First look: Fresh face, interior upgrades for Ford Fiesta

FORD’S European-inspired Fiesta gets a new look for 2006 with a revised exterior and fresh new interiors.

Importantly, too, there are a host of cutting-edge technological features to keep the small hatch ahead of the pack.

A first for the car is a controller area network that can circulate specific data throughout the car as required. Much of this technology is working out of the driver’s sight.

There are visible examples such as the duplication of the radio station and tuning information in the instrument cluster and the automatic speed-related volume control. Additionally, the hazard lights will come on automatically under emergency braking above 100km/h.

Visually, the car gets new bumpers and headlights and thicker bodyside moulding. The engine remains a peppy 74kW Duratec 1.6-litre four, mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

Inside, the dashboard has been redesigned and the quality of materials used has been upgraded.

The new range goes on sale in late January, when prices will also be confirmed.