Ford Classic 1.4 TDCi CLXI - Performance Review

Performance 

The Fiesta isn’t any scorcher, but we weren’t expecting much with a modest 68PS power output. The torque figure is also quite modest at 160Nm. What the Fiesta is designed for is drivability and fuel efficiency, and it delivers those in spades. The turbocharger is a standard non-variable unit, but it offers a very linear, progressive build up of torque through the rev range. This drivability makes the Fiesta easy to pilot in traffic, but out on the highway you do feel the need for more power on single-lane highways where quick overtaking is needed. The engine is very refined and even sounds good for a diesel. If you want thrills, look at its petrol sibling instead. The 1.4-litre common-rail unit in the TDCi is rated by the ARAI at 14.4kmpl, but we've heard rumours that it manages to remain above that figure consistently. 

The gear shift has a slightly long throw, but it is a light, positive action and if you're the kind who likes to keep the motor on the boil, you'll enjoy going up and down through the 'box. The hydraulically assisted steering is slightly heavy at parking speeds, but that translates to very good feel and feedback at speed. The wheel weighs up beautifully in the bends and you always know what is happening under the front wheels. Suspension setup is standard for the class: McPherson struts up front and a torsion-beam rear setup. It rides a little harder than the competition, but that only caters to its strongest point: the handling. The Fiesta goes around corners like nothing else in its category - even with the efficiency-oriented MRF ZV2K tyres, it grips well beyond the levels one would expect from a car in this class. We're willing to forgive the Fiesta its slightly stiff ride because what it takes away in comfort it more than gives back in enjoyment to the driver. 

Verdict

The Fiesta has gotten long in the tooth, and the ghost of bad service and expensive spares still continue to haunt Ford India. However, the Figo has shown that the company has managed to improve both its quaity of service as well as spares pricing. In fact, the cost of the clutch assembly for the Fiesta Classic diesel has halved since the time of its launch. However, at the price point one can have much more space with either the Nissan Sunny or Mahindra Verito. If you value fuel efficiency more, the Toyota Etios diesel is a strong contender. If you like driving, both the Fiat Linea and Skoda Rapid offer at least an equal driving experience. It’s hard to make a logical case for the Fiesta Classic with today’s options at its price of Rs 6.6 - 8.6 lakh, ex-showroom Mumbai – if only Ford offered more value, we’re sure that the balance between practicality and driving pleasure would drive more customers to the Fiesta Classic. 

What is the design like? Read about it here.

How is it on the inside? We've got details here.