceleration, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking approximately 6.2 seconds. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the short gear ratios contribute to the car’s responsiveness. While the engine’s peak torque is available from a relatively low 1600 rpm, it maintains strong pull throughout the rev range. Compared to lower-powered Fiesta variants, the ST offers a significantly more dynamic experience, with sharper steering and a more controlled suspension setup. The manual transmission, while engaging, requires more driver involvement than an automatic, but this is considered a core element of the ST’s character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fiesta ST came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Key features included sports seats, a unique ST body kit (including a rear spoiler and side skirts), alloy wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension. Interior appointments typically included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob. Optional extras included a navigation system, premium audio system, and various driver assistance features like parking sensors and automatic headlights. The interior design was focused on a sporty aesthetic, with contrasting stitching and ST-specific badging. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most customization options available as individual add-ons rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta ST features a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. The suspension is specifically tuned for performance, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to standard Fiesta models. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The chassis benefits from reinforced components to handle the increased power and stresses of spirited driving.
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 point. It was often compared favorably to rivals like 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 often provided a more refined ride. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance hatchback, 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 choice among enthusiasts seeking an affordable and engaging hot hatch. The YZJA engine, while relatively small, proved to be robust and capable of handling increased power with modifications. On the used car market, well-maintained examples of the Fiesta ST 1.5 EcoBoost hold their value relatively well, reflecting their desirability and reputation for fun-to-drive performance. The Mk8 Fiesta ST represents a high point in Ford’s hot hatch lineage, offering a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and affordability.
