2019 Ford Fiesta Hatchback Performance

For the segment, the Ford Fiesta Hatchback isn't particularly fast, nor is it exceptionally slow. Its 120 hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder is more than enough to get the light-weight Fiesta on the go, regardless of the trim or drivetrain setup. The hatch makes its way from 0 to 60 mph in a segment average of 9.5 seconds before advancing onward to its electronically limited top speed of 121 mph. The Kia Rio, equipped with a similar engine - as well as the Toyota Yaris with a smaller powertrain - perform similarly, but have the advantage of offering greater efficiency. If you're wanting something with a turbo, you'll have to look at the ST variant, which we review separately.

As with most small subcompact vehicles, the Fiesta is available only in a front-wheel-drive configuration with no AWD available. Not only is it safer for a commuter vehicle to have power sent to the front wheels, but it also optimizes fuel economy and keeps running costs low.

With 120 hp and 112 lb-ft, the Fiesta has adequate initial pep for pulling off from a stop or traffic light, but from there on power delivery tapers off quickly and requires a hard working over of the engine to keep things on the boil. Moving up to speed and overtaking on the highway can be a challenge as power builds gradually and the unhurried climb stresses the engine quite notably. Throttle responses are otherwise consistently smooth and suitable for daily driving within city conditions. The default five-speed manual transmission delivers a solid shift action, sliding up or down smoothly and responding promptly throughout driving conditions. Optioning the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission may be a mistake though, as low-speed maneuvers are jarring and the responses indecisive. The auto also detracts from the driver's ability to engage, which is one of the Fiesta's strong points; sticking to the manual augments the Fiesta's fun-to-drive factor and gives added control over the tachometer.

Ford Fiesta mpg returns are average at best, with the manual-equipped Fiesta returning figures of 27/35/30 miles per gallon city/highway/combined. If you're a city-slicker looking for optimal gas mileage, the automatic transmission will better suit your budget, returning 27/37/31 mpg on the EPA cycles. While other countries get a diesel variant, the Fiesta State-side uses regular gasoline. With its 12.4-gallon gas tank filled to the brim, and in varied driving conditions, the Fiesta with automatic gearbox is expected to cover around 384 miles before needing a refill - which is relatively average for this segment. The Toyota Yaris, by contrast, is a fuel-efficient chariot for the eco-warriors, returning 32/40/35 mpg.