Production has begun of the new Fiesta ECOnetic according to Ford Europe, which is all set to deliver improved efficiency. Touted as the company's most fuel efficient and lowest CO2 emitting passenger car of all time, the Fiesta ECOnetic is powered by a 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. Power is rated at 95hp, it boasts 161lb-ft of torque, and achieves 86mp and CO2 emissions of 87g/km.

The demand for fuel efficient cars is strong and is only going to get stronger. Hence why Ford believes that by the end of 2012, half of their European sales will be ECOnetic equipped models and by 2013 this will increase to two-thirds. Highlights of the Ford ECOntic technology include Auto Start/Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Eco Mode, shift indicator light, optimized gear ratios, special engine calibration, lower suspension, under-shield and wheel deflectors, and low-rolling resistance tires. As it rolls off the production line at Ford's Cologne assembly plant, the Fiesta ECOnetic will be available in three- and five-door form with a variety of trims.