The Ford Fiesta VIII, specifically the facelifted model introduced in late 2021, represented a continuation of Ford’s highly successful supermini. The three-door 1.1-liter (75 horsepower) variant, produced from November 2021 until July 2023, served as an entry point into the Mk8 Fiesta range. Positioned as the most affordable and fuel-efficient option, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality over outright performance. This model was part of the broader Mk8 Fiesta lineup, built on the B2E platform, and aimed at the European market where the three-door body style remained popular. It was discontinued along with the Fiesta line in mid-2023 as Ford shifted focus to larger, more profitable vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VIII (Mk8, facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2021 |
| End of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.5-6.8 l/100 km (36.2 – 34.6 US mpg, 43.5 – 41.5 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.0-5.4 l/100 km (47 – 43.6 US mpg, 56.5 – 52.3 UK mpg, 20 – 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.5-5.0 l/100 km (52.3 – 47 US mpg, 62.8 – 56.5 UK mpg, 22.2 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.7-6.1 l/100 km (41.3 – 38.6 US mpg, 49.6 – 46.3 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.4 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.3-5.7 l/100 km (44.4 – 41.3 US mpg, 53.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 120-129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.3 kg/Hp, 70.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 102.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3500 rpm (81.13 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | FSJA |
| Engine displacement | 1084 cm3 (66.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1069 kg (2356.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1515 kg (3340 lbs.) |
| Max load | 446 kg (983.26 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 292 l (10.31 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) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4048 mm (159.37 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 | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2493 mm (98.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 847 mm (33.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 708 mm (27.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 262×23 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 202.8 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Fiesta Mk8, launched in 2017 and facelifted in 2021, continued the Fiesta’s legacy as one of Europe’s best-selling superminis. The three-door version, while declining in popularity, remained available for those seeking a more sporty and compact aesthetic. The 1.1-liter 75 horsepower engine, designated FSJA, was introduced with the facelift and represented the base engine option. This variant was designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers and those primarily using the car for urban commuting. It occupied the lowest rung of the Fiesta Mk8 ladder, sitting below the 1.0 EcoBoost variants (with varying power outputs) and the higher-specification trims.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the Ford 1.1-liter Duratec three-cylinder petrol engine, internally coded FSJA. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, utilizing multi-point fuel injection. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency and low emissions. Unlike the more sophisticated EcoBoost engines in the range, the 1.1 lacks turbocharging or direct injection. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The gearbox’s ratios are geared towards maximizing fuel economy rather than providing rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.1-liter Fiesta is not a performance-oriented vehicle. With 75 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque, acceleration is modest, taking approximately 14.7 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine feels strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The five-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, but frequent downshifts are required for overtaking or maintaining speed on hills. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface reasonably well. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost models, the 1.1 feels significantly less responsive, but it offers a smoother and more predictable power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1-liter Fiesta typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power-assisted steering, ABS brakes, front airbags, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior trim was functional and durable, with cloth upholstery and plastic dashboard components. Higher trim levels, such as Trend or Titanium, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and more sophisticated interior trim. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk8 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure for the base model. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing light and precise steering feel. The relatively light weight of the 1.1-liter variant (approximately 1069 kg) contributes to its agility and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.1-liter Fiesta was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost variants, the 1.1 offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance and refinement. The 1.0 EcoBoost engines, while more expensive, provided a significantly more engaging driving experience. The 1.1’s simplicity also translated to potentially lower maintenance costs, as it lacked the complex technology of the EcoBoost engines.
Legacy
The 1.1-liter Fiesta Mk8, while not the most exciting variant in the range, proved to be a reliable and economical choice for many buyers. The FSJA engine, while simple in design, is generally considered to be durable and relatively trouble-free. On the used car market, these models represent an affordable entry point into Fiesta ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and the basic level of equipment. The discontinuation of the Fiesta line in 2023 has begun to increase the value of well-maintained examples, particularly those with low mileage.
