Ford tweaks the Fiesta

Ford has made a series of improvements to Britain's best selling car, the Fiesta.

The efficiency of the fuel-saving ECOnetic models, which are fitted with 1.6-litre diesel engines, has been increased, and these now emit 95g/km of CO2 according to official tests, a reduction of 3g/km. Combined cycle fuel consumption is now 75.8mpg. One important change is that the ECOnetic specification is now available in conjunction not only with the basic Edge version but also in combination with the plusher Zetec and Titanium trim levels. This move reflects a growing belief that customers who want to drive a car with good fuel economy and low emissions aren't necessarily looking for a hair-shirt experience, and follows similar changes to the Focus and Mondeo ECOnetic ranges.

Ford is also offering DAB radio as an option on all Fiestas, and fitting it as standard to the top-of-the range Titanium. Fiesta prices now range from £9,495 to £16,245 – ECOnetic prices start at £14,445.

Sportier tastes are catered for with a new Metal limited edition model, which has a 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 134 horsepower and a special black colour scheme. Only 1,000 will be built. Ford has also signalled its intention to introduce a new, even quicker, ST version of the Fiesta by showing the 180 horsepower Fiesta ST Concept at this month's Frankfurt motor show.